What will I see? 

This Monument may not be what you expect. It does not have visitor centers, dining or lodging facilities, or gasoline stations, but what it does have are expansive views and the striking wild character of one of the most remote regions in the continental United States. Within this one million acre monument there is 500 million years of exposed geologic history of the Colorado Plateau, a human occupation record of over 10,000 years, and an ecological diversity that ranges from the hot Mojave Desert to cool ponderosa pine forests. Be sure to use the “Planning Your Trip” section of this website to prepare for this adventure. 

What are the roads like? 

You will find this Monument unlike any other Federal park because there are no paved roads to or within the Monument. During dry periods, most major graded dirt roads are drivable by 2-wheel drive vehicles, but un-graded or minor routes may not be passable. All roads can become impassable when wet. We recommend that you use well-equipped, high clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles with two, full-sized spare tires to travel the Monument routes. For road condition information call (435) 688-3246. 

What kind of wildlife will I see?

If you are visiting the higher elevation, forested area of the Monument, you may see two of our nonnative residents - the bushy tailed, tassel-eared Kaibab squirrel and Merriam’s turkey. Native species include mule deer, coyotes, cougar, golden eagles, various hawks, porcupines, and occasionally black bear. 

You might be surprised at the variety of fascinationg and supremely adapted creatures you can see in the Mojave Desert region of the Monument. You have to look closely because the signs of animal life are subtle. Time of day, weather, and the season of the year determine which animals are active. A large percentage of desert animals are active only at night. These are bats, foxes, owls, cougar, skunks, and most desert rodents. Birds, coyotes, and many species of lizards are active during the day, and seasonally you might be lucky to spot a desert tortoise or gila monster. 

What does the word “Parashant” mean? 

Parashant is a Paiute Family name, spelled “Parashonts” in early pioneer-era translations. One of the Monument’s large canyons, which drains into the Colorado River was named for this Paiute family but the spelling was changed to “Parashant” over the years.  

The following is a quote from a family descendant. 

“The name of my Band is Cedar Band of Paiutes. My last name, Parashonts, means Elk or large deer standing in the water. I think the spelling of the Paiute word goes something like Pah-duee'. That is my family name on my grandparents and mothers side. She was Paiute from Shivwits, as was my grandmother, Catherine Bonapart was from Shivwits also. My grandfather is Woots Parashonts, a Paiute born in Beaver County and lived in the Cedar area. I am registered under my grandfather's name with the Cedar Band of Paiutes. Our name comes from the newly created Parashonts National Monument down along the BLM Arizona Strip. That’s where my family comes from. That is a little history on my name. Thanks for thinking of me and my family. You have honored me in a good way."

Respectfully,

Travis Parashonts

Are there hiking trails? 

There are only two designated trails within the Monument - Mt. Trumbull and Mt. Dellenbaugh. Other hiking is on unmarked routes or by bushwhacking over rugged terrain. Plan for a safe trip by bringing the proper equipment and supplies needed for such a remote area. No water or supplies are available within the Monument.

How big is the monument? 

Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument, located in a remote section of the Arizona Strip in northwestern Arizona, encompasses 1,054,264 acres.