Overview
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a vast and diverse landscape of rugged canyons, towering mesas, and colorful sandstone cliffs. It offers some of the most spectacular and scenic landscapes in the United States.
The monument is renowned for its paleontological resources, with fossils from the Late Cretaceous and Paleogene periods. It's also home to diverse plant and animal life, and offers a wealth of recreational opportunities.
Location
Address
669 South Highway 89A, Kanab, Utah
Neighborhood: Southern Utah
Coordinates
37.025000, -112.542000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Wildflowers
- • Waterfalls
summer
Hot
- • Extended daylight hours
autumn
Cool, mild
- • Fall foliage
winter
Cold, possible snow
- • Snow-covered landscapes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No fee, but reservations required for some areas
- Bring plenty of water
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high (depending on activity)
- • Heat exhaustion
- • Dehydration
- • Altitude sickness
Medical facilities: Limited, nearest hospital is 30 miles away
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable, Hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, Inappropriate clothing for hiking
Booking Tips
- • At least 1 month for popular areas
- • Recreation.gov
- • Varies by activity
- • Online reservations
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Grand Staircase-Escalante N.M.
Size: 45 MB
Features: Maps, Trail descriptions, Permit booking
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Page Municipal Airport (PGA)
Distance: 100 miles
Travel Time: 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: Varies by city
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Diverse landscapes, rich history, and outdoor activities
Historical Significance: Home to ancient petroglyphs, fossils, and historic pioneer trails
Insider Tips
- Visit the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center for the best maps
- Early mornings are best for spotting wildlife
- Local guides offer unique insights and access to hidden spots
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local Navajo tacos
- • Visit the Kanab Heritage Festival
- • Ask rangers for hidden gem spots
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Escalante Canyon
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Capture the layered cliffs
Result: Breathtaking landscape shots
Caldron Pocket
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Highlight the unique rock formations
Result: Dramatic and unique shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Bryce Canyon National Park
Distance: 50 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: National Park
Zion National Park
Distance: 70 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: National Park
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Distance: 25 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: Animal Sanctuary
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Start early to avoid heat"
- "Check for flash floods"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
21
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
$0 (some areas require permits)