Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Guide
Explore a Land of Endless Discovery: Grand Staircase-Escalante Guide
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a vast and rugged landscape in southern Utah, beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Spanning nearly 1.9 million acres, this monument is a geological wonderland, showcasing towering cliffs, deep canyons, winding slot canyons, and ancient petrified forests. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale and raw beauty of this untamed wilderness. Designated as a national monument in 1996, Grand Staircase-Escalante is a relatively recent addition to the national park system. Its name reflects the "Grand Staircase," a series of colorful cliffs that rise in steps from the Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon, and the Escalante River, which carved its way through the landscape over millions of years. The area is rich in paleontological resources, with significant dinosaur fossils discovered within its boundaries, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric past. The monument also holds cultural significance, with evidence of Native American settlements dating back thousands of years. Visitors to Grand Staircase-Escalante can enjoy a wide range of activities. Hiking is a popular pursuit, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging multi-day backpacking trips. Explore the slot canyons, marvel at the towering sandstone formations, and discover hidden waterfalls. Camping is permitted in designated areas, allowing you to immerse yourself in the solitude of the desert. Scenic drives along the Burr Trail and Hole-in-the-Rock Road offer breathtaking views of the landscape. Remember to check weather conditions and obtain necessary permits before embarking on any adventure. While the area doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, nearby towns like Escalante and Boulder offer restaurants serving hearty American fare and local specialties.
Transportation
The monument is primarily accessed by car. Scenic Byway 12 (Utah State Route 12) runs through the heart of the monument, providing access to many trailheads and viewpoints. Hole-in-the-Rock Road, a 62-mile unpaved road, offers access to more remote areas, but requires a high-clearance vehicle and careful planning. Burr Trail Road is another scenic route, partially paved and partially unpaved, that traverses the monument. There is no public transportation within the monument itself.