[jotog]

My wife and I are thinking of backpacking Escalante Canyon. We hiked there years ago. Does anyone know if we'd need a permit, or special permissions to hike there now? I'm doing an internet search, too, but I thought I'd throw this out. If you have a remote riding or hiking location in eastern Utah that you're willing to share, please do. Thanks in advance. Joe

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[bondiblue]

I've been backpacking twice in the Escalante area in the past few years. The first was in two side canyons (we didn't have enough time to get to the actual Escalante river, though we tried), the second time we spent most of our nights on sites in the Escalante canyon (though far enough away from the river in case of something like this (http://youtube.com/watch?v=-GsN-cSSwms)). As you probably remember, quite amazing area! I'm guessing not much has changed since you were there last.

Both times we had to get permits (I can't even remember how much they cost, if anything) for ourselves and our vehicle at the Interagency Visitor Center just outside of Escalante (http://www.ut.blm.gov/monument/visitor-centers.php). They just finished it recently, and I would have spent some more time there had we not been so eager to get out into canyon country (why watch a documentary about the wilderness when its minutes away?). The rangers there will know the latest conditions of Hole-in-the-rock Road.

When are you planning on going?
Also, if you haven't read Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey, you must do so before you go, or better yet, while you are down in the canyons.

[jotog]

bondiblue, Thanks for the links! Spooky flashflood...kinda keeps the excitement level going. I'm still open for suggestions if anyone wants to contribute. Edward Abbey is THE MAN! I would definitely pack him along. Thanks for the reminder. We're hoping to be outing in April...biking and hiking. If anyone has suggestions, please post them. Thanks again.