These are some of the top activities Grand Staircase/Escalante National Monument has to offer.
Hiking
Embrace the thrill of Spooky Gulch in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument! This short but challenging adventure isn't for the claustrophobic. Navigate narrow sandstone passageways sculpted by millions of years of water erosion. Sunlight filters through, creating an eerie yet beautiful ambiance. Keep an eye out for unique rock formations and a sense of awe as you wind your way through this slot canyon. While the hike is short, the memories of Spooky Gulch's dramatic landscape and tight squeezes will linger long after you emerge.
Photography
Capture the cascading beauty of Upper Calf Creek Falls in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument! This hidden gem awaits after a moderate hike through scenic canyons. Set up your camera to capture the 120-foot waterfall plunging into a turquoise pool surrounded by lush vegetation. Experiment with different angles to showcase the power of the cascading water or zoom in on the intricate details of the moss-covered rocks. Early morning or late afternoon light will bathe the scene in soft hues, creating truly magical photo opportunities. Don't forget to snap a celebratory shot after your adventure to commemorate your journey to this secluded wonder.
Stargazing
Escape from light pollution and immerse yourself in a breathtaking night sky. With minimal interference, millions of stars come alive, blanketing the darkness in a mesmerizing display. The Milky Way stretches across the horizon like a luminous river, while planets like Jupiter and Saturn shine brightly. Grand Staircase-Escalante promises an unforgettable stargazing experience, leaving you feeling humbled and connected to the vastness of the universe.
Paleontology
Embark on a journey through time on the Kaiparowits Plateau, a treasure trove of fossils within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. This 50-mile-long ridge boasts some of the world's richest paleontological resources. Hike alongside paleontologists or volunteers, keeping a keen eye out for fossilized bones embedded in the colorful rock formations. The Kaiparowits Plateau has yielded an incredible diversity of dinosaur remains, from towering longnecks to monstrous theropods. Recent discoveries even include tiny dinosaur eggs, offering a glimpse into the park's prehistoric past. Unearth the secrets of the ancient world and marvel at the sheer abundance of fossils preserved on the Kaiparowits Plateau. While exploring Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, remember to treat fossils and carvings with respect as irreplaceable treasures, leaving them for future visitors to enjoy.
Scenic Drive
Cruise along UT-12, also known as "A Scenic Byway," and witness the unfolding beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. This scenic route, stretching east to west, acts as your gateway to dramatic landscapes. As you wind through canyons and climb over mountain passes, witness a kaleidoscope of colorful rock formations, towering cliffs, and verdant valleys. Pull over at designated viewpoints to soak in panoramic vistas and access trailheads for further exploration. UT-12 isn't just a drive; it's a front-row seat to the monument's geological wonders, leaving you breathless at every turn.
Technical Canyoneering
Embark on a challenging adventure for experienced canyoners at Coyote Gulch Narrows in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Not for the faint of heart, this technical descent requires rappelling expertise and proper gear. Navigate through narrow slots carved by millennia of water, where sunlight filters through, creating an ethereal ambiance. Downclimb sections, rappel over waterfalls and immerse yourself in the sculpted beauty of the canyon. While the route is demanding, the reward is an unparalleled exploration into the heart of the monument's remote wilderness. Remember, permits and proper planning are crucial for a safe and unforgettable technical canyoneering experience at Coyote Gulch Narrows.
Kodachrome Basin State Park
Nestled near the eastern border of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Kodachrome Basin State Park is a photographer's paradise. This pocket-sized park boasts a wonderland of colorful sandstone pillars, crimson cliffs, and towering spires, all bathed in a warm desert glow. Hike or bike along scenic trails, capturing the ever-changing light on the landscape. Kodachrome Basin offers a unique contrast to the vastness of the Escalante monument, with its intimate beauty and abundance of photographic opportunities. Don't forget your camera. Kodachrome Basin is sure to inspire your inner photographer.