Please Note: If it snowed or rained yesterday, or is snowing or raining today, do not attempt driving on any of these roads.
When water has pooled on the roads or muddy intimidating bogs block passage, turn around, staying on the road. Never drive off the road in an attempt to circumvent the blockage. Not only are you likely to get into more trouble off of the road, even damaging your vehicle, you will cause extensive damage to fragile native plant communities. Regulations do require that all vehicles must stay on designated roads.
SAFETY FIRST. Plan your way in, and PLAN YOUR WAY OUT. Make sure family/friends know what your plans are and when you expect to return. Know the extended weather forecast and adjust your plans accordingly. Carry extra clothing, blankets, food and water. Overnight lows are still often below freezing. Remember that cell phone coverage across the Monument is mostly non-existent. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument can be a "Fierce and Dangerous Land", and its wild character SHOULD NOT BE UNDERESTIMATED.
Overnight stays on the monument, whether vehicle camping or backpacking, require a free permit that can be obtained at the Monument's visitor centers. The permit system can be crucial in case a search becomes necessary.
