Utah: Coyote Gulch
The canyons of Utah offer a unique opportunity to backpack in a desert environment like no other. Hike among red cliffs, sandy trails and bright blue skies. Visit ancient ruins of the Anasazi people and try to interpret their rock art. Squeeze your way through slot canyons or camp in a vast plain that makes you wonder if you’re actually surrounded by cliffs at all. Spend your days at a much slower pace, allowing time to contemplate the historical connections of a hunting/gathering society and our over-commercialized current society. Ponder the implications of why Jesus went into the desert and spend some solo time asking yourself those same hard questions. The majority of your time will be spent backpacking, with the option of an alternative day of rock climbing/rappelling.
Destination: Coyote Gulch (tributary of the Escalante River), Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah
Activities: Backpacking, rock climbing/rappelling
Cost: $$
Sample Itinerary
Day 1-2: Pack gear and drive to Utah.
Day 3: Arrive at the trailhead and hike into the first campsite.
Days 4-7: Hike along the trails and a possible afternoon of rock climbing.
Day 8: Break down last campsite, head out to the trailhead, depart for home.
Day 9: Drive, with a possible stop at a hot spring for showers.
Day 10: Arrive home early morning, clean and de-issue gear.
Disclaimer: All guided trips are offered by request. Necessary permits and fees are requested and obtained from the National Park Service prior to each trip.
