Powell Point - Escalante Mountains, UT

Overview: Powell Point is a spectacular viewpoint at the southern end of the Table Cliff Plateau in Utah's Escalante Mountains. At 10,000', the point provides sweeping 270° views of southern Utah.


Hike: Depending on your vehicle, the hike to Powell Point can be as short as 1.60 miles round trip, or as long as 9.10 miles round trip.2WD parking: Park your vehicle at the intersection of FS-132 & FS-143, which is signed for Powell Point. Walk south down FS-143. Vegetation is pine, spruce, and fir, and passes through a couple of meadows and past some lovely places to camp. As the road heads south, it moves towards the east side of Table Cliff Plateau, which provides some views to the east. The road is reasonably level, generally staying at an elevation of 10,200', but there are some small ups and downs that do add up. At 3.75 miles, you will reach the official trailhead.

4WD parking/Official trailhead: From the official trailhead, head south on the trail past the sign. The trail heads west, then east on a large switchback as it heads downhill. The trail turns south across a spine, then regains elevation. Views to the west are best at this point, but as you near the end of the plateau, you can see in all directions across southern Utah. Vegetation shifts to bristlecone and limber pines as you approach Powell Point. There is an interpretive sign at the end of the trail. Plenty of room to walk around and take pictures. When done, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Warning: The limestone slopes at the edge of the plateau are steep and slippery, use caution near the cliff edges, sometimes the traction is as exciting as walking on marbles if you venture off-trail. Summer thunderstorms also gather above the plateau, do not stand near the cliff edges if lightning is nearby.

2020-08-02 LindaAnn