Capitol Reef National Park

Escalante is a small ranching town located along Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 and is home to just 850 residents. The town’s unique charm, vast landscapes, and proximity to canyons, rock formations, and other natural wonders make it ideal for travelers visiting Southern Utah.

This remote part of Utah is one of the most beautiful places in the state.

What Makes The Grand Staircase Escalante Unique?

The Grand Staircase Escalante is remote and less explored than all other national parks and monuments in Southern Utah. It offers some of the most breathtaking views of the state's colorful sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons. Escalante is also well known for its prehistoric rock formations and decades-old abandoned movie sets.

The remote nature of The Grand Staircase and the sun-drenched Utahn backcountry means you will be off-grid when exploring these wonders.

Pro Tip: Looking for the best way to explore Escalante and the Grand Staircase? Our favorite spots are the slot canyons. You can explore them on your own or book one of our canyoneering and rappelling tours.

Things to see at the Grand Staircase

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah offers a wide range of activities and sights to explore. Here are some of the top things to do and see in the area:

The Cosmic Ashtray

Ready to feel like you’re on a different planet? The Cosmic Ashtray will transport you directly to Mars. This otherworldly formation features one of the most unique geological structures, red rocks, and a sense of desolation that is hard to find elsewhere.

Egypt Slot Canyon

Visiting Egypt Slot Canyon promises a breathtaking adventure through narrow sandstone passages. This remote and stunning landscape will bring an extra element of excitement as you occasionally find yourself scrambling over boulders and through tight squeezes.

Zebra Slot Canyon

These narrow, winding canyons are famous for their vibrant pink and white striped walls, sculpted by eons of water and wind erosion. If you are a photographer who enjoys hiking, Zebra Slot Canyon should be the first item on your Utah bucket list.

Spooky Slot Canyon

Spooky Slot Canyon in Escalante offers an eerie and enchanting journey through narrow, twisting sandstone passages that will leave you in awe of nature's artistry.

Other Exciting Grand Staircase Activities

Hiking Trails Abound

Escalante and all of Southern Utah is a hiker’s paradise with a diverse range of trails for hikers of every skill level. From the serene trails of Bryce Canyon to the challenging Angels Landing in Zion National Park, there’s something for every member of your travel group.

Go Chasing Waterfalls

The desert landscapes of Southern Utah might not immediately bring to mind waterfalls, but Escalante and nearby areas boast some hidden gems. Lower Calf Creek Falls, a stunning 130-foot waterfall tucked away inside Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a refreshing contrast to its neighboring views.

Petrified Forest: Frozen in Time

The Petrified Forest existed over 150 million years ago and is preserved in all its glory right in the heart of Escalante, Utah. The petrified wood creates a surreal landscape of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Travel back in time when you explore Escalante Petrified Forest State Park.

Scenic Drives: Journey or Destination?

Sometimes, the most memorable experiences occur along the journey. Southern Utah offers some of the most breathtaking vistas along the All-American Road, winding through the canyons, red rock country, and the national parks.