Gypsum Sinkhole

Overview

A quick stop with big wow-factor, the Gypsum Sinkhole drops roughly 200 feet straight down and spans about 50 feet across. It sits in the remote Cathedral Valley district, reached by backcountry roads and a short, easy out-and-back from a spur. Expect solitude and stark desert views with a dramatic geological punch.

How It Formed

Groundwater dissolved a buried mass of gypsum, causing the overlying rock to collapse and leave today’s steep-sided pit. It’s a textbook gypsum-dissolution collapse feature—simple story, spectacular result.

What You’ll See

You’ll walk a short path to the rim for a look into a nearly vertical-sided hole. It’s deep, dark, and tough to photograph in full, which only adds to its eerie appeal. The surroundings are classic Cathedral Valley: wide skies, colorful strata, and few people.

Getting There

Access is via Cathedral Valley’s backcountry roads. A high-clearance vehicle is required, and conditions can turn these roads impassable when wet. Check road and weather updates before committing. Once there, a brief, easy walk leads from the spur to the rim.

Safety & Rules

Rim rock is soft and unstable—stay well back from the edge. There are no barriers. Drones are prohibited in national parks. If you bring a pet, follow standard park B.A.R.K. rules. Treat this as a self-sufficient stop with no services.

Amenities

None on-site. No restrooms, water, food, or shade structures. Plan and pack accordingly. A small parking spot and informal trail start serve the short walk to the rim.

Best Time to Visit

Go when roads are dry; avoid trips after rain or storms. Crowds are typically light at any time due to the area’s remoteness. Most travelers fold this into a broader Cathedral Valley tour rather than making it a standalone destination.

Photography Tips

The depth and steep walls make it tricky to capture. A wide-angle perspective helps, but prioritize footing and keep a safe distance from the rim.