Monument Travel Information

**NEW UPDATE** Calf Creek Recreation Site now open!

KANAB, Utah (Sept. 27, 2024) - Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is pleased to announce that the Calf Creek Recreation Site is now open. For more information, visit Calf Creek Recreation Site scheduled to reopen | Bureau of Land Management (blm.gov).

**NEW UPDATE** Fire Restrictions Rescinded

KANAB, Utah (Aug. 30, 2024) - There are no additional fire restrictions in on BLM public lands managed by the Paria River District in Kane and Garfield counties. However, please keep campfires small and use "Fire Sense" when spending time outdoors.

For more information on preventing unwanted human-caused wildfires, agency-specific restrictions, and reference maps, visit www.utahfiresense.orgwww.utahfireinfo.gov, and www.wildlandfire.az.gov or follow us on Twitter @UtahWildfire

Fire Information

Weather Conditions

Flash Flood Potential

During monsoon season, the Flash Flood Potential Rating is updated daily via the National Weather Service Salt Lake City (NWS SLC).

If you encounter flooding or rain, seek higher ground

  • You may encounter debris, washed out roads and trails, and/or standing water. Wait until the water recedes before attempting to hike out. When you go across a dry wash, think about how to get back. A dry wash may collect or fill with water before you return.
  • Even if it is not raining where you are there is still a chance of flooding from rain upstream. Narrow slot canyons are especially susceptible to flash flooding. Always plan ahead and check the weather before going out.
  • Please plan ahead to avoid vehicles getting stuck or needing to call emergency services. Do not attempt to cross flood waters on foot or in a vehicle. 
  • Traveling on wet or flooded dirt roads (especially those crossing high clay content soils) creates ruts and can cause damage. Once it dries, those ruts can harden and make it very difficult for others to use the road.

Tread Safely in Slot Canyons

Slot canyons in Utah can be deadly in flash flood conditions. Watch Tread Safely in Slot Canyons to learn more about safely exploring slot canyons and public lands.

Additional Safety Tips

  • STAY HYDRATED: When the temperatures rise, getting enough water is important whether you’re playing sitting in the sun or recreating on public lands. For tips on staying hydrated, visit the American Heart Association.
  • BE AWARE: When exploring public lands on your next adventure, please be aware, monitor local weather conditions and have a plan to seek higher ground. 
  • WEATHER CHECK: Check the local weather conditions for the area you plan to visit. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.
  • TRAVEL SMART: Remember to secure personal property, stay away from floodwaters, and avoid travel on flooded roads.
  • PLAN AHEAD: So that you can avoid vehicles getting stuck or needing to call emergency services. Do not attempt to cross flood waters on foot or in a vehicle.
  • FAST AND HIGH: High water levels and swift currents can maker rivers and streams dangerous. Seek higher ground if you encounter flooding or rain and wait until the water recedes before attempting to hike out. 
  • ACCOUNTABILITY: Make sure someone else knows your plan in case there is an emergency, so it is easier for you to get any assistance you may need.

Human Waste

Although there are several facilities at some of the more popular campsites and trailheads, keep in mind that Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is nearly 2 million acres. That is roughly 2,968 square miles, which is bigger than the state of Delaware or Rhode Island - so it is likely that you could find yourself in a place with no facilities close by.

All solid human waste must be carried out using portable human waste containment systems like a WAG Bag, short for “waste alleviation and gelling,” which are a convenient, portable, and sanitary solution when you need to go on the go. Each bag is sealable, contains enzymes and polymers, and can be disposed of in regular trash receptacles.

Leave No Trace

Please leave the Monument as you found it.  Please pack out all trash including toilet paper, hygiene products, and all food waste including orange peels, which can take up to a decade to biodegrade.  Respect the natural beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and ensure future visitors have the same experience. Secure trash in a zippered pocket or bag and dispose of it in a trash can in the nearest town.

Respect & Protect

Rock writing sites can be throughout Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Hikers should follow “Visit with Respect” Principles and understand that defacing these historic sites is not only disrespectful, but strictly prohibited.  Leave no marks or graffiti to preserve this Tribal history; 43 CFR § 4140.1 outlines prohibited acts on BLM-administered lands, which would include graffiti, and individuals performing such acts are subject to civil and criminal penalties. It’s important to respect these regulations to protect the natural and cultural resources on public lands.

Road Conditions

Water Quality

Water Quality Conditions for the Calf Creek Recreation Area are posted as needed. For current conditions, please visit Learn About & Check Utah Recreational Water Quality.

Homepages

Contact

Please email dhercher@blm.gov if there are any issues accessing any links on this page. Thank you!

Last Update

Created

Region

Paria River DO