About Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
About The Monument The Monument is also an outstanding biological resource, spanning five life-zones - from low-lying desert to coniferous forest. Deep within this vast and austere landscape, the Anasazi and Fremont cultures made contact in the period AD 950-1100, leaving behind rock art panels, occupation sites, campsites and granaries. Stepping further back in time, fossil excavations have yielded more information about ecosystem change at the end of the dinosaur era than any other place in the world. The Monument’s size, resources, and remote character provide extraordinary opportunities for geologists, paleontologists, archeologists, historians, and biologists in scientific research, education, and exploration. This unspoiled natural area remains a frontier with countless opportunities for quiet recreation and solitude. To learn more, visit the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Homepage here.
How to Get There
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is located in southern Utah, approximately 290 highway miles south of Salt Lake City or 250 miles east of Las Vegas. Two paved roads provide access to the Monument: Highway 89 on the south and Highway 12 on the north. The Monument is remote, and nearly all of its north to south roads are primitive. Acquire good information before venturing into the Monument's interior, including a good road map that is readable and understandable. Think of time and level of difficulty, not just miles. Choose roads and trails that match your vehicle, driving skills and experience. Always bring plenty of water, and make sure that your vehicle is in good working condition and adequately supplied for emergencies. [All vehicles and bicycles must stay on roads. Driving off roads is prohibited. CFR 8341.1 (c)].
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Heading to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument?
No central reservation system listed for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/3120) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument?
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is located in southern Utah, approximately 290 highway miles south of Salt Lake City or 250 miles east of Las Vegas. Two paved roads provide access to the Monument: Highway 89 on the south and Highway 12 on the north. The Monument is remote, and nearly all of its north to south roads are primitive. Acquire good information before venturing into the Monum…
How do I contact Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-644-1300 or email: BLM_UT_ES_Interagency@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
