Head of the Rocks
Around Escalante - Utah
Our visits: So far 3 visits in February 2016, October 2014 and October 2018
Head of the Rocks Overlook
Description: Some 9.9mi outside Escalante there is a great overlook over Escalante Canyon and an area of white sandstone. We had already noticed several hoodoos here that could be seen on the hills as we drove by. In February 2016 and October 2018, we took a closer look at some of them. None of the three locations require a long hike. All three hikes were under 1.2mi. In each case, it's a little downhill and uphill over sandstone. Not really difficult. There are no paths you can move freely everywhere.
The first location is just below the Head of Rocks Overlook.
Our rating: The whole thing looked a little more promising from above than it finally turned out to be on site. Nevertheless, it is always fun to roam the area and go on the search for beautiful sandstone shapes.
Head of the Rocks - Location 2
Description: If you drive down Scenic Highway 12 a few hundred yards down the hill, you reach the second interesting location. You can park on the side of the street on the left, just opposite the junction to Spencer Flat Rd (on the right). The trail also leads to the left. Coordinate: Latitude 37.743036, Longitude -111.448207.
Our rating: Here are some big, quite nice looking hoodoos. In any case worth seeing. The detour should not take more than 20 minutes. To us, the hoodoos were worth a little stop.
Head of the Rocks - Location 3
Description: If you drive down Scenic Highway 12 another few hundred meters, you get to the third location. There is a paved bulge in the road on the right side. Here you can park. This third location is the largest and most rewarding. You could certainly spend more time exploring here. Coordinate (parking lot): Latitude 37.746306, Longitude -111.450019.
Our rating: The most interesting formed sandstone formations were here for sure. It was well worth the short stop. We can definitely recommend to get out of the car and go on a journey of discovery.
