Is San Rafael Next?

A memo is floating around in the Obama administration indicating that two locations in Utah may be being considered for designation as National Monuments. This news infuriated members of the Utah State Legislature who are still smarting after the designation of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. But I wonder, why all the fuss? The San Rafael Swell has some of the most stunning scenery in the world.

The view from the Wedge Overlook is something someone never forgets. The campground is right on the rim, something that would probably change if this was a National Monument.

The view of Bottleneck Peak from the San Rafael River is only one of the incredible vistas from this single point. To the north is a view up a narrow winding canyon, to the east is the rugged Mexican Mountain and the eastern ridge of the Swell, and the southern view is one of Assembly Hall Peak.

Hidden throughout the Swell are Barrier Canyon style petroglyphs, many of them still untouched by vandals. We have enjoyed hiking in the Black Box, exploring the slot canyons of the Bell and Little Wild Horse drainages and watching the stars of the Milky Way from one of the most remote areas in the country. If this doesn't qualify for monument status, I don't know what would.