A remote and massive national monument in northern Arizona, Grand Canyon–Parashant preserves pristine high plateaus, deep canyons, volcanic landscapes, rare biology, and archaeological wonders. It is a frontier for exploration and solitude on the edge of the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument is a 1.25-million-acre protected area established in 2000. Managed by the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management, it offers rugged, largely undeveloped wilderness stretching from the Grand Canyon’s North Rim to the Arizona-Utah border. The monument safeguards a variety of geological formations, diverse ecosystems, and historical sites including ancient cliff dwellings and mining relics .
Overview
Grand Canyon–Parashant is defined by its remote isolation, geological wonders, cultural history, and vast natural beauty. The monument protects a section of the Grand Canyon’s northern reaches as well as surrounding plateaus, volcanic features, and desert landscapes.
- The monument encompasses a long human history over 11,000 years, featuring evidence from early Native American inhabitants and later settlers .
- It preserves nearly two billion years of geologic history, including ancient rock layers, volcanic features, and dramatic canyon scenery .
- Parashant is remote and largely undeveloped, with very limited road access, no entrance fees, and minimal visitor infrastructure, offering true wilderness and solitude .
Plan Your Visit—Access & Activities
Grand Canyon–Parashant is an adventurer’s destination requiring preparation. The monument is accessible mostly by high-clearance or 4WD vehicles, and many areas demand hiking or exploration by foot.
Main Access Points & Visitor Information
The monument does not have gated entrances or paved highways through it. Key access points include:
- Mount Trumbull and Mount Logan roads – seasonally accessible dirt roads leading to scenic viewpoints and old mines.
- Vineyard, Hoover, and Grand Gulch Mines – remote sites reachable by rugged roads for those prepared for backcountry travel.
- Ranger and visitor information are provided by the Public Lands Visitor Center in St. George, Utah, and also through online resources .
Scenic Drives & Remote Destinations by Vehicle
Hundreds of miles of backcountry roads (mostly unpaved) lead to incredible scenery and remote destinations:
- Mount Trumbull Scenic Road provides views of ancient lava flows and access to the historic Mount Trumbull Schoolhouse.
- Grand Gulch Mine Road leads to the Grand Gulch Mine, a remote archaeological site with mining ruins.
- Vineyard Mine Road accesses the Vineyard Mine, showcasing mining history and desert geology .
Hiking, Exploration & Camping
Visitors can explore off-trail wilderness, hike into canyons, and camp under wide-open skies:
- Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the monument with no fees or reservations. Campers should practice Leave No Trace and be self-sufficient .
- Hiking opportunities are off the beaten path and often unmarked, requiring navigation skills and preparation for rugged terrain.
- There are no developed trails or ranger stations within the monument—true wilderness skills are essential for safe travel .
Management & Safety
Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument is co-managed by the National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management. Visitor safety, vehicle requirements, and wilderness etiquette are priorities.
- Visitors are advised to use high-clearance 4WD vehicles for most interior roads and to be prepared for remote travel conditions, including carrying extra water and supplies .
- There are no entrance fees, and the monument is open year-round, though some roads may close due to weather or seasonal conditions .
- Ranger-led programs or direct monument staffing are extremely limited; most visitor interaction is remote or through partner agencies .
Additional NPS Resources:
- Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument | Plan Your Visit
- Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument | NPS
- Public Lands Visitor Center - Saint George, UT
- Camping - Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument
- Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
- Travel Safety & Vehicle Recommendations
- Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument - Nature
These resources offer more details on how to prepare for a safe and rewarding visit to one of the most remote and wild places managed by the National Park Service .
Links
Last updated: Sat Jun 7, 2025
