| Cathedral Gorge, Nevada |
 Trail Name:Juniper Draw Summary: |
| Trail Description |
| Cathedral Gorge is a narrow valley surrounded by cliffs of soft, betonite clay eroded into spires, fins and other wonderful formations.
From the picnic area, the trail leads for 0.5 through sagebrush to the ‘caves’ – narrow canyons between huge fins that are ideal for exploring. The trail continues through the gorge, reaching a junction after a short distance. The 1-mile spur to the right takes you through a side canyon with high rock walls to steps that lead up to Miller Point, an overlook of the dramatic surrounding canyons (Miller Point is also accessible by road). Retrace your steps to rejoin the loop trail and continue through the upper gorge. This remote place is inaccessible by road and therefore quiet and peaceful. There are close up views of the buff-colored cliffs and formations as you proceed through the sagebrush desert. Animal tracks – including snakes and coyote – can be spotted along the way. Although level, the desert trail is sandy and can be hard going, particularly in the heat. In several places you follow dried washes rather than a defined trail, but the way is marked. Veering left to loop out of the upper gorge, the trail eventually leads back to the campground, just a short distance from your starting point at the picnic area. |
| FACT FILE |
| Location: Cathedral Gorge State Park, near Panaca, just north of the intersection of US 93 and Route 319 in east Nevada. Entrance fee charged.
Directions: From Las Vegas, take I-15 north for 21 miles, then 167 miles north on US 93. Turn left off the 93 into the State Park. Trailhead: Proceed past the entrance station to where the road forks. Take the left fork, ignore the left turning to the campground, and continue on to the picnic area. Length: 6 miles / 9.6 km Trail Type: Loop Elevation Change: Negligible Duration: 4 hours Trail Condition: Mostly well defined, sandy trail. Some sections follow marked desert washes. Features: Desert canyon, formations. Climate: Extremely hot in summer, cold in winter. Accommodation: Camping in the State Park. Lodging available in Caliente, 15 miles to the south, and Pioche, 10 miles to the north. Trail Notes: There is no shade along the trail – avoid hiking at mid-day in summer. |
Popularity: 8% [?]