Ep 29. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
- April 20, 2019
- 20 min
Rock the Park is an Emmy-winning adventure series that follows hosts Jack Steward and Colton Smith as they explore some of America's most beautiful national parks. In season 4, episode 29, the hosts visit the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a rugged and remote area in southern Utah.
The episode begins with Jack and Colton hiking through the stunning rock formations that make up the Grand Staircase, a geological feature that spans millions of years of earth's history. As they make their way along the trails, the hosts stop to take in the breathtaking vistas and marvel at the unique rock formations that make this area so special.
One of the highlights of the episode is the hosts' visit to Spooky Gulch, a narrow canyon that winds its way through the sandstone landscape. Using ropes to navigate the steep drops and tight squeezes, Jack and Colton make their way deep into the canyon, where they discover hidden waterfalls and pools of cool, clear water.
Throughout the episode, Jack and Colton also meet with local experts who offer insights into the history and ecology of the Grand Staircase. They visit the nearby town of Escalante, where they speak with a local ranger who explains the unique challenges of managing this vast and remote wilderness area.
Another highlight of the episode is the hosts' visit to Hole in the Rock Road, a rocky dirt road that leads deep into the heart of the Grand Staircase. Along the way, they encounter a variety of wildlife, including herds of bison and pronghorn antelope.
The hosts also explore the nearby Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center, where they learn about the various challenges facing the park. From invasive plant species to the looming threat of climate change, the hosts gain a deeper appreciation for the efforts being made to protect this incredible area for generations to come.
As the episode comes to a close, Jack and Colton reflect on the beauty and the power of nature that they've experienced in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. With its rugged terrain, diverse wildlife, and stunning rock formations, this remote area of southern Utah is truly a national treasure.
