Grand Staircase SXS Experience
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument area, where nature's grandeur is waiting to astound you. This exclusive event is tailor-made for enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled journey through the heart of the American Southwest.
Picture yourself as one of the fortunate few, as we limit the expedition to just 15 UTV's per Ride Leader – a deliberate choice to ensure an intimate and immersive experience. With a maximum of two people per UTV, it's a chance for you and your fellow explorers to form a close-knit community of adventurers.
Act swiftly, as spots for this remarkable escapade are poised to vanish faster than you can imagine. Be among the trailblazers who seize the opportunity to bask in the surreal landscapes that await in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Nestled just 17 miles northwest of Page, Arizona, the enchanting town of Big Water, Utah, will serve as your gateway to a landscape that defies earthly comparisons. The journey commences as you traverse the famed US-89, a road known for its proximity to Lake Powell and the awe-inspiring Glen Canyon Dam. This 85-mile trail leads you through the heart of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, an area famed for its otherworldly beauty.
Prepare yourself for the spectacle that is the Smoky Mountain Scenic Backway. This trail winds through the very fabric of nature's artwork, spanning the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Each bend in the rocky dirt trail reveals a new layer of wonder, but be ready – this trail demands respect. Only the well-prepared and daring should attempt it, as it's not a path for the faint-hearted.
Let the adrenaline flow as you navigate the high-clearance track that promises excitement at every turn. But remember, this journey requires meticulous planning and readiness. The road becomes impassable when rain strikes or during winter's frosty embrace. It's a pilgrimage for the adventurers, a rare opportunity to soak in the untouched beauty of the land.
As you ascend, your eyes will be blessed with panoramic views that stretch beyond imagination. Gaze upon Lake Powell, the majestic Navajo Mountains, and the sprawling Kaiparowits Plateau. The route's elevation changes provide moderate temperatures during the spring and fall, ensuring comfort as you savor nature's spectacle.
An expedition into the unknown always comes with its challenges, and the Smoky Mountain Road is no exception. Kelly's Grade, a legendary stretch of switchbacks, beckons the daring to ascend 1200 feet on the cliffs of the Kaiparowits Plateau. The reward? A breathtaking panorama that includes Lake Powell, Navajo Mountain, Bryce Canyon, and more. Here, isolation is your companion – you might traverse this entire stretch without encountering another soul.
Venture forth knowing that this experience isn't just a drive; it's an immersion into the raw and untouched. This path is devoid of civilization, free from the typical services and conveniences. But fear not, for you shall come prepared, well-equipped with water, food, and a sturdy spare. Only the intrepid souls shall tread here, the ones who understand the risks and embrace the challenges.
Among these majestic landscapes, discover the enigmatic Smoky Mountain, where an underground fire has smoldered for ages. The ethereal fissures reveal a hidden fire, a sight that truly comes alive in freezing temperatures. Bundle up and witness a scene reminiscent of Yellowstone's volcanic wonder.
Delve into the geological history that has shaped this landscape. Smoky Mountain's coal seams, interwoven with ancient mudstone and sandstone, tell a tale that spans millions of years. As you journey through the geological tapestry, you'll uncover the remnants of an era when the Western Interior Seaway left its mark.
Your journey begins at the southern entrance, where the Smoky Mountain Road meanders through Glen Canyon Recreation Area and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The road beckons from Big Water, Utah, following Route-230. As you traverse the path, you'll transition from smooth paved roads to rugged dirt trails, a transition aptly named "The Moon." This eerie and stark landscape sets the stage for the adventure that unfolds.
Beyond the transition, the landscape morphs into rocky canyons, a realm of slow progress but unmatched beauty. You'll navigate peaks, valleys, and washes, each turn revealing the Earth's intricate sculptures. Prepare for the Last Chance Draw, a test of nerves and skill, as the road descends sharply, demanding your utmost attention.
The journey concludes with a flourish, as the road guides you along Alvey Wash. Smooth and sandy, this stretch is a sensory delight, with Cottonwood trees and scenic vistas painting the final strokes of your adventure.
Prepare for a voyage that words can hardly capture and images can't do justice. The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument beckons, promising an expedition that's equal parts exhilarating and humbling. So seize this chance – venture forth, discover the untouched, and become one with the wonders of nature. Your epic journey awaits.