The first introduction to The Maze District of Canyonlands National Park, provided by the National Parks Service, may scare away more visitors rather than entice them. This District, one of three, is the most remote and one of the most difficult to access. Glenn Canyon National Recreation Area borders The Maze on the west, and to the east, the incredible Colorado and Green River canyons.
   This Canyonlands view was taken from The Bump, located in the heart of The Maze. Pictured here is a sunlit fin of Cedar Mesa sandstone which rises up between Shot and Water canyons. As Chimney Rock rises in the distance, there's little evidence that this area of the Colorado Plateau was once a seabed. The landscape in this section of the Four Corners Region dates back 280 million years, and has since been raised (uplifted) by tectonic forces at least 5000 feet in elevation. In recent geological time the area began its long process of weathering that's seen in the landforms in every direction.
   For the adventurous and self-sufficient visitors, Shot Canyon can be accessed from Utah's Route 24 near Goblin Valley. A 45 mile gravel road leads to Hans Flat, the first leg of the journey. The remaining 37 miles is where the road gets interesting. A cautionary note calls for a high clearance, four wheel drive vehicle, equipped with a full spare, experienced driver, extra gas and a high-lift jack. The last leg may be the biggest test, as you're off on foot, over a primitive slickrock trail. The Canyonlands Maze ... truly a land of adventure!

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