Between 1829 and 1848, the Old Spanish Trail served as a vital trade route connecting Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Los Angeles, California, regions then under Northern Mexico. Later, in 1853, Captain John W. Gunnison’s expedition explored parts of this trail in search of a railway passage. During this expedition, geologist Richard Kern sketched and named a remarkable geologic feature – Idol Rock. The rediscovery of Kern’s sketch in modern times played a crucial role in confirming the location of Idol Rock and, consequently, validating sections of the Old Spanish Trail itself.
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Discovering Idol Rock in Emery County, Utah
Idol Rock stands prominently in Emery County, Utah, marking the northern edge of the San Rafael Swell. This towering sandstone formation dramatically punctuates the landscape, making it easily visible from the historic Old Spanish Trail. Its sheer size and unique shape command attention, offering a striking landmark in this remote region.
The terrain surrounding Idol Rock is characterized by aridity, dotted with sagebrush and hardy cottonwood trees. The journey to Idol Rock takes you through parts of the San Rafael Swell, a vast geological wonder shaped by uplift and erosion over millennia. This natural process has sculpted a diverse topography of valleys, canyons, mesas, and buttes, creating a breathtaking panorama that unfolds as you delve deeper into the area. This geological context is key to understanding how old the rock is; the sandstone formations here are millions of years old, a testament to the Earth’s long history.
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Planning Your Visit to See How Old the Rock Is
Reaching Idol Rock requires careful planning. Access to this remote site necessitates a vehicle with 4WD and high clearance, and it’s crucial to avoid travel during or after rain due to impassable conditions. Remember, amenities are non-existent here, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency. A small pull-off area near an interpretive sign provides limited parking.
As you venture towards Idol Rock, keep an eye out for other historical and cultural remnants that speak to the area’s past as part of the Old Spanish Trail. Stone culverts, remnants of railroad grades, and dugways are scattered throughout, particularly along ATV trails, offering tangible links to the travelers and pioneers who once traversed this land. Exploring this area provides a unique opportunity to connect with both the natural history, evidenced by how old the rock is, and the human history interwoven with the Old Spanish Trail.
For safety considerations when visiting remote sites like Idol Rock, refer to the National Park Service safety guidelines.
For further information about the area, you can visit the Bureau of Land Management Price Field Office website.
To enhance your experience, an audio description of the exhibit is available.
Learn more about the Old Spanish National Historic Trail and plan your journey along this historic route Old Spanish National Historic Trail.
