If you’ve ever visited the San Rafael Swell, you can see why its nickname is “Utah’s Little Grand Canyon.” This vast area of canyons, gorges, mesas, and buttes inspires awe and captures the imagination. The Wedge is a particularly breath-taking part of the Swell, and it’s even more spectacular in the winter. Check it out:
Arizona might have The Grand Canyon, but Utah has the San Rafael Swell, and one of its most stunning features is The Wedge - a vast canyon with the nickname of “Utah’s Little Grand Canyon.”
Mike Scriver/Google
The San Rafael Swell is 75 miles long and 40 miles wide. It includes slot canyons (like Little Wild Horse Canyon, shown here), as well as deep gorges…
Ken Lund/flickr
…and stunning landscapes. During winter months, this place becomes even more spectacular.
Carl Berger Sr./Flickr
A smattering of snow gives this vast canyon new dimension. It’s easier to see the unique variations of the rock formations when they’re covered with just a dusting of white powder.
Mike Scriver/Google
Sunrises and sunsets are chilly, and the light has an ethereal quality. Photographers love to capture the beauty here year-round, but winter is truly special.
Marian Meldrum/Google
When the chilly fog rolls in, this vast landscape is a little bit eerie.
Ky Burton/Google
The Wedge Overlook has several different viewpoints where you can soak in the wintry beauty from above.
Marian Meldrum/Google
Watch for the interpretive signs that tell you about the millions of years of geologic history here.
Washbucket/Google
Much of the wildlife that calls The Swell home is still active during winter months. Keep an eye out for the bighorn sheep who graze through the area.
charles.bukowsky/flickr
At its higher elevations of nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, The Swell can get quite a bit of snow.
charles.bukowsky/flickr
The dirt and gravel road that takes you to The Wedge Overlook is typically easy for two-wheel-drive vehicles to navigate, but when the road is snowy and icy, conditions will be more treacherous.
Washbucket/Google
Have you visited the San Rafael Swell and peered over The Wedge Overlook lately? Tell us about your visit, and share your photos in the comments!
Mike Scriver/Google
Ken Lund/flickr
Carl Berger Sr./Flickr
Marian Meldrum/Google
Ky Burton/Google
Washbucket/Google
charles.bukowsky/flickr
If you love Utah’s beautiful outdoors, you might want to join our Utah Nature Lovers Group on Facebook. You’ll see tons of gorgeous photos posted by local photographers, and can even share your own.
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Address: San Rafael Swell, Utah, USA
