Desolation Canyon
Desolation Canyon is a vast and remote canyon carved by the Green River in eastern Utah, United States. It is renowned for its dramatic geological features, abundant ancient Native American rock art, and its historical significance as a route explored by John Wesley Powell. The canyon is a popular destination for river rafting, offering a challenging yet accessible experience for boaters.
Key Facts
- ›Extends for approximately 83 miles (134 km) along the Green River.
- ›Features a significant geological relief of over 5,000 feet (1,500 M) from river level to the Tavaputs Plateau rim.
- ›Rich in Fremont and Ute pictographs and petroglyphs, as well as Fremont granaries.
- ›John Wesley Powell traversed the canyon during his 1869 expedition.
- ›Contains over 60 named class two and three rapids, with some approaching class IV at high water.
- ›Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a National Historic Landmark.
River Erosion
Fremont and Ute Pictographs and Petroglyphs, Fremont Granaries, Rock Creek Ranch, Tavaputs Plateau
About Desolation Canyon
Desolation Canyon is a remote and significant river canyon situated in eastern Utah, United States, carved by the Green River. It is recognized as one of the most isolated areas within the contiguous United States. The canyon stretches for approximately 83 miles (134 km) along the Green River, forming county lines between Uintah, Carbon, Emery, and Grand counties before reaching its terminus at the Roan Cliffs. Geologically, it is framed by the West and East Tavaputs Plateaus, with a dramatic relief exceeding 5,000 feet (1,500 m) from the river's surface to the plateau rim.
History and Human Presence
The area has a deep human history, with evidence of occupation spanning several thousand years. Fremont and Ute pictographs and petroglyphs are abundant, alongside Fremont granaries, indicating a long-standing cultural connection to the land. The fertile riparian alluvial fans within Desolation Canyon were larger than in other canyons of the Colorado-Green river system, suggesting agricultural potential. The canyon gained wider recognition when John Wesley Powell navigated it in 1869 during his pioneering expedition. The Rock Creek Ranch, originally homesteaded in 1914, is notable as the last property in the canyon still in commercial use. The canyon's historical importance was further solidified when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1968.
Recreation and Access
Desolation Canyon is a premier destination for river recreation, particularly during the spring, summer, and fall. The 83-mile stretch from Sand Wash to Swasey's Rapid is a popular multi-day rafting trip, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, which issues permits for the journey. The canyon presents over 60 named rapids, ranging from class two to three, offering an ideal environment for beginner to intermediate boaters to hone their skills. At higher water levels, some rapids can escalate to class IV difficulty. Access to certain areas, such as camping or hiking on the eastern side of the river, requires an additional permit, which may have restrictions for non-tribal members.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the geological significance of Desolation Canyon?
Desolation Canyon showcases immense geological relief, with its canyon walls rising over 5,000 feet from the Green River to the Tavaputs Plateau. The canyon's formation is a testament to the erosive power of the Green River over millennia.
What activities are popular in Desolation Canyon?
The primary recreational activity is river rafting on the Green River, with an 83-mile stretch from Sand Wash to Swasey's Rapid being a popular trip. The canyon's rapids are suitable for beginner to intermediate boaters looking to develop their skills.
How can I access Desolation Canyon for recreation?
Access is typically via river trip, with permits managed by the Bureau of Land Management's Price office. Camping or hiking on the eastern side of the river requires an additional permit, which may be restricted for non-tribal members.
What is the historical importance of Desolation Canyon?
The canyon holds significant historical value due to its ancient Native American rock art, including Fremont and Ute pictographs and petroglyphs. It was also famously navigated by John Wesley Powell in 1869, and the Rock Creek Ranch within the canyon is a historic homestead.
What kind of rapids can be expected in Desolation Canyon?
Desolation Canyon features over 60 named rapids, mostly classified as class two and three. At high water levels, some rapids like Joe Hutch Canyon Rapid can approach class IV difficulty, and are substantial enough to swamp an open canoe.
Related Canyons
Gates of Lodore
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Flaming Gorge
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a protected area spanning parts of Wyoming and Utah, centered around the expansive Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Named for its striking red sandstone cliffs, the area was established in 1968 following the construction of the Flaming Gorge Dam on the Green River. It serves as a significant site for hydroelectric power generation and a popular destination for a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.
Canyons of the Escalante
The Canyons of the Escalante are a vast network of erosional landforms in southern Utah, carved by the Escalante River and its tributaries. These sandstone canyons feature high vertical walls, numerous slot canyons, waterpockets, natural arches, and hoodoos. The area is a significant part of the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, renowned for its geological history and dramatic landscapes.