Exploring the San Rafael Swell

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The San Rafael Swell encompasses 2,000 square miles and contains numerous outdoor activities. Sandy desert breaks on sandstone cliffs and winding canyons give you ample opportunity to explore in this nearly untouched wilderness. It's one of the most beautiful destination spots in Utah, which says a lot in a state that's also home to the "Mighty Five" national parks.

How the Swell Swelled

The San Rafael Swell is a massive geologic uplift. That's the scientific term for the process of building a mountain range. Millions of years ago, give or take a decade, the surface of the Earth was very mobile in Utah. Tectonic activity pushed all that rock upwards, revealing deeply buried strata and a whole new landscape.

For adventure enthusiasts, there's plenty to do while also admiring the stunning natural landscape. Also, some of its most iconic sites are surprisingly accessible, making it an ideal destination for both casual explorers and seasoned adventurers. Hiking, biking, off-roading and rafting are just the start. Rock climbers and canyoneers also have numerous local options, and dispersed camping is available for those who prefer to sleep under the stars. Below is a small glimpse into some of the most accessible sites to see while visiting the swell.

Buckhorn Wash Petroglyphs: An Accessible Adventure

Walk along the 130-foot-long display of ancient rock art, the Buckhorn Wash Petroglyphs. Featuring the distinctive red pigment commonly used in Barrier Canyon-style art, the images of ghost-like humanoid figures are a window into the ancient world of hunter-gatherers.

These images are suspected to be more than 2,000 years old and remain among the best-preserved and largest examples of this type of art in the world. Plus, it's one of the most accessible sites since you can visit with a ride along I-70 and a short walk once you arrive in Buckthorn Draw.

The Swinging Bridge and Hidden Features

If you're already in Buckhorn Draw for the petroglyphs, you might as well visit the historic swinging bridge. Built in 1937, this 160-foot suspension bridge was used by vehicles all the way up until the '90s, and it's still open for pedestrian traffic today. That means you can get one-of-a-kind shots from the middle of the bridge and still access the other nearby hidden treasures.

Features like the MK (Moore/Kettleman) tunnels—short passages carved through rock for access routes tied to the Swell’s mining and ranching past—are also worth a visit and more than a few photographs.

The Wedge Overlook: Utah’s “Little Grand Canyon”

If a visit to the Grand Canyon is something you keep putting off due to the crowds, check out Utah's "Little Grand Canyon" instead. The Wedge Overlook in the Swell offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country. With similar scenery to the Grand Canyon, you'll look over 1,200 feet of elevation all the way down to the canyon floor and the San Rafael River. Striations of different-colored rocks decorate the view and glow in stunning shades of red, orange and gold as the sun rises and sets over the Swell.

A Rich and Rugged History

While many visitors focus on the ancient origins of San Rafael Swell, it's also a historic example of developing communities in the West from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this period, the region saw waves of exploration tied to mining, ranching and railroad expansion. Remote and difficult to access, the Swell became an unforgiving frontier.

Utah's Polished Hidden Gems

The untouched natural beauty of the San Rafael Swell seamlessly combines jaw-dropping scenery with ancient art. If you want to explore beyond the famous sites and into the pristine wilderness, spend some time exploring the Swell.