Utah is famous for its stunning landmarks and interesting geology. From iconic Delicate Arch to the jaw-dropping amphitheater full of hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park, there’s no shortage of eroded sandstone formations all over the Beehive State.
Check out this huge butte that stands 6,300 feet above sea level, surrounded by wrinkled badlands, on a vast, open space.
Factory Butte is part of Utah’s Upper Blue Hills, an assortment of small mesas situated on a landscape that looks like it’s on another planet.
The butte stands on a vast stretch of land in southern Utah near Hanksville. It got its name because early settlers in the area thought it had a resemblance to Provo Woolen Mills. Modern visitors might be more inclined to think of science fiction movies as they explore this barren place.
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Views from high above show that the butte is surrounded by large tentacles of wrinkled earth. It almost looks like a photo of a distant planet, light years away from planet Earth.
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The landscape certainly seems otherworldy, as though Martians could emerge from behind a ridge at any moment.
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Though aliens don’t actually live here, visitors here will likely be some of the only humans for miles. If you’re looking to get far away from civilization, this is the place to go.
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Explore the area by car or OHV. As long as the weather is dry, most vehicles can traverse the Factory Bench Road. You’ll find several interpretive signs along the way, and some primitive campsites.
muha04/iStock via Getty Images OHV riders can explore in a special recreation area, but aren’t allowed close to the butte in order to protect some of the cacti species found there.
Though it might appear that nothing could possibly grow here, there’s enough vegetation to support some cattle grazing, and in the spring, the brilliant blooms of wildflower create a bright carpet across the desert.
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Have you seen Factory Butte? Tell our readers about your adventure, and share you photos in the comments!
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Rob Reiring/flickr
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OHV riders can explore in a special recreation area, but aren’t allowed close to the butte in order to protect some of the cacti species found there.
Bobbushphoto/E+ via Getty Images
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Address: Factory Butte, Utah 84775, USA
