Bentonite Hills
Colorful mudstone hills on the southern section of the Cathedral Valley Loop. Purple, grey, and red bands rise and fall like Martian terrain, making it a popular photo spot.
The Bentonite Hills were formed by the weathering of Jurassic Morrison Formation mudstone. The colored bands look most vivid under low-angle light, earning the area the nickname “Martian landscape.” The hills are located on Hartnet Road, the southern section of the Cathedral Valley Loop, near a river crossing, and the route requires a high-clearance vehicle. If you would rather not ford the Fremont River, you can go around via the Caineville side. Photograph only from the road and trails, and do not step on the soft mud surfaces. There are no facilities, and muddy clay roads are extremely difficult after rain.
Opening hours
Open all day (subject to road conditions)
Nearby sights
- Behunin Cabin
- Grand Wash
- Cathedral Valley
- Rim Overlook & Navajo Knobs Trail
- Hickman Bridge
- Petroglyph Panel
- Cassidy Arch
- Fruita Schoolhouse