USA Yellow Rock

Monolithic dome of brilliant red, orange, YELLOW, and white sandstone swirls.

It’s worth exploring the entire monolith and the relatively easy scramble to the top affords great 360° views. The southern slope has the most brilliant colors though.

From Highway 89 between Page, AZ and Kanab, UT drive to between mileposts 17-18 and turn north on the dirt Cottonwood Road. Drive 14.1 miles to a small gravel/dirt parking area on the right. Brigham Plains Road branches to the right at this spot. Park there and walk across the road to the narrow foot path leading to Cottonwood Wash. Cross the usually dry wash and follow the trail westward about 50-75 yards until you see a trail on the right side of the canyon that leads up what looks like an old rock slide. The path climbs VERY steeply on loose rock and sand to a ridge then bends left, heading towards the massive form of Yellow Rock. This is the most strenuous part of the hike but the hike up to the ridge is only about 300-400 yards long. Once you get to the ridge, you can see the huge yellow dome of rock in the distance. The path is cairned at fairly regular intervals where it travels over slick rock. It’s very important that when you arrive at the base of the dome, make note of where you are so you’ll know where to begin your return hike to your vehicle. A wrong turn could cost you hours and the route you came down is also the safest way back up.