At the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah you will find this impressive alcove at the end of the Jacob Hamblin Arch in Coyote Gulch. While you can experience Coyote Gulch as a day-hike, many choose to spend 2-4 nights backpacking the area to take in the full canyon experience. That’s what photographer John Fowler did, who recalls:

“I camped in this huge alcove off the end of Jacob Hamblin arch. It is probably 150 feet high and 400 feet wide. The creek bends around the perimeter of the alcove. I had thought that the overhang would protect me from rain, but it did drizzle some and the wind brought some spray in. Also, there was some dust when the wind blew, so eventually I did put up my tent. The echo in this place is fabulous.”

 

According to Wild Backpacker, use of the area is free but you must still obtain a backcountry permit. Dogs and campfires are not allowed and the best seasons for backpacking Coyote Gulch are spring (March to mid-June) and fall September to October). For more extensive hiking and trail info, check out the full post on Wild Backpacker.