Embark on a journey curated by seasoned explorers William and Hui Cha Stanek, who have spent decades immersing themselves in the diverse landscapes of North America. These itineraries are more than just travel plans - they are thoughtfully crafted adventures designed to help you connect with the natural world, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories.

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Table of Contents

Introduction: A 2-Day Journey into the Heart of the Escalante

There's a wildness to Utah's landscape that calls to the adventurer in all of us. Nowhere is this more evident than in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. This vast, rugged wilderness is a place where the land still feels raw and untamed, where you can hike for miles without seeing another soul, and where the beauty of the natural world is on full display. For Hui Cha and me, Grand Staircase-Escalante is one of those places that never ceases to amaze us – a place where we can reconnect with nature and find peace in the solitude of the desert.

Our journey began early one morning as we made our way through the winding roads of southern Utah. The landscape around us was a tapestry of red rock, rolling hills, and deep canyons, with the Escalante River cutting through it all like a ribbon of life in the desert. We had been to this area before, but the sense of anticipation was still palpable. Grand Staircase-Escalante is a place where adventure awaits around every corner, where each hike, each canyon, and each viewpoint offers something new and unexpected.

As we hiked through narrow slot canyons, scrambled up rocky ledges, and stood on the edge of towering cliffs, we were reminded of the immense power of nature and the passage of time. The land here is ancient, shaped by wind, water, and time into a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. There's a sense of history in every rock, every canyon, and every riverbed – a reminder that we are just small, passing visitors in a land that has been here for millions of years.

Join us as we take you on a journey through Grand Staircase-Escalante and beyond. We'll share our stories, tips, and insights to help you create your own unforgettable experiences in Utah's vast and untamed wilderness. And for those looking to extend their adventure, we've included optional second-day add-ons to some of the most stunning and sought-after locations in the Southwest – places like Antelope Canyon, The Wave, Cathedral Wash, White Pocket, and the Fire Wave.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Grand Staircase-Escalante

Morning: Sunrise at Calf Creek Falls

Overview

Start your Grand Staircase-Escalante adventure with a hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls, one of the most beautiful and accessible spots in the monument. The trail follows Calf Creek through a deep canyon, leading to a stunning 126-foot waterfall that plunges into a cool, inviting pool.

Tips from William

"Arrive at the trailhead by 6:00 AM to catch the first light of the day. The early morning light is perfect for photography, casting a soft glow over the canyon walls and illuminating the greenery around the creek. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scene, and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and the surrounding vegetation."

Insights from Hui Cha

"Calf Creek Falls is a little slice of paradise in the desert. The sound of the water, the cool shade of the canyon, and the sight of the waterfall cascading into the pool below make this a perfect place to start your day. The hike is moderate but very rewarding, and I love taking a moment to sit by the falls and soak in the beauty of the place."

How to Access Calf Creek Falls

Directions:

• From the town of Escalante, take UT-12 east for about 15 miles to the Calf Creek Recreation Area. The trailhead is located near the campground.

Trail Details:

• Trail Length: 6 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: 500 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate

Photography Tips: For the best shots of the waterfall, arrive early to catch the soft morning light as it filters through the canyon. Use a slow shutter speed to capture the movement of the water, creating a smooth, silky effect. The surrounding vegetation and canyon walls make for great foreground elements, so don't be afraid to experiment with different compositions.

Alternative Activity: If the hike to Calf Creek Falls is too long or challenging, consider exploring the nearby Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. This park offers shorter trails that lead to beautiful views of petrified wood and colorful badlands, making it a great alternative for those seeking a less strenuous hike.

Mid-Morning: Exploring Devil's Garden

Overview

After the hike to Calf Creek Falls, head to Devil's Garden, a unique and otherworldly landscape filled with hoodoos, arches, and balanced rocks. This area is a photographer's dream, with endless opportunities to capture the strange and beautiful formations that dot the landscape.

Tips from William

"Devil's Garden is one of those places where you can spend hours exploring and photographing the unique rock formations. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the landscape, but also keep a telephoto lens handy for zooming in on the details of the hoodoos and arches. The light in the late morning is still good for photography, so take your time and enjoy the area."

Insights from Hui Cha

"Devil's Garden is like stepping into another world. The rock formations here are so strange and beautiful, and the landscape feels almost magical. I love wandering through the garden, finding hidden arches and small caves, and just taking in the beauty of the place."

How to Access Devil's Garden

Directions:

• From Escalante, take Hole-in-the-Rock Road south for about 12 miles, then turn right onto the road to Devil's Garden. The parking area is located at the end of the road.

Trail Details:

• Trail Length: 1 mile round-trip (loop)
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Difficulty: Easy

Photography Tips: As you explore Devil's Garden, look for opportunities to capture the contrast between the red rock formations and the deep blue sky. Use a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare, especially in the midday sun. For a more creative shot, try framing the hoodoos and arches with the surrounding vegetation, adding depth and interest to your composition.

Alternative Activity: If you prefer a more structured hike, consider exploring the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch slot canyons, located further down Hole-in-the-Rock Road. These narrow canyons offer a challenging but rewarding adventure, with tight squeezes and beautiful rock formations to explore.

Afternoon: Hiking the Escalante River Trail

Overview

In the afternoon, explore the Escalante River Trail, a scenic hike that follows the river through a deep canyon, with opportunities to see ancient petroglyphs, natural arches, and lush riparian vegetation. This trail offers a different perspective on the monument, showcasing the beauty of the Escalante River as it winds its way through the canyon.

Tips from William

"The Escalante River Trail is a great way to experience the diverse landscapes of Grand Staircase-Escalante. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views of the canyon, and a telephoto lens to zoom in on the details of the petroglyphs and rock formations. The late afternoon light is perfect for photography, casting long shadows and adding depth to the landscape."

Insights from Hui Cha

"This trail offers a beautiful mix of scenery, from the flowing river to the towering canyon walls. I love the sense of history here, with the ancient petroglyphs reminding us of the people who lived in this area long before us. The hike is moderate, but the beauty of the canyon makes it well worth the effort."

How to Access the Escalante River Trail

Directions:

• From the town of Escalante, take UT-12 east for about 13 miles to the Escalante River trailhead, located near the bridge over the river.

Trail Details:

• Trail Length: 7 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: 300 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate

Photography Tips: As you hike along the trail, look for opportunities to capture the contrast between the lush greenery of the river and the red rock walls of the canyon. Use a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water. For a more creative shot, try framing the river with the surrounding vegetation, adding depth and interest to your composition.

Alternative Activity: If the Escalante River Trail is too long or challenging, consider exploring the shorter Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail, which offers beautiful views of the canyon and a stunning waterfall at the end of the hike.

Evening: Sunset at Head of the Rocks Overlook

Overview

End your day with a visit to the Head of the Rocks Overlook, one of the most scenic viewpoints along Scenic Byway 12. This overlook offers panoramic views of the Escalante Canyons and the surrounding desert, with the winding road below adding a sense of scale to the vast landscape.

Tips from William

"Head of the Rocks Overlook is a fantastic spot to capture the sunset, with wide, sweeping views of the canyons and the desert below. Set up your tripod well before sunset to find the best angle, and use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scene. A graduated neutral density filter will help balance the exposure between the bright sky and the darker landscape."

Insights from Hui Cha

"Sunset at Head of the Rocks is the perfect way to end a day in Grand Staircase-Escalante. The way the light plays across the canyons, casting long shadows and turning the rock a deep red, is truly magical. Bring a blanket and a warm drink, and take some time to simply sit and enjoy the moment."

How to Access Head of the Rocks Overlook

Directions:

• From the town of Escalante, take UT-12 east for about 10 miles to the Head of the Rocks Overlook.

Viewpoint Details:

• Location: Along UT-12, about 10 miles east of Escalante
• Elevation Gain: None (overlook is accessible by car)
• Difficulty: Easy

Photography Tips: For a stunning sunset shot, position yourself on the western side of the overlook to capture the last light of the day as it illuminates the canyons. Use a small aperture (f/16 or smaller) to keep the entire scene in focus, and experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the changing light. If the conditions are right, consider staying after sunset to photograph the stars as they appear.

Alternative Activity: If you prefer a quieter spot for sunset, consider visiting the nearby Calf Creek Falls Overlook, which offers beautiful views of the canyon and the waterfall below.

Conclusion: Reflections on the Day

As the last rays of sunlight faded from the sky and the stars began to emerge, Hui Cha and I stood quietly at Head of the Rocks Overlook, reflecting on the incredible journey we had just experienced. From the peaceful hike to Calf Creek Falls to the otherworldly beauty of Devil's Garden, each moment had been a reminder of the sheer power and beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante.

These moments, spent in the heart of nature, are what make our travels so meaningful. They're a reminder of the importance of preserving these wild places, and of the deep connection we feel to the land. As we packed up our gear and prepared to head back to our campsite, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the day's experiences and for the time spent in this incredible monument.

But our adventure didn't end there. For those looking to extend their journey, there are several optional second-day add-ons that offer some of the most stunning and sought-after experiences in the Southwest. From the famous Antelope Canyon to the surreal landscape of The Wave, these destinations offer a deeper dive into the beauty of this remarkable region.

Day 2: Add-on Options: Exploring Beyond Grand Staircase-Escalante

Antelope Canyon (Permits Required)

Overview

Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world, known for its stunning light beams and swirling sandstone walls. Located near Page, Arizona, this narrow canyon is a must-see for anyone visiting the Southwest.

Tips from William

"Antelope Canyon is a photographer's dream, but it's also very popular, so be sure to book a guided tour well in advance. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the canyon's curves and colors, and a tripod to stabilize your camera in the low light. The best time to visit is midday, when the sun is high enough to send light beams down into the canyon."

Insights from Hui Cha

"Walking through Antelope Canyon is like stepping into another world. The light, the colors, and the shapes of the rock create a magical atmosphere that's unlike anything else. The canyon can get crowded, but it's worth it for the incredible beauty of the place."

How to Access Antelope Canyon

Directions:

• From Page, Arizona, take US-89 south for about 5 miles, then turn left onto AZ-98 and follow signs to the Antelope Canyon tour offices.

Tour Details:

• Tour Length: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Difficulty: Easy

Photography Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the canyon, and a tripod to stabilize your camera in the low light. Be sure to experiment with different compositions, focusing on the swirling patterns and colors of the sandstone walls. The light beams are best captured with a fast shutter speed, so be ready when they appear.

Alternative Activity: If Antelope Canyon is too crowded or you're unable to secure a permit, consider visiting the nearby Horseshoe Bend, a stunning overlook of the Colorado River that offers equally breathtaking views.

The Wave (Permits Required)

Overview

The Wave is one of the most iconic and sought-after destinations in the Southwest, known for its surreal, wave-like rock formations and vibrant colors. Located in the Coyote Buttes North area of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, The Wave requires a permit, which is obtained through a highly competitive lottery system.

Tips from William

"The Wave is a challenging hike, but the reward is well worth the effort. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a GPS device to help navigate the trail, as it's easy to get lost in this remote area. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the full scale of The Wave, and a polarizing filter will help enhance the colors and reduce glare."

Insights from Hui Cha

"Hiking to The Wave is like walking through a natural art gallery. The colors, the shapes, and the patterns of the rock are absolutely mesmerizing. The hike is challenging, but the beauty of the landscape makes it worth every step. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and be sure to respect the fragile environment."

How to Access The Wave

Directions:

• From Kanab, Utah, take US-89 south for about 40 miles, then turn left onto House Rock Valley Road and follow signs to the Wire Pass trailhead.

Trail Details:

• Trail Length: 6 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: 400 feet
• Difficulty: Difficult (due to navigation and heat)

Photography Tips: For the best shots of The Wave, arrive early to catch the soft morning light as it illuminates the rock formations. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the landscape, and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare. Be sure to experiment with different compositions, focusing on the swirling patterns and colors of the sandstone.

Alternative Activity: If you're unable to secure a permit for The Wave, consider visiting the nearby White Pocket, which offers similarly stunning rock formations without the need for a permit. The hike is less challenging, and the landscape is just as surreal and beautiful.

Cathedral Wash (No Permit Required)

Overview

Cathedral Wash is a short but challenging hike that takes you through a narrow canyon in Marble Canyon, Arizona. The trail follows the wash as it descends into the Colorado River, offering stunning views of the canyon walls and the river below.

Tips from William

"Cathedral Wash is a great hike for those looking for a bit of adventure. The trail involves some scrambling and route-finding, so be prepared for a challenging but rewarding experience. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the canyon, and a telephoto lens to zoom in on the details of the rock formations."

Insights from Hui Cha

"This hike offers a beautiful mix of scenery, from the narrow canyon walls to the expansive views of the Colorado River. I love the sense of solitude and adventure here – it's a great way to experience the beauty of Marble Canyon without the crowds."

How to Access Cathedral Wash

Directions:

• From Page, Arizona, take US-89 south for about 30 miles, then turn right onto Lees Ferry Road and follow signs to the Cathedral Wash trailhead.

Trail Details:

• Trail Length: 3 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: 300 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (due to scrambling)

Photography Tips: As you hike through the wash, look for opportunities to capture the contrast between the narrow canyon walls and the deep blue sky. Use a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare. For a more creative shot, try framing the river with the surrounding vegetation and rock formations.

Alternative Activity: If the hike through Cathedral Wash is too challenging, consider exploring the nearby Lees Ferry area, which offers beautiful views of the Colorado River and easy access to the historic ferry site.

White Pocket (No Permit Required)

Overview

White Pocket is a hidden gem in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, known for its surreal rock formations and vibrant colors. Unlike The Wave, White Pocket does not require a permit, making it a great alternative for those looking to experience the beauty of this unique landscape without the hassle of a lottery system.

Tips from William

"White Pocket is a photographer's paradise, with endless opportunities to capture the unique rock formations and vibrant colors of the landscape. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the area, and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the shadows are long."

Insights from Hui Cha

"White Pocket feels like a hidden world, with its swirling patterns of rock and otherworldly colors. The landscape here is so unique and beautiful – it's a place where you can spend hours exploring and photographing the various formations. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the area is remote and exposed."

How to Access White Pocket

Directions:

• From Kanab, Utah, take US-89 south for about 40 miles, then turn left onto House Rock Valley Road. Follow the rough, unpaved road for about 8 miles to the White Pocket trailhead.

Trail Details:

• Trail Length: 2 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Difficulty: Moderate (due to remote access and heat)

Photography Tips: For the best shots of White Pocket, arrive early or stay late to catch the soft light of sunrise or sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the landscape, and experiment with different compositions to highlight the unique patterns and colors of the rock formations.

Alternative Activity: If you prefer a more accessible location, consider visiting the nearby Paria Canyon, which offers beautiful views of colorful sandstone cliffs and the Paria River. The hike is relatively easy, and the landscape is just as stunning.

Fire Wave (Permits Required)

Overview

The Fire Wave is one of the most iconic spots in Nevada's Valley of Fire State Park, known for its swirling patterns of red, white, and orange sandstone. This short hike leads to a stunning rock formation that looks like a frozen wave, making it a must-see for any visitor to the park.

Tips from William

"The Fire Wave is a popular destination, so be sure to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the formation, and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare. The best light for photography is in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky."

Insights from Hui Cha

"The Fire Wave is a place that truly lives up to its name. The swirling patterns of the rock, combined with the vibrant colors, make it look like a wave frozen in time. The hike is short and easy, but the reward is well worth it. Take your time, enjoy the beauty of the place, and be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection."

How to Access the Fire Wave

Directions:

• From Las Vegas, take I-15 north for about 50 miles, then take exit 75 for Valley of Fire Highway. Follow the highway into the park and turn right onto Mouse's Tank Road. The Fire Wave trailhead is located about 1 mile down the road.

Trail Details:

• Trail Length: 1.5 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Difficulty: Easy

Photography Tips: For the best shots of the Fire Wave, arrive early or stay late to catch the soft light of sunrise or sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the formation, and experiment with different compositions to highlight the unique patterns and colors of the sandstone.

Alternative Activity: If the Fire Wave is too crowded, consider exploring the nearby White Domes Trail, which offers beautiful views of colorful rock formations and a scenic slot canyon. The hike is relatively easy and provides a great alternative to the more popular Fire Wave.

Conclusion: A Personal Reflection

As we wrapped up our journey through Grand Staircase-Escalante and the surrounding Southwest, Hui Cha and I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible beauty and diversity of this remarkable region. From the peaceful solitude of Calf Creek Falls to the surreal landscapes of The Wave and White Pocket, each destination had offered something unique and unforgettable.

These moments, spent in the heart of nature, are what make our travels so meaningful. They're a reminder of the importance of preserving these wild places, and of the deep connection we feel to the land. As we packed up our gear and prepared to head back home, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared and for the time spent in these incredible places.

Our journey through the Southwest was over for now, but the memories and the beauty of these landscapes would stay with us forever. And as we drove away from the desert, I knew that we would return, drawn back by the promise of new adventures and the chance to explore even deeper into the heart of this stunning wilderness.