Ridge of Wonders!

This is a formation at the western edge of Utah's Kaiparowits Plateau, called The Cockscomb or The Ridge of Wonders. It lies within the 1.9 million acre Grand Staircase-Escalante Nat'l Monument or GSENM. The dirt roads and formations in this area contain potassium bentonite. When this 'absorbent clay' becomes wet, it EXPANDS and makes for slippery surfaces and impassible roads. In this part of Utah, weather can change dramatically! The rainy season lasts roughly between July-September, with thunderstorms and flash flooding. Daytime temps can exceed 100 degrees (F) in summer. If you should be trapped in a downpour with flash flooding, climb to the highest possible point. Flood conditions usually subside in 8 to 12 hours, but it is possible to be stranded for several days. Always bring a large supply of food and water when visiting this area! Photo taken in September 2007