Day Itinerary
5 Activities
Day 4
150 mi
Big Day off Beaten Track
It is hard not to highlight the two meals on this last day in Southern Utah. Chak Balam and Hell's Backbone have stunningly fresh and inventive fare tucked in little corners of the state. Your day will also take you to Capitol Reef National Park and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument for views and hikes. Make your way back home, staying in the Lake Powell area to break up the long drive.
14.2 mi
25 min
09:001 hr 30 min
Zebra & Tunnel Trailhead
Though the famous Hole in the Rock Road from Escalante to the fantastic Zebra and Tunnel slot canyons is unpaved, any vehicle should have no problem reaching them (as long as weather is agreeable, rain or snow may complicate the route). These slot canyons feature classic swirling red rock, and fun to hike through narrows. Take some time to check both out before heading back north to Capitol Reef.
68.3 mi
1 hr 40 min
12:1045 min
Chak Balam Mexican Restaurant
You will be positively shocked at the quality of this quaint little Mexican spot in Torrey. With endlessly fresh flavor and super reasonable prices, Chak Balam is just short of unbelievable. Don't skip the carne asada or chile relleno.
Open 7am-9pm Tuesday through Saturday, and 10am-9pm Sunday and Monday
11.7 mi
20 min
13:1545 min
Capitol Reef National Park Visitor Center
Now for the final (and quietest) National Park of the route: Capitol Reef. Though stark red sandstone formations are still the norm here, something feels a little different in Capitol Reef; perhaps it is simply more peaceful. Poke around the little Visitor Center before heading to your nice afternoon hike at Grand Wash. Center hours vary by season—call 435-425-3791 for more information.
4.7 mi
10 min
14:101 hr 30 min
Grand Wash Trailhead
Grand Wash is both quite easy and extremely impressive. You will feel dwarfed by the stark walls shooting up from the flat wash. Starting with a wider canyon, eventually you will work your way into the trail's narrows, and from afar it seems like a gate is closing. Hike as far as time allows for, with the entire trail running just over 4 miles.
51 mi
1 hr 10 min
16:551 hr
Hell's Backbone Grill & Farm
Time to start making your way home; however, definitely stop at Hell's Backbone. This restaurant on a farm is as fresh as you can get. With a seasonal menu and a beautiful patio, you will want to come back to this little corner of Utah just for this food. While mains can be somewhat expensive, they are every bit worth it as each dish is raised and prepared with care. Open daily 4-9pm.