The Book Cliffs

Exploring: Book Cliffs

The Book Cliffs are one of the fewest used spots in Utah. During a recent trip through the area I spotted two cars in 110 miles of driving. This area features an amazing array of scenic opportunities.

During the hunting seasons the usage rises, this is one of the premier hunting regions in Utah. Plenty of deer, antelope, elk and other animals frequent the area. During our last visit there a large hawk leapfrogged ahead of us for about a half mile, seemingly leading us down the trail.

Location:

This BLM controlled land is located South of Vernal. From Salt Lake City drive East I-80 over Parley’s pass to highway 40. Continue on 40 to Vernal, drive through Vernal (being sure to fill up the gas tank). Follow the signs on the Eastern edge of town towards Bonanza. Shortly after Bonanza the road turns to dirt.

If you plan on heading North from I-70 to highway 40 get off on either exits 220 or 225.

This way is a bit steeper, the terrain rises quickly in a s
eries of switchbacks up to the rim of the Books.



About the Area:

The Book Cliffs provide scenery ranging from the red rock often seen in Southern Utah to the usual green color of the Northern Alpine regions.

The altitude ranges from around 8000 feet to 4500 feet, the differing altitude providing a variety of colors and smells.

The effects of forest fires are evident on a large portion of the area, already new life is struggling to replace the damaged forest.

If you plan on traversing the area from North to South or South to North be sure and have a map and compass. This is a confusing area with mining or oil exploration roads leading helter skelter. There are a few BLM campsites scattered about, most of these provide fire grates and a place to tie a horse up. Please attempt to find these sites, forgo building another “new” campsite.

Several old homesteads are easily found, I can only imagine the hardships these people faced.

I’m going to refrain from posting any detailed information. I feel this is an area best explored without previous knowledge, go have your own adventure.

Bob McMann

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