As our Utah adventure continued, Bill, our dogs Prince and Lennon, and I set our sights on the northern region of Lake Powell. Our first destination was Alstrom Point, a place that had long been on our bucket list. The moment we arrived, I was captivated by the stunning contrast of the blue-green waters against the red rocks. The canyons stretched out endlessly, creating a breathtaking panorama.
Alstrom Point: A Scenic Marvel
The journey to Alstrom Point was an adventure in itself. The last few miles of the road traversed over slickrock, with several branches leading to different viewpoints. Despite the occasional cairn to guide us, Bill’s decision to take Kilgharrah, our trusty jeep, off the beaten path made for an exhilarating ride. The mixture of soft sandy crossings, low vegetation, and the dramatic landscape of blue skies and red mountains was mesmerizing.
At Alstrom Point, the beauty of the landscape left me in awe. I found myself contemplating what this canyon must have looked like before Lake Powell existed, imagining its natural splendor in its untouched state.
Journey to Smoky Mountain
After soaking in the views at Alstrom Point, we traveled to Smoky Mountain. This route offered unparalleled vistas of Lake Powell, the Navajo Mountains, and the Kaiparowits Plateau. The road took us through Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and into Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, each turn revealing more of the region’s rugged beauty.
The Thrill of Kelly Grade
One of the highlights was the steep ascent up Kelly Grade near the south entrance. This narrow, switchback-filled road climbs over 1,200 feet in just five miles, providing thrilling views and heart-pounding moments. The climb was both fun and challenging, with deep canyons and dramatic drop-offs keeping us on our toes. The landscape, marked by ancient cliffs and enormous fallen boulders, was like something out of a different world.
The Mysteries of Smoky Mountain Coal Vents
Reaching the top of the Kaiparowits Plateau, we encountered the fascinating coal vents of Smoky Mountain. Here, ghosts of gray smoke swirled like genies escaping from the ground. These coal fires, believed to have been started by lightning or spontaneous combustion, have been smoldering for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years. The long fissures and ground cracks that run parallel to the cliff edge are a testament to the ongoing geological processes beneath the surface.
Reflections
Our day exploring the northern region of Lake Powell and Smoky Mountain was filled with awe-inspiring views and thrilling adventures. The stark beauty of the landscape, the intriguing coal vents, and the exhilarating drive up Kelly Grade made for an unforgettable experience. This remote and rugged area of Utah continues to reveal its secrets and splendor, reminding us of the timeless beauty and power of nature.
Western Wanderlust Chronicles 
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