<\/p>\n
A masterpiece of red rock geology awaits visitors at Valley of the Gods in southeast Utah.<\/p>\n
The BLM area of towering spires, mesas, and whimsical rock formations is a hidden gem for recreationists and photographers.<\/p>\n
Similar to nearby Monument Valley on the Navajo Nation, Valley of the Gods is different in that it is on public land and therefore more accessible.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is free and completely open to the public,\u201d said Brian Quigley, a BLM field manager for the area. \u201cThe scenic drive through there is spectacular, and dispersed car camping is allowed on side roads.\u201d<\/p>\n
The vast desert area is located 15 miles west of Bluff, Utah.<\/p>\n
A 17-mile well-maintained dirt road through the valley passes rock formations with names such as Lady in a Tub, Balanced Rock, Castle Butte, and Seven Sailors.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever it is more fun to make names for yourself based on what you think they look like,\u201d states a BLM sign.<\/p>\n
There is some nice hiking on the primitive Lime Creek road, and rock climbing is permitted throughout the BLM area.<\/p>\n
The most popular activity is to drive, or bicycle, a 28-mile loop through the valley connecting to Highway 261, and Highway 163. Vehicles must stay on designated routes.<\/p>\n
The road is accessible for most passenger cars. However, when wet it quickly becomes impassable even for four-wheel vehicles because the sandstone turns into slippery grease.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve had quite a few tows out of there so watch the weather,\u201d Quigley said.<\/p>\n
The area was once giant sand dune on the edge of a great inland sea during the Permian Age, 250 million years ago. The statuesque formations of Cedar Mesa sandstone were sculpted over millions of years by water erosion, wind, and ice.<\/p>\n
The nearby Navajo tribe interprets the rock formations as places of power in which spirits reside.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese imposing monoliths are Navajo warriors frozen in stone,\u201d writes author Robert S. McPherson. \u201cThey are the guardians whose power and strength aid young servicemen going to war.\u201d<\/p>\n
The classic Western look of the area attracts film crews for movies, commercials and background shots for a Play Station game.<\/p>\n
Especially popular is the annual Bluff Internationl Balloon festival that takes place in Valley of the Gods. The event will take place from January 16-18, 2015.<\/p>\n