Juniper Draw Loop

The Juniper Draw Loop offers an intimate and accessible exploration of Cathedral Gorge State Park's remarkable clay formations in southeastern Nevada. This 1.5-mile loop is an excellent choice for families, casual hikers, or those who want to experience the park's signature geological features without committing to a longer route.

The trail winds through a series of narrow slot canyon passages carved into the park's distinctive bentonite clay, allowing hikers to squeeze between towering walls of sculpted earth just wide enough for one person to pass. These passages create a sense of exploration and discovery, with each turn revealing new shapes and textures in the pale clay walls. Scattered juniper trees provide occasional shade and a pleasant scent amid the dry desert landscape.

The formations along this loop were created over millions of years as ancient lake bed sediments were exposed and eroded by wind and rain, resulting in a landscape unlike almost anywhere else in the American West. With 200 feet of elevation gain on a well-maintained path, the Juniper Draw Loop is accessible to hikers of all ages and abilities. The $10 per vehicle park entry fee applies. Leashed dogs are permitted on this trail. Visitors should avoid the trail during or after heavy rain, as the clay surface can become extremely slippery and the soft walls vulnerable to damage.