Lodging at Grand Staircase National Monument

Nestled in southwest Utah, the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument unfolds as a majestic landscape, beckoning adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. This sprawling monument, encompassing nearly 200 million acres, holds the distinction of being the largest in the United States. Remarkably, this geological wonderland remained unmapped until recently, making it the last charted region in the contiguous United States. Grand Staircase-Escalante is part of the Grand Circle, a collection of breathtaking national parks including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and the Grand Canyon.

The monument's diverse landscape, with its impressive plateaus, sprawling canyons, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, is a hiker's and canyoneer's dream. Endless trails lead you through breathtaking vistas, offering a glimpse into millions of years of geological history. The monument has yielded a treasure trove of scientific discoveries, including numerous dinosaur fossils exceeding 75 million years old. In fact, an entirely new dinosaur species was unearthed here in 2006!

Grand Staircase-Escalante's rich tapestry extends beyond paleontology. Evidence of Puebloan people, Mormon settlements, and cattle ranchers paints a picture of the human story woven into this landscape. Officially designated a national monument by President Bill Clinton in 1996, Grand Staircase-Escalante continues to reveal its secrets to this day.

The monument can be broadly divided into three geographic sections: the Grand Staircase, Kaiparowits Plateau, and the Canyons of Escalante. Each region offers unique experiences.

• The Grand Staircase: Aptly named for its series of descending plateaus, this section boasts colorful cliffs and iconic slot canyons like Paria Canyon, Buckskin Gulch, and Wire Pass.

• Kaiparowits Plateau: Sitting at a staggering 9,000 feet, this remote region is a haven for archaeological discoveries. Explore vast landscapes like Lake Pasture, Death Ridge, and Fiftymile Creek.

• The Canyons of Escalante: Sculpted by the Escalante River over millions of years, this section features narrow canyons, towering walls, and stunning grottoes. Hike through Death Hollow, Coyote Gulch, or Calf Creek, and be mesmerized by the raw beauty of this rugged paradise.

Beyond hiking and canyoneering, Grand Staircase-Escalante offers a variety of activities. Explore the backcountry on ATVs, cast a line in search of fish, or embark on a horseback riding adventure. For those seeking a challenge, mountain climbing opportunities await.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument promises an unforgettable experience for adventurers and history buffs alike. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and abundant recreational activities, this hidden gem in southern Utah is waiting to be explored. So, lace up your boots, grab your sense of adventure, and prepare to be captivated by the grandeur of the Grand Staircase-Escalante.