Golden Throne Trail

Golden Throne Trail leads hikers on a moderately strenuous journey through Capitol Reef canyon country to the base of a massive yellow Navajo Sandstone dome that glows brilliantly in sunlight. The trail departs from the Capitol Gorge parking area and climbs steadily through winding canyon passages and open slickrock benches. As elevation is gained, the surrounding landscape opens up to reveal the layered geology of the Waterpocket Fold and dramatic views back toward the historic pioneer orchards of the Fruita area. The Golden Throne itself is a commanding formation, its cross-bedded Navajo Sandstone displaying sweeping petrified dune patterns that span an enormous face of cream and gold rock. Though the trail ends before actually reaching the throne summit, the views from the base and surrounding viewpoints are spectacular. Capitol Dome and surrounding formations appear as companions in the broader landscape. On clear days, glimpses of the remote Cathedral Valley to the north hint at even more dramatic terrain beyond. The trail surface involves some route-finding over slickrock and occasional cairn-following. Carry plenty of water and sun protection, as shade is scarce. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the most dramatic lighting on the sandstone. This trail offers a wonderful combination of canyon intimacy and broad panoramic views in a relatively compact outing.