escalante national monument

We were recommended to visit this area on our road trip and weren't really sure what the NM was, at the visitor centre it was explained it is just a huge area that has been zoned as NM to protect it, it covers a huge area. To visit a lot of it you need an off road vehicle (and good weather). The road that leads to the famous slot canyons is treacherous (don't go if raining) and our suspension took a battering. Apparently they don't want to develop the facilities and entrance. The idea is that it stays an untamed land (the last discovered place in the US mainland). Make sure you visit the information centres before exploring as a lot of it is dangerous and people die every year according to the ranger.The HWY that passes through this area is an unbelievable drive - so scenic.

We didn't have nearly enough time to explore this wonderful area but what we did see was absolutely great. This huge national monument has attractions for all levels of hikers and drivers. We will be back and spend at least a week there.

Few people around but everyone friendly. Nice in fall not to be so hot. Bring water and munchies. And Camera.

Well, the weather disturbed our hikes, Zebra Slot was drowned. Devils Garden was ok. Maybe we'll be back in Spring....

I have been here before with my family and there is tons of hiking and adventure. This time, I was with my mom. We didn't do much hiking, but there is so much natural beauty to see. We traveled in October and I was actually surprised how many older couples we encountered. Southern Utah is a location for young and old alike. Even if you can't do the hiking into the locations, there is still plenty of viewing and history for all ages. There are pullouts everywhere to marvel at sights. We met many other older couples and even a few on their own. Route 12 is a must all on it's own.

We really enjoyed the monument. We hiked Calf Creek Falls, and 2 slot canyons: Peekaboo and Spooky. It's a beautiful part of the country.

The visitor center was closed when we came by, but the visitor center in Escalante was very helpful.

Rent a UTV and travel for hours in beautiful, isolated wilderness. We spent all dsy in the back country on a rented utv with a gps and loved it. Saw three people the entire day. Lots of ruins. Lots of wilderness and no crowds. Wonderful.

In 2 miles up Escalante River from the confluence of Calf Creek bridge, you'll see 2 arches, petroglyphs, granaries, and a spring where you can fill up your water bottle safely. You'll cross Escalante River many times, so bring your water shoes.

An easy trip is to Grosvenor Arch, about 13 miles down a graded dirt road starting at Kodachrome Basin State Park. The Arch has a small parking area. Peekaboo & Spooky Gulches are somewhat challenging - the former with significant climbing; the latter with tight (10-12 inches wide in spots) areas and scrambling.

I kinda hate to tell about this as it'll only attract more to come...a very cool slot canyon at mile 11 out of Boulder, UT...a beautiful drive along a Mesa for the first 25 miles...and a back door to Capitol Reef National Park if you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle

We enjoyed this region and the beautiful landscapes. Also the visitors centers where we found a lot of information.

Nature in the area is absolutely splendid. Awesome, grand, superb, spectacular, incredible. Mother nature at it's very best. Wow. I can write another 1000 characters to convince you, but What more is there to say ?

Lots to do and see, go to the visitor center in the middle of town and they will help you get going!

I've traveled the West a lot but had never been through Escalante....and I'm certainly glad I did. Highway 12 runs through the length of the Monument/Park. I went in mid July expecting blistering temperatures but was surprised at how cool it was. Thunderstorms in the distance probably cooled the region but they made for spectacular photos. There wasn't much traffic so the drive was very enjoyable and allowed me to stop frequently and soak up the views. Felt good on my soul!