Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument
Utah
March 2025

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a vast and rugged expanse in southern Utah, covering nearly 1.87 million acres of breathtaking landscapes, rich geological history, and remote wilderness. Named for the massive series of rock formations known as the "Grand Staircase," the monument also encompasses the Kaiparowits Plateau and the Escalante Canyons, each offering unique and dramatic scenery. This remote region is a treasure trove for paleontologists, with numerous dinosaur fossils dating back over 75 million years, as well as a rich archaeological record of Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont cultures. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to its slot canyons, waterfalls, and scenic trails, including iconic spots like Lower Calf Creek Falls and Zebra Slot Canyon. Despite its rugged beauty, the monument has been the center of political debates regarding conservation and land use. Whether for scientific discovery, outdoor adventure, or quiet solitude, Grand Staircase-Escalante remains one of the most awe-inspiring and untamed landscapes in the American West.