The upper branches of the Escalante River begin their journey north of Utah's Route 12, high in the Aquarius Plateau, among the Boulder Mountains. The streams head in a southerly direction, toward the Colorado River. These branches join together just south of the towns of Boulder and Escalante and lead into the rugged lands of the North Escalante Canyons, the core of the Escalante Wilderness. Dozens of side canyons and washes contribute additional highlights to this region. These steep canyons of Navajo sandstone create a maze of scenic surprises, scattered alcoves, natural bridges, arches, and a haven for curious explorers. The BLM has identified almost two dozen archaeological sites, including petroglyph panels, granaries and ancient shelters.
This area's magnificent scenery along the Harris Wash is laced with hiking trails. One of the attractions here is Vreeland Pillars shown in this view, a natural stand of sandstone topped off with a resistant caprock. Just a few miles from the car-park, adventurous arch hunters will find Little Jumbo, the Chock Nut arches and the Vreeland Pillars.