Best of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument

Kodachrome Basin State Park [1]: Strange-looking rock pillars or “sand pipes” are the attraction at this state park on the edge of the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. Hiking trails and a campground make this a good base for exploring Cottonwood Canyon Road south into the monument

Grosvenor Arch [2]: In a remote, yet drivable, location off Cottonwood Canyon Road lies the magnificent Grosvenor Arch (actually two sandstone arches). Photographers, including those from a National Geographic expedition in the 1940s, have been invariably drawn to it.

Anasazi State Park [3]: In addition to the good indoor exhibits at this park’s museum, there’s an excavated Anasazi village out back displaying a wide range of Anasazi building styles. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the Anasazi.

Burr Trail Road [4]: From its start in Boulder, through the astounding Long Canyon, to views of Waterpocket Fold, the Circle Cliffs, and distant mountains, Burr Trail Road is a treat to drive. Don’t expect a fast trip; if the weather has been wet, inquire about the condition of the unpaved section.

Lower Calf Creek Falls [5]: Easy enough for families, accessible with a regular car, and offering a different highlight every half mile or so, this hike is definitely worth taking. Expect to see desert varnish, beaver ponds, Native American ruins, pictographs, and the misty 126-foot-high Lower Calf Creek Falls.

Dry Fork of Coyote Gulch [6]: To explore the enchanting slot canyons of this area, it’s necessary to drive 26 miles along the bumpy dirt Hole-in-the-Rock Road. If you and your vehicle are up for such a drive, don’t miss it! The slot canyons are easy enough for reasonably fit people to explore, and they’ll give you a taste of canyoneering.