Big Flat

Big Flat is a sandy, grass-and-tree-covered plateau along Highway 12 near mileposts 66-67 east of Escalante, and it doubles as a trailhead for one of the area's longer approaches to the Escalante River. From the flat at roughly 5,960 feet, a route crosses the highway and follows Big Flat Wash northeast before dropping steeply to the river — about 10 miles round trip, more with a side trip, and a real commitment rather than a quick stop.

What to know

• Unsignposted access track leads from the middle of the flat toward the river canyon rim
• The hike down to the Escalante River involves real elevation loss (and the gain back out) — plan for a full day
• No facilities or marked trailhead; this is Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument backcountry, so carry water and a map