Moon Caves (1A I)

Location: Cathedral Gorge State Park, NV
Rating: Basic Slot Canyon Hiking 1A I
Length: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Mileage: ~0.2 to 1 mile depending on explored sections
Longest Rappel: None
Start: Cathedral Gorge State Park trailheads
End: Loop and out and back options
Permits: Nevada State Park entrance fee required
Wetsuit: Not needed
Shuttle: No

Overview: The Moon Caves are a network of short and narrow slot canyon passages located within Cathedral Gorge State Park in southeastern Nevada. Despite the name, these are not traditional underground caves but rather sculpted clay and bentonite slot canyons carved into soft sedimentary formations.

The area features winding corridors, small natural chambers, tight passageways, and dramatic tower formations that create a maze like canyon experience. The soft beige walls and unusual formations give the area an almost otherworldly appearance.

The Moon Caves are best suited for casual exploration, photography, families, and visitors looking for a short but visually unique slot canyon experience without technical obstacles.

Approach:From Cedar City UT, travel west on UT 56 toward Panaca, Nevada. Continue south on US 93 to Cathedral Gorge State Park. Within the park, several short trails provide access to the Moon Caves, Cathedral Caves, and Canyon Caves areas.

The park includes:

• Visitor center
• Campground
• Picnic areas
• Developed trails and parking

Route Description: The Moon Caves consist of short interconnected slot passages and clay corridors that can be explored through easy hiking and mild scrambling. Most routes are short and suitable for casual visitors, though some narrow passages may require squeezing through confined spaces.

Water Conditions: The Moon Caves are typically dry. The bentonite clay becomes extremely slick and fragile when wet, and portions of the canyon may become unsafe or damaged after rain. Flash flooding is possible despite the short nature of the slots.

Exit: Multiple short loop and out and back routes return to the main trail system and parking areas within Cathedral Gorge State Park.

The Moon Caves provide one of the more accessible and family friendly slot canyon experiences in the Southwest while still showcasing dramatic narrow canyon scenery. Nearby sections including Cathedral Caves and Canyon Caves offer additional narrow canyon exploration with similar terrain and formations.