Photos in Slide Show:
- Twentyfive Mile Canyon
- Harris Wash
- Twentyfive Mile Canyon
- Escalante River
- Escalante River
The Escalante River is the primary waterway of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The river and its many winding tributary washes (which are usually dry) offer scenery and adventure. There are many miles of colorful sheer-walled canyons, natural rock bridges and arches, slot canyons, petrified wood, Indian ruins, and cowboy artifacts. Because the river is almost always very shallow, many extensive backpacking and camping trips are possible. For more details, visit the official Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument website.
Photo Tip: Hiking along the Escalante River rates as one of the best extended backpacking trips in Canyon Country. It is a more intimate experience than the Grand Canyon which tends to overwhelm with its size. Campsites can be found throughout the length of the canyon and water is readily available. Treat all water before drinking. The best time to visit would be from late March to June or September/October. While most of the Escalante River is slow and shallow, water depth may be considerably higher during spring runoff or after a thunderstorm. The river must be crossed many times so proper footwear and a walking stick would be recommended.
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