Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument represents nature’s harsh grandeur perhaps better than any other place on earth. As remote as it is beautiful, this 1.87-million-acre monument in southern Utah is an incredible destination for all sorts of hikers, campers, climbers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
However, you shouldn’t head to a place like Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument without some prior knowledge and the right travel insurance. Read on to learn what you need to know about both.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers visiting Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument – FAQs
A trip to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument requires some preparation. You may have to book airfare, possibly rent a car or 4WD vehicle, or reserve lodging if you don’t plan to camp. All of these things must be paid for in advance, and they usually aren’t refundable. If you have to cancel your trip, you’ll want a way to get reimbursed. Trip cancellation insurance can provide this.
Why should I get trip cancellation insurance before traveling to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument?
There are a lot of things that could require you to cancel a vacation. You could get sick, a family member could pass away, a natural disaster could strike, you could be selected for jury duty. The list goes on.
So how can you book the trip of your dreams and protect your prepaid costs? The answer is trip cancellation insurance. It can reimburse you for eligible prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if you have to call your trip off for a covered reason.
What can be covered by trip cancellation insurance for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument?
In addition to trip cancellation coverage, most travel insurance plans can offer coverage for things like lost baggage, emergency medical care, travel delay, and trip interruption. Make sure you shop and compare different plans on this website to get one with the coverage you need.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument’s Most Popular Activities
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). As such, visitors are afforded more freedom to hike, camp and enjoy other recreation with fewer restrictions than at a National Park. However, there are also fewer resources to serve you. While you’re here, you can explore the following outdoor recreation options.
Camping
Being as this is BLM land you can enjoy primitive camping virtually anywhere you wish. However, you are asked to only utilize previously used campsites when possible to minimize human impact. For more established camping options, check out Calf Creek Campground and Deer Creek Campground in the Escalante Canyons section of the monument. There are other public and commercial camping options available in the region as well.
Hiking and Backpacking
With endless trails and nearly two million acres to explore, the hiking options of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are vast. The most popular hiking area is in the Canyons of the Escalante. Here you can see sights such as Calf Creek Falls, and the fascinating rock formations of Devils Garden, which include natural bridges.
OHV Driving and Riding
The huge network of dirt roads and trails around the monument make it a popular place for 4WD vehicles, ATVs and off-road motorcycles. However, keep in mind that it requires skills, experience, and proper equipment to navigate this terrain. Do not attempt to take a normal road car or street motorcycle into the backcountry, as there’s a good chance you could become stuck. Remember, this is extremely isolated country, so any rescue will not arrive quickly. The Little Desert Off Highway Vehicle Open Area also allows cross-country travel of non-street-legal vehicles.
Rock Climbing
The Grand Staircase is a challenging place for skilled rock climbers, and offers over 113 different routes varying in difficulty. As is the theme with this area, remember that it is extremely remote. You should not attempt difficult climbs alone, as rescue will not be close at hand if it is necessary.
Key Guidelines for Visitors to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
If the previous sections of this article have not made it clear, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a rugged and isolated area. It is very important to be prepared for the activities you intend to participate in so you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Rough Roads
Very few of the trailheads at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are accessible via paved roads. The dirt roads throughout most of the monument can range from graded and smooth dirt and gravel to rough and rocky two-track. It is recommended to use a 4WD vehicle with deeply lugged tires and high clearance for rougher roads. And keep in mind that many of these roads become impassable after rain, and it could take several days for your vehicle to be pulled out.
Extreme Temperatures
The desert of southern Utah can easily eclipse 100°F in the summer, and can drop well below freezing at night during every other season. Make sure you have the appropriate clothing and sleep system for the conditions before you head out on the trail to backpack, hike, or camp.
Few Resources
You will not find potable water throughout most of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and cellphone service is typically only available from high ridges. It is essential for you to be self-reliant. Bring ample water and food for the conditions, and strongly consider carrying a GPS tracker for backcountry excursions so you can notify authorities if you are in need of rescue.
Before You Visit Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument – Do This
- Pack all the appropriate supplies and equipment to support your intended activity with regard for the weather and your length of stay.
- Make sure you do not leave paved roads unless you have a capable 4WD vehicle and experience driving it over similar terrain.
- Purchase travel insurance that will cover you for your intended activity. Consider purchasing hazardous sports travel insurance if necessary.