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Canyons Washed in Colors Nowhere But Here Space Rock Wind Water

Hiking: Perhaps the best way to experience the diverse terrain of the Monument is to walk through it. Even though developed trails are nearly nonexistent, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of miles of outstanding hiking routes found in Escalante Canyons, the upper Paria drainage, and other areas. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-October) are usually the ideal times to hike or backpack. A good map and route finding abilities are a must. Self register at established trailheads or obtain a free backpacking permit at the Interagency Office if backpacking in the Escalante region. Please leave no trace of your passing.

Scenic Drives: Many of the principal roads to and through the Monument have been designated scenic back ways. Highway 12 is widely recognized as one of the most scenic drives in the United States. Highway 89,along the southern boundary of the Monument between Kanab and Big Water offers outstanding views of the Vermilion Cliffs and the Kaiparowits Plateau. Six designated Back Country back ways along more primitive secondary roads provide an off-the-beaten-path adventure into the Monument.

Camping: Two small, modestly developed campgrounds are open year-round on a first-come, first served basis in the Monument. Calf creek (13 sites) next to Highway 12 and Deer Creek (5 sites) along the Burr Trail have picnic tables, grills, and toilets. Water is available spring through fall at Calf Creek only. Nearby state parks, national forests, and commercial campgrounds in neighboring communities provide additional campground options. Back-country camping at undeveloped campsites is allowed at certain areas of the Monument. Please observe minimum impact camping techniques to preserve the land. Camp at previously used sites,cook with a camp stove rather than an open fire, and locate your camp at least 300 feet from springs and other scant water sources. Proper disposal of human waste and packing out what you pack in will help to keep the back country clean.

Mountain Biking: Several secondary roads such as the Hole-in-the-Rock, Burr Trail, Cottonwood Canyon, the Wolverine Loop, and the Paria Valley roads offer good mountain biking routes, both long and short. Please do not ride cross-country or alone, and take the same precautions as if you were hiking.

Hunting and Fishing: Hunting and fishing are traditional uses of the Monument's lands and they will remain so under the management of the State of Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Please inquire locally for seasons, licenses, and other regulations.

4WD Roads: An extensive network of primitive 4WD vehicle routes provide access to much of the Monument's back country. Please stay on established routes. Some roads may be closed for the protection of resources: please obey these closures. Respect private property and lands: leave gated open or closed as you find them.

Preserve The Past: Whether you drive or hike the back country, please remember that, long before the arrival of Europeans. people have lived over much of the Southwest. Signs of these ancient cultures are found within the Monument in the form of ruins, petroglyphs, and potsherds and to the native peoples of the Southwest these sites have significance. Admire the ruins if you come across one, marvel at those long-gone people who lived in an often inhospitable environment, ponder our common humanity-but leave everything where it is. To do otherwise is not only disrespectful but is also against the law.

Guided Trips: Given the remote, undeveloped nature of the Monument, guided adventures led by seasoned professional outfitters may be the best way for many to experience the Grand Staircase-Escalante. Many types of tours and activities, including hunting and fishing, bicycle treks, vehicle tours, and back-country hiking trips, are offered by local outfitters and guides. A list of permitted outfitters is available from the Bureau of Land Management.