Valley of the Gods

by Ben Prepelka

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Valley of the Gods

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Ben Prepelka

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Because there are so many popular sights in and around Blanding, Utah, a scenic drive through the Valley of the Gods is often overlooked. For some travelers this off-road route is one of those must see red rock country adventures. Keeping a sharp lookout, sightseers will find the valley just to the west of the small town of Bluff on Route 163. A thin sign points the way to the valley, which is lying at the base of a very imposing Cedar Mesa. This unique plateau, soaring to 7000 feet or more, puts up a wonderful backdrop for the valley drive. Here in the Valley of the Gods a 20 mile dirt and gravel road winds through a magnificent collection of red sandstone buttes and spires, much like the America's most famous red-rock setting to the south. The desert drive may be safe for two-wheel drive vehicles, but it's best to avoid it during a forecast of rainy weather.
 Reminding many of Arizona's famous Monument Valley just across the border, it's a sure bet there are no crowds in the Valley of the Gods. At the eastern entrance some sightseers may have second thoughts as the road initially crosses a shallow wash. Usually the wash is flowing with just a trickle of water, and the remainder of the way is relative smooth sailing.

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April 10th, 2022

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