Escalante

Gateway town to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, with Scenic Byway 12, slot canyons and Lower Calf Creek Falls.

Escalante is a small town of about 800 people in southern Utah, on Scenic Byway 12, often called one of America's most beautiful roads, and it's the main northern gateway to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Covering about 7,600 sq km and stretching southeast from Bryce Canyon all the way to Lake Powell, the monument was one of the last wilderness areas in the contiguous United States to be mapped, and is famous for its slot canyons, slickrock, arches and natural bridges. There are three main routes to explore. First, Highway 12: heading east you pass Head of the Rocks Overlook, Lower Calf Creek Falls, Upper Calf Creek Falls, the Hogback and Anasazi State Park Museum in the town of Boulder. Second, Hole-in-the-Rock Road, a dirt road running south past Devils Garden, Zebra Slot Canyon, Peek-a-boo and Spooky slot canyons and Dance Hall Rock, ending at the pioneers' Hole-in-the-Rock site and Coyote Gulch. Third, to the west, Kodachrome Basin State Park and Grosvenor Arch off Cottonwood Canyon Road. In summer and fall you can also drive the gravel Hell's Backbone Road. The best seasons are Apr–May and Sep–Oct; Jul–Sep brings frequent afternoon thunderstorms and a deadly flash-flood risk in slot canyons, so always check the weather and road conditions at the visitor center before setting out. Dirt roads become difficult after rain, and going deep along Hole-in-the-Rock Road requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. The town has motels, campgrounds and a few restaurants. Plan on 2–4 days, and carry plenty of fuel and water.

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