City of Escalante

6. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Steps through time
Layers in rock are like the chapters in a huge history book that describe how Earth developed, where can you read the only unabridged edition of the planet's history.

The Grand Staircase is the world's most complete sequence of colourful sedimentary rocks - formed over vast timespans as sediments built up in lakes, inland seas, swamps, deserts, and forests.
This series of sedimentary rock layers stretchs south for 100 miles (161 km) from Bryce Canyon NP through Zion NP and into the Grand Canyon.
The rock layers have been uplifted, tilted, and eroded, forming a feature called the Grand Staircase. The bottom layer of rock at Bryce Canyon is the top at Zion, and the bottom layer of Zion is the top layer at the Grand Canyon. This rock record recounts a history of 525 million years.

Elsewhere on Earth the geological sequences have been interrupted by uplift of mountain ranges or carving and scouring action by glaciers. In the Grand Staircase, however, very few gaps mark the sequence. Most chapters and even pages of this book are still intact.

We kicked things off with the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail, a 6-mile roundtrip trek that felt like walking on the beach, thanks to the endless stretches of soft sand. We even took off our shoes to enjoy the sensation beneath our feet! By the time we reached the stunning waterfall, the heat had us craving a refreshing dip, but the crowd and the brisk wind kept me from diving in. Despite this, the sight of the falls was worth it—a lush oasis tucked within the canyon walls.

7. Capitol Reef National Park

Next up was Capitol Reef, where we stood in awe overlooking the Gooseneck of the Fremont River. The winding canyon seemed like nature’s way of showcasing its artistic touch. Sulfur Creek Canyon, carved deep into the landscape, highlighted layers of history, including the Kaibab Limestone, which can also be found at both Grand Canyon and Zion National Parks. This particular rock layer, the youngest at the Grand Canyon's North Rim, formed millions of years ago due to tectonic shifts, faulting, and eventual uplift and erosion. This is what we learnt from the Rangers there.

After soaking in the geological wonders, we explored the historical Fruita area, where orchards from early settlers still thrive. I couldn't resist climbing an apple tree and savoring the freshest, crunchiest apple I’ve ever had!

Our hikes here were just as sweet:

The Cohab Canyon Trail offered a unique, winding path through hidden canyons once used by polygamist Mormon settlers seeking refuge. The trail rewarded us with stunning views of the Fremont River and Fruita Valley.

The Hickman Bridge Trail was a favorite for its impressive 133-foot natural rock bridge. As we stood beneath this massive archway, it was amazing to think of the erosion forces that slowly sculpted it over millions of years.

We wrapped up the day with a soothing soak in the Fremont River, followed by a delicious dinner of Udon soup with zucchini and a perfectly half-boiled egg. Sometimes, life’s simplest pleasures are the best!Read more