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Backpack the Escalante River to Coyote Gulch

AdventureChallengingSpringFall

Trek through a lush riparian canyon to see Jacob Hamblin Arch and Stevens Arch, two of the desert's grandest spans.

Itinerary tips

  • 1Secure your free backcountry permit at the Interagency Visitor Center in Escalante before heading down Hole-in-the-Rock Road.
  • 2Plan for at least 3 to 4 days to account for slow travel through sandy riverbeds and time to explore side canyons.
  • 3Pack lightweight water shoes or sandals with straps, as you will be performing dozens of river crossings throughout the trek.
  • 4Carry a high-quality water filter and be prepared to settle silty river water in a collapsible bucket before filtering.
  • 5Use the Forty-Mile Ridge trailhead if you want a shorter but more technical entry via the 'Crack-in-the-Wall' route.
  • 6Bring a 30-foot paracord to safely lower your packs if you choose the steep scramble entrance near Jacob Hamblin Arch.

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