How to Spend 4 Adventurous Days in Escalante Utah
If you’re craving a grand outdoor adventure, Grand Staircase-Escalante is calling your name. This place is straight-up magical—endless sandstone cliffs, crazy slot canyons, but for most of it, you have to work for it. Four days won’t cover it all, but you’ll get a solid taste of what makes this place so special. In this post I will outline the perfect way to spend 4 adventurous days in Escalante Utah!
I will cover where to stay, what to eat and most importantly, where to find adventure.
Escalante is one of those places where you come for the hikes but end up loving the chill, friendly atmosphere just as much. Definitely worth spending some time in before or after you explore Grand Staircase.
It’s one of the best jumping-off points for slot canyon hikes, scenic drives, and remote backcountry adventures. Highway 12, one of the most beautiful roads in the U.S., runs right through town.
What to Know Before You Go
- Remote Location: Escalante is pretty far from big cities, so stock up on gas and supplies before heading out.
- Weather: Summers are hot, winters can be chilly, and spring/fall are perfect for hiking.
- Cell Service: Spotty at best once you leave town, so download maps and info before you head out on any adventures.
Where to Stay
Escalante Outfitters offers rustic log cabins, perfect for adventurers exploring Grand Staircase–Escalante. Its a wonderful budget option. And the pizza in the on site restaurant is AHMAZING. You can check them out HERE.
Ofland Escalante blends modern comfort with nature, featuring stylish cabins, vintage airstreams, and campsites. I wouldn’t recommend the campsites for tents , only vans or campers. The amenities like a pool, hot tub, and stunning desert views make it a great stay! You can check it out HERE.
Where to Eat
Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm is a farm-to-table restaurant in Boulder, Utah, (a little ways out of Escalante) known for organic, locally sourced Southwestern cuisine. Their seasonal menu highlights sustainability and fresh farm ingredients. Its a must!
4th West Pub is Escalante’s only bar, offering 30+ beers, craft cocktails, and hearty pub food in a relaxed setting. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring Scenic Highway 12.
Escalante Outfitters combines a gear shop with a café serving wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and craft beer. A favorite among adventurers, it’s the perfect place to refuel after hiking Grand Staircase–Escalante.
Lower Calf Creek Falls & Scenic Drive (Day 1)
Morning: Start with one of the most gorgeous (and refreshing) hikes around—Lower Calf Creek Falls.
It’s about 6 miles round trip and takes you through a stunning desert canyon, past ancient pictographs, and ends at a breathtaking 126-foot waterfall. And yes, the water is freezing, but if you’re feeling brave, go for a dip. Totally worth it!
If you need more, you can also tackle Upper Calf Creek Falls. Upper Calf Creek Falls is a secluded 88-foot waterfall reached by a steep but short 2-mile hike over slickrock. With stunning desert views and a peaceful swimming hole, it’s a quiet alternative to Lower Calf Creek Falls.
After that, hop in the car and cruise along Highway 12. Its beautiful. Make sure to get out at the overlook. Grab a coffee at Kiva Coffee, it has EPIC views.
Late Afternoon + Evening: Head to Devils Garden. Devils Garden in Grand Staircase-Escalante is a playground of sandstone hoodoos, arches, and rock formations, perfect for climbing and exploring. Best visited at sunset when the rocks glow with warm light. You can’t get enough.
Slot Canyons & Desert Wonders (Day 2)
Morning: Start your day early and get ready for some exciting slot canyon hikes. First, head to Peekaboo & Spooky Slot Canyons—a 4.4-mile loop with narrow, twisting paths and fun obstacles. Peekaboo features sculpted sandstone, while Spooky offers tight squeezes that will have you turning sideways at times.
Afternoon: Next, make your way to Zebra Slot Canyon. This 5-mile hike leads to a vibrant, striped canyon that’s perfect for photos, and if there’s water, expect to wade through it for an added thrill.
After the adventure, head back to Escalante to relax, grab a bite, and finish the day with some stargazing under the incredible night sky. Or if you have had your fill of slot canyons, visit Escalante Natural Bridge (4 miles RT) – A scenic hike to a massive rock bridge along the Escalante River.
Epic Desert Hikes (Day 3+4)
Morning: Start your morning with the stunning Golden Cathedral hike. The 9-mile round-trip trek leads you to a remote, awe-inspiring alcove with a natural skylight, perfect for photos and a moment of peace.
This one isn’t easy, so please do your research, download a map and know your limits.
Another great option is Cosmic Ashtray. It is a striking rock formation located near Escalante, known for its bowl-shaped, deep indentation resembling an ashtray. The unique shape and surreal landscape make it a great destination!
A few overnight options
You might want to dig deeper into the landscapes of Escalante and backpack. Spend the night in the backcountry to really immerse yourself.
- Head to Coyote Gulch (you can take the shorter route via Jacob Hamblin Arch or extend your mileage with a few other options) and set up camp by the Jacob Hamlin Arch. This canyon is full of towering red rock walls, arches, and waterfalls—truly a gem that should be on everyones list.
- Reflection Canyon. Hiking to Reflection Canyon is a 15-mile trek that’s a bit challenging but well worth it for the stunning views of the winding canyon and clear waters. It’s a great spot for photography and some solitude. It is an unforgettable night under the stars.
You might be interested in: Best Hikes near Escalante, Utah: A list of Epic Trails
Final Thoughts
Four days in Escalante will only give you a taste of what this place has to offer—there are endless slot canyons, arches, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Be sure to bring plenty of water, check the road conditions before you go, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Whether you come back for more backpacking, slot canyons, or simply to enjoy the quiet beauty of the desert, Escalante is definitely a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.
