Lower Hackberry To US 89•Grand Staircase-Escalante

​00:00     Title
00:05     Cannonville To Kodachrome Rd
01:50     South To Grosvenor Arch
09:25     South To Cottonwood Narrows
12:45     Primitive Camping
13.35     Cottonwood Narrows To Hackberry Canyon
22:14     Paria River Wetlands To Hwy 89
29:30     Fin

A series of previously published articles describe the points of interest and campsites along Cottonwood Canyon Road, which include Grosvenor Arch, Cottonwood Narrows and Hackberry Canyon. This long dirt road drive is best done as a two day trip, because there is so much to see and do along the way. Primitive dispersed camping is the only option and the 100% pack it in-pack it out rules do apply. 

As can be seen in the photos, the terrain in the south end of this park certainly is a definitive desert landscape. The Paria River meanders like a snake through the lowland canyons and it eventually fans out in a very wide flood plain that is lush with green growth. The lower tiers of the geological Grand Staircase can be easily seen, which is mostly composed of pale yellow white sandstone buttes with thick layers of gray cinder underneath. The volcanic landscape in this end of the park looks as if it was created way back when this region was covered by a deep ocean, which may be the case. 

Doing the complete Cottonwood Canyon Road tour certainly is well worth it and planning an extended stay is the best way to make the most of the trip. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is one of the very last unspoiled wilderness areas on earth and this pristine landscape beckons to be experienced. A world of adventure most definitely awaits along Cottonwood Canyon Road!