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1-day itinerary

Best of Escalante

One-day hike through Utah's red rock canyons

Length
1 day · 5 sights
Pace
Easy
Estimated cost
$60 per person
Based in
Escalante

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Best of Escalante: Canyons, Falls, and History

    A comprehensive one-day exploration of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, featuring a hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls, navigating the slot canyons of Peek-a-boo and Spooky Gulch, and visiting the Petrified Forest.

    • 08:00

      Breakfast and Preparation

      Start the day early with breakfast in Escalante town. Fill up water bottles and check road conditions at the visitor center or online, as dirt roads can be affected by weather.

      About 60 min

    • 09:00

      Hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls

      Drive to the trailhead and hike the 6.6-mile roundtrip trail to the 126-foot waterfall. This is the most popular hike in the area and offers stunning views of the red rock canyon. Allow time for swimming or relaxing by the pool if weather permits.

      About 3 hours

    • 12:30

      Picnic Lunch

      Enjoy a packed lunch near the falls or back at the trailhead parking area to save time and maximize hiking hours.

      About 60 min

    • 13:30

      Peek-a-boo and Spooky Gulch Slot Canyons

      Drive to the trailhead for this iconic slot canyon hike. The trail involves hiking through narrow sandstone walls, climbing ladders, and squeezing through tight passages. This is a moderate hike that requires careful navigation.

      About 2 hours

    • 15:30

      Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

      Visit the state park to see the petrified logs and learn about the area's prehistoric history. The short loop trail is easy and provides a nice contrast to the previous intense hike.

      About 60 min

    • 16:30

      Anasazi State Park Museum

      Explore the museum to understand the Ancestral Puebloan history of the region. The exhibits provide context for the ancient structures and artifacts found in the monument.

      About 60 min

    • 17:30

      Hole-in-the-Rock Road Scenic Drive

      Take a scenic drive along the historic Hole-in-the-Rock Road. This route offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and historical significance related to the Mormon pioneers.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 19:00

      Dinner in Escalante

      Return to town for dinner. Options include local eateries like Chihuahua Garcia Mexican Grill or Esca-latte Restaurant for a well-deserved meal after a long day.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Escalante Town; Lunch at Calf Creek Area; Dinner at Escalante Town
    Where to stay:
    Stay in Escalante town or camp at nearby BLM sites or campgrounds. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.
    Getting around:
    A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended for Hole-in-the-Rock Road and some access roads, though 2WD may suffice for main attractions if roads are dry. Check conditions before departure.

Practical information

Escalante is best visited during the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild and trail conditions are optimal. Summer months bring extreme heat, making midday hiking dangerous without significant preparation, while winter can bring snow and ice to higher elevations. Always check the current weather forecast and road conditions before departure, as flash floods are a serious risk in slot canyons, particularly during monsoon season. Access to the area is primarily via Highway 12, which connects to major routes like I-70. While the main roads are paved, many trailheads, such as those for the Peek-A-Boo and Spooky Gulch slot canyons, require high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles due to rough, unpaved access roads. Standard cars may struggle or get stuck, so verify vehicle requirements for specific trailheads in advance. Public transportation is limited, so renting a car is essential for exploring the remote areas of the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. Accommodation options in Escalante are limited, making early booking crucial. The town offers a few motels, inns, and campgrounds, but availability fills quickly, especially during peak seasons. For those seeking more flexibility, boondocking (dispersed camping) is available on surrounding BLM land, though visitors must be self-sufficient with no hookups or facilities. It is advisable to book lodging well in advance, particularly in spring and fall, to ensure a place to stay. Budget considerations should include costs for lodging, vehicle rental, and entrance fees, as the Grand Staircase–Escalante area is a vast, unmanaged landscape with no single entrance fee. However, some specific sites or nearby national parks may require separate passes. Dining options are limited to local eateries like Chihuahua Garcia Mexican Grill and Esca-latte Restaurant, so budget for meals in town or bring your own food for day hikes. Pack sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water (at least one gallon per person per day), sun protection, and layers for changing weather. A detailed map or GPS is essential, as cell service is unreliable. Bring a headlamp for slot canyons and a first-aid kit. Always inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time, as rescue services can be slow in this remote region.

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