The Other Side of Southern Utah

You have probably heard of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. They top the list for Southern Utah newcomers. But for those of us who seek more low-key, low-crowd desert wanderings, there are dozens of other rugged canyons, sweeping vistas and even alpine hikes.

Here are a few highlights of Southern Utah’s lesser-known gems, all of which are within striking distance of Moab.

Dead Horse Point State Park

The overlook here will help you get your bearings on where you want the next few days of exploration to take you. Stand atop the canyon rim and watch the Colorado River flow lazily around a 180-degree bend, 300 metres below. Beyond, the pinnacles and precipices of Canyonlands stretch past the horizon, unfolding a geologic story millions of years in the making. You can drive to the view, but a mountain bike or hike once you’re there really helps you get intimate with the landscape.

La Sal Mountains

Just to the southeast, the peaks of the La Sal Mountains rise above Moab, their snow-capped peaks topping out at nearly 4,000 metres above sea level. Drive the 100-kilometre National Forest Service loop road through pine and aspen forests. You might even catch a glimpse of foxes, wild turkeys and black bear. Bring a picnic to enjoy in a mountain meadow, before rolling back down into the red-rock desert.

Natural Bridges National Monument

You can see all three natural sandstone arches from the loop road, or get up-close and personal with them and other curious rock formations along an easy hike. After dark, the stellar show begins. The night is so dark and the skies are so clear here that in 2007 Natural Bridges was named the world’s first International Dark Sky Park.

Moki Dugway

Head south of Natural Bridges, on Utah Route 261, and heed the signs urging you to slow down. They signify you are about to embark on a true Utah rite of passage—the Moki Dugway. Here, the road turns to dirt for a 5-kilometre, 365-metre hairpincurved descent. Downshift to play it safe, and leave the sightseeing “oohs” and “aaahs” for the passengers.

Goosenecks State Park

Another river-bend vista, this small park overlooks the San Juan, where it has carved its way through 300 million years of geologic layers. There’s camping here, and a hike out to the end of the mesa.

Monument Valley

Unless you grew up without a television, you’re sure to recognize the rocky spires and desolate strip of highway cutting across this isolated, iconic valley. (Hint: Think Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey). Stop for a photo op, as well as jewellery, art and other wares from Navajo vendors.