Tag Archives: desert varnish

Corona Arch Trail, including Bowtie Arch and Pinto Arch (Moab area, UT)

Boasting an aperture of 140 ft. by 105 ft., Corona Arch is one of Utah’s largest—and most spectacular—natural arches. Yet its location, tucked away amidst BLM land, keeps the place relatively unspoiled, in contrast with the swarming crowds of nearby … Continue reading

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Halls Creek Narrows via “airport route” (Capitol Reef National Park, UT)

Hundreds of thousands flock to southwestern Utah’s Zion National Park each year to witness the famed Zion Narrows, where the majestic Virgin River has sculpted a 16-mile stretch of cavernous bends and twists seemingly unique in their beauty. Midway across … Continue reading

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Lower Muley Twist Canyon – Upper Section (Capitol Reef National Park, UT)

With sweeping alcoves and towering walls, Lower Muley Twist Canyon has become one of Capitol Reef National Park’s most popular backpacking destinations. To the ambitious, it can also be conquered in a couple of lengthy day hikes—though an overnight is … Continue reading

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Lower Maidenwater Canyon (North Lake Powell area, UT)

The remote Trachyte Creek drainage system—just east of Utah’s Henry Mountains and north of Lake Powell—comprises a flurry of narrow canyons, many thin enough to form slender slots. One of the area’s best day hikes is Lower Maidenwater Canyon, easily … Continue reading

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Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail (Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT)

The half-day out-and-back to Lower Calf Creek Falls is the most popular hike in the Escalante Canyons area, and with good reason. Not only does the colorful and beautifully-framed 126-foot chute make for a blissful destination, but the journey itself … Continue reading

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Grand Wash Trail (Capitol Reef National Park, UT)

Connecting Highway 24 and the Fremont River with the Scenic Drive, Grand Wash is one of only six drainages cutting east-west through the 100-mile Waterpocket Fold. It also happens to be one of the flattest and easiest hikes in Capitol … Continue reading

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