The Bentonite Hills are located east of Capitol Reef National Park and west of Hanksville, Utah, accessible via UT-24E. From UT-24, you'll turn onto a rough dirt road for about 3 miles to reach the most colorful areas. +1

A high-clearance, 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended due to the unpaved, rough roads and potential water crossings. While some visitors have managed with AWD or lifted Subarus, a dedicated 4x4 offers the most security.

No, the road leading to the Bentonite Hills is unpaved and can be rough. It requires careful navigation, especially after the initial river crossing where high clearance is mandatory.

Bentonite Hills are located on the eastern side of Capitol Reef National Park, often accessed via the Cathedral Valley Loop. This loop is an off-road drive and not part of the main scenic drive within the park. +1

There is no public transportation directly to the Bentonite Hills. You will need your own vehicle, or you can book a tour with a local adventure company.

Bentonite Hills are located outside the main fee area of Capitol Reef National Park, and generally do not require an entrance fee. However, always check the official Capitol Reef National Park website for any updated information or specific access requirements.

Typically, no specific permits are required for day-use visits to the Bentonite Hills. However, if you plan any overnight stays or specific activities, it's best to confirm with the local BLM or National Park Service.

Bentonite Hills are accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, road conditions can vary significantly with weather, so it's advisable to check local conditions before your visit.

As Bentonite Hills are often considered an area near Capitol Reef National Park rather than within its main fee zone, there is usually no direct entrance fee. However, if accessing via the Cathedral Valley Loop within the park, standard park entrance fees may apply.

While technically accessible, visiting Bentonite Hills at night is not recommended due to the challenging off-road conditions and lack of lighting. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to appreciate the landscape.

The best times for photography are during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – when the light creates dramatic shadows and enhances the vibrant colors of the hills.

While not essential, a drone can provide stunning aerial perspectives of the unique landscape. If using a drone, be prepared with a high ND filter (like ND 256) for daytime shooting to manage intense light.

For capturing the vibrant colors, consider shooting in RAW format to allow for post-processing adjustments. Using a polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance saturation.

The entire area offers unique photographic opportunities. Driving the Cathedral Valley Loop provides access to various overlooks, including the Bentonite Hills themselves, offering different angles and perspectives.

Be mindful of the delicate soil and terrain. Stick to designated paths where possible and avoid disturbing the landscape. The colors can appear muted without the right light, so timing is crucial.

Hiking at Bentonite Hills involves exploring the soft, banded hills. The terrain is more like hard sand than rocky, and you can wander among the colorful formations.

While visually stunning, the journey to Bentonite Hills requires a capable vehicle and can be challenging. Families with young children might find the drive and terrain demanding, but older children may enjoy the unique landscape.

Pack plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and wear sturdy closed-toe shoes. A first-aid kit and a reliable navigation device are also recommended.

There are no developed facilities such as restrooms or visitor centers directly at the Bentonite Hills. Be prepared to be self-sufficient.

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the Bentonite Hills and enjoy the drive, especially if you are doing the Cathedral Valley Loop. This allows time for photography and soaking in the unique scenery.