Parriott Mesa Trail

Starting near Grand County, Utah, the Parriott Mesa Trail is an invigorating out-and-back hike that spans approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) with an elevation gain of around 300 meters (984 feet). This trail offers a moderate challenge, making it suitable for hikers with some experience.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If you're driving, head towards Castle Valley, Utah. The nearest significant landmark is the Castle Valley Town Hall, located at 2 Castle Valley Dr, Castle Valley, UT 84532. From there, it's a short drive to the trailhead. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or using a rideshare service from Moab, which is about 30 minutes away, is advisable.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a desert landscape characterized by red rock formations and sparse vegetation. As you progress, the path becomes steeper and more rugged, requiring careful footing. The initial 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) are relatively easy, with an elevation gain of about 100 meters (328 feet).

### Significant Landmarks At approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll encounter a prominent rock formation known as the "Sentinel." This natural landmark offers a great spot for a short break and some photography. Continuing past the Sentinel, the trail becomes more challenging, with steeper inclines and loose rocks.

### Flora and Fauna The Parriott Mesa Trail is home to a variety of desert flora, including sagebrush, juniper, and pinyon pine. Wildlife sightings are common, with lizards, snakes, and occasionally, desert bighorn sheep making appearances. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting species like the golden eagle and peregrine falcon.

### Historical Significance The region around Parriott Mesa has a rich history, with evidence of Native American habitation dating back thousands of years. Petroglyphs and ancient artifacts have been found in the area, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your hike. The mesa itself is named after a local rancher, William Parriott, who settled in the area in the late 19th century.

### Final Ascent The final stretch of the trail is the most demanding, with an elevation gain of about 200 meters (656 feet) over the last 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles). The path narrows and becomes rockier, requiring careful navigation. Using a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER is highly recommended to stay on track.

### Reaching the Summit Upon reaching the summit of Parriott Mesa, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape, including the La Sal Mountains to the southeast and the Colorado River to the west. The expansive vistas make the challenging ascent well worth the effort.

### Descent The return journey follows the same path back to the trailhead. While descending, take your time to enjoy the changing perspectives and ensure your footing on the steeper sections.

This hike offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for those prepared to tackle its rugged terrain.