After a scenic drive from Camp Verde, Arizona, we arrived in Kanab, Utah, and settled into the Grand Plateau RV Resort, which turned out to be a perfect base for our next adventure. Eager to enjoy a good meal, we headed into town for dinner at the Rocking V Café, a local gem that served up one of the best meals we’ve had on our trip so far.
The next morning, we stopped by the Kanab Visitor Center to get the latest updates on what areas were open and didn’t require permits. One spot they recommended was White Pocket in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument—a place that had been on our list of must-sees for a while. We were excited to find out that permits are not required this year (though they will be next year), so it was the perfect time to explore this hidden gem.
We took Highway 89A into the Kaibab National Forest, which was a beautiful drive in itself, before turning onto the rugged House Rock Valley Road. Along the way, we stopped at the Condor Viewing Area, where we were lucky enough to meet a biologist studying the California Condors. She kindly let us use her spotting scope to watch the condors feeding at the top of the towering Vermilion Cliffs. These majestic birds, which are critically endangered, have been the focus of conservation efforts in the region. Once on the brink of extinction, California Condors have been slowly making a comeback thanks to these efforts. Seeing them in their natural habitat was a moving experience, especially knowing the significance of their survival for the ecosystem.
From there, we continued down the 16-mile sandy White Pocket Road to the trailhead. The weather looked a bit ominous, with scattered rain showers in the distance, but we were determined to see White Pocket in all its glory. The hike into the area took us through a surreal landscape of swirling rock formations and colorful sandstone. White Pocket is a geologic wonder—its twisted, layered rock structures look like something out of a painting, with shades of red, orange, pink, and white contrasting against each other. The unique formations were created over millions of years by erosion and weathering, forming patterns that look like waves frozen in stone.
As we explored, the spotty rain showers only added to the dramatic atmosphere, enhancing the colors of the rocks and making the landscape feel even more otherworldly. At one point a beautiful rainThe place is a photographer’s dream, with every corner offering something new and fascinating to look at, from pockets of white stone domes to intricately layered ridges and towering formations.
After spending the afternoon hiking through White Pocket, we were completely captivated by the surreal beauty of this hidden gem. Every turn revealed new shapes and colors in the rock formations—each more intricate and vibrant than the last. The swirling patterns of sandstone, painted in shades of red, orange, and white, were like a masterpiece created by nature over millions of years. As we wandered through the area, we found ourselves constantly pausing to take in the changing cloudscapes overhead, which added even more drama to the already spectacular scene.
The clouds rolled in and out, casting shadows that danced across the rock formations, making the landscape feel alive. One moment the rocks seemed to glow in the dim light, and the next, they were drenched in vibrant color as the sun peeked through the storm clouds. At one point a beautiful rainbow graced the horizon. We could have stayed there for hours, completely entranced by the ever-changing light and textures.
As we made our way back along the long, sandy road, the day gave us one final gift—a spectacular sunset. The storm clouds, which had been threatening all afternoon, started to break apart just as the sun dipped toward the horizon. The fiery orange and red hues of the sunset lit up the sky, perfectly framed by the dramatic clouds. The colors seemed to reflect off the desert landscape, creating an almost magical atmosphere.
It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable day—a day filled with breathtaking landscapes, unexpected encounters, and the kind of moments that remind us just how awe-inspiring nature can be. What a great day! Click on thumbnail to view images
On our last full day in Kanab, we decided to revisit an old favorite—Alstrom Point. The drive out to the point is long, but it’s always a lot of fun, especially for anyone who loves navigating rough terrain. The road twists and turns through rugged desert landscapes, making the journey an adventure in itself—truly a Jeep owner’s dream!
Even though we’ve been to Alstrom Point many times and have even camped out there, it never loses its magic. The stunning overlook above Lake Powell always leaves us in awe, and this time was no different. The storm clouds in the distance added an extra layer of drama to the scene, with the moody skies creating a striking contrast against the bright reds and oranges of the desert.
We sat there for a while, taking in the sweeping views and reflecting on how special this place is to us. No matter how often we come back, it always feels like a new experience. It was the perfect way to cap off this year’s stay in this very special part of Utah and Arizona. What a great way to finish our trip!