Cathedral Gorge
The Cathedral
Cathedral Gorge State Park, NV
Images and location summary by Tim Wier
Trail Difficulty - EASY
The shot was taken in the parking area for the Moon Caves.
GPS Coordinates & Elevation
4,887 Ft. Elevation
Photography Tips
This shot is fairly straightforward. Take your time positioning yourself at the right angle to capture the Cathedral, ensuring it stands out against the surrounding hills.
From late fall to early spring, the setting sun will illuminate the Cathedral formation beautifully. However, if you photograph during the last moments of sunset, the light on the rocks may become too intense and overexposed. I recommend waiting until after the sun has set and capturing your shot a few minutes later, when the reflective light can enhance the scene. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference
Directions
CLICK HERE to get driving directions to the Moon Caves at Cathedral Gorge State Park
From Las Vegas, NV - Drive on I-15 north for about 21 miles until you see an exit for US-93. Take US-93 for 142 miles until you come to the small town of Panaca, NV. Once in Panaca, continue approximately 1 mile north on US-93, where you will see the entrance to Cathedral Gorge State Park.
From Panaca, NV - Drive on US-93 for approximately 1 mile, where you will see the entrance to Cathedral Gorge State Park.
Once you turn off Cathedral Gorge State Park, continue for about 1/2 mile, where you will see the information area with a kiosk. After paying the entrance fee, continue for about .9 miles, where you will see a small dirt parking area for the Moon Caves. The location of the shot is from the dirt parking area.
Google Earth
EXIF Data
Focal Length – 36 mm
Exposure – 1.3 sec @ f 11.0
ISO – 100
Date – April 9th
Time – 7:11 pm (4 minutes after sunset)
Best Time of Day to Shoot
This location is best photographed 3 to 15 minutes after SUNSET.
The image above was taken at 7:11 pm on a day when the sunset was at 7:07 pm.
Best Time of Year
This location can be photographed at any time of year. However, during late fall, winter, and early spring, the sun will illuminate the formation at sunset.
During the summer months, the sunset is blocked by a large hill to the northwest.
Lens(es) Needed
The shot above was taken at 35mm.
Birds-Eye View From Google Earth Pro
Permits
The Moon Caves are located in the Cathedral Gorge State Park. The day-use fee is $5.00 per vehicle.
Direction of the Shot
The direction of the shot is north, around 350°.
Equipment Needed
All you need is a sturdy tripod.
Number of Other Photographers to Expect
The Cathedral Gorge State Park has a modest number of visitors. At this location at sunset, you will most likely be the only person there.
Weather
Cell Service
Cell service is good in this area.
Lodging & Camping
Area Guides and Workshops
None