The Aquarius Plateau is the highest timbered plateau in North America. Crossing the plateau, Griffin Top and Posey Lake Roads are narrow single lane dirt and gravel roads that are accessible to passenger cars. They will take you through the Dixie National Forest and provide views of the surrounding canyons from the plateau rim. They also access Posey Lake, the Box Death Hollow Wilderness Area, wildlife opportunities, camping, and fishing.
Hell's Backbone, three miles west of the town of Boulder, is one of the most dramatic stretches of road in the world. Aptly named, this road connects two mountains by traveling along a ridge with a sheer drop on both sides. It is best to concentrate on the road. The scenery is spectacular and the view easily takes the visitor's breath away.
Boulder Mountain Recreation Area sits upon the Aquarius Plateau and is generally north of the town of Boulder, along Highway 12. The summit, at 9,670 feet above sea level, offers spectacular views of southern Utah, the Circle Cliffs, the Waterpocket Fold, the Henry Mountains, Lake Powell, Canyonlands, and, on a clear day, sights as far as 100 miles away. Numerous small streams and secluded lakes provide excellent fishing and back country camping opportunities. Three organized campgrounds are easily accessible.
Mule deer, elk, wild turkey and other wildlife can be found in the tall stands of timber and open meadows. The Great Western Trail, reaching from Canada to Mexico, crosses Boulder Mountain and offers hikers a rugged look at one of America's last frontiers. There are five access points to the GWT along Highway 12, with four located on Boulder Mountain: Sunflower Flat Road; Pleasant Creek Road; Deer Creek Road; and, the North Slope Road.
Powell Point, at an elevation of 10,188 feet, is a superb viewpoint at the southern tip of the Table Cliff Plateau, a southwestern extension of the Aquarius Plateau. These light-colored cliffs stand about 15 air miles northeast of Sunset Point in Bryce Canyon. Check with the Escalante Ranger District office for directions and current road conditions.
On the way to the point you'll pass through an extremely weather-beaten and picturesque forest of Bristlecone and Limber pine. Panoramic views begin well before the trail's end. At the point itself you'll feel as though you're at the end of the world. Much of southern Utah and northern Arizona stretches out below to the far horizon. The colorful cliffs of the Claron Formation lie directly underfoot. Take care near the crumbly edges. ( See our Personal Notes. ) |
| Directions: |
The Aquarius Plateau is the raised hub around which scenic Highway 12 rotates. Entrance can be gained from many points along that route.
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| Coordinates: |
Map Coordinates (NAD83): 38 05.042N; 111 36.310W. |
