Hole-In-The-Rock road, near Escalante, is an outstanding example of one of the epic journeys undertaken in the settlement of the southern Utah region. On their way to settle the lands near the San Juan River at the call of Mormon Church leaders, Mormon pioneers ran into several geological challenges. In trying to take a shortcut to their destination, they encountered terrain nearly impossible to pass. Determined, they blasted through rugged rock region to open a path just large enough for their wagons to pass through. The project took six weeks, and only after six months of travel did the pioneers reach their destination, settling in present-day Bluff along the San Juan River.
Travelers can visit the site for a taste of the will and determination of these pioneers, but should note that four-wheel-drive off-road vehicles are recommended. Note that the 62 mile journey is on primitive roads and "primitive" means no gas, services, water or even Starbucks. Sorry! Start the trip turning south off of Highway 12, about 4 miles east of Escalante. Zero out your odometer to find the best sites. At mile 16.6, see amazing rock formations at Devil's Gardens. Along the way there are multiple springs, where the pioneers camped. The "Hole-in-the-Rock" is close to Lake Powell at mile 61.7. Adventurous and skilled outdoor types will hike the remaining trail to the shores of Lake Powell. Or, visitors can rather opt for a boat tour to the area leaving from Wahweap Marina on Lake Powell.