Zebra Canyon

Escalante National Monument is 2.42 Rhode Islands in area.  Yes, thats a unit of measurement.  It's slightly over one Delaware.  It's a lot of land and compared with other national parks, largely unexplored.  Directions to trails begin "park just past the cattle guard and follow the wash..." You might drive for an hour on a dirt road and not see another car.  Cell service is unlikely.

Full disclosure: It was desolate enough, that despite not being alone, I had a few mountain lion flashback-panic-attacks on the way in.

...and then again, on the way out. I don't think much can survive there, but it was quiet enough to question.

But that's what makes it special.  No, I'm not going to tell you how to get to one of the most remarkably beautiful and unique places I've been.  You can look on your own, the information is out there.  But if you do go, treat it right.  People are assholes.  Generally speaking, of course.  North Coyote Buttes used to be unrestricted, special, a secret.  When the masses found out, they did what people do.  Now 20 people are allowed to visit per day.  You need to win a lottery; when I showed up there were well over 100 people there for 10 permits. If you don't have a permit, you can be fined $300 for daring to visit.  Ok it just might be worth $300 to see, but still: it would be a shame if Zebra Canyon turned into that.



So, I beg you; if you seek out Zebra Canyon, treat it with respect.  Leave no trace.  Don't drop garbage, don't mark up the walls.  Leave it pristine and perfect for others to enjoy.

The entryway looks unassuming enough.  You're entering a slot canyon.  Which is it's own neat experience. But then:

It's everything that's amazing about southern Utah.

The photos don't do Zebra Canyon justice.  Narrow walls, winding path, red red striped rock. The best photos, actually have people in them. I'm not going to post photos of my ex, and I'm not going to post photos he took.  But, this spot is magical.  It's a very short hike, and while the striped walls slot canyon doesn't last that far, it's an unbelievable sight and feeling.

..and it's free.  Open, unrestricted.  Quiet, beautiful.  Please, if you go there, don't mess it up.

While you're there, make sure to check out Tunnel Slot.