Richard Budde - Hanksville

I first discovered this area while watching YouTube videos during COVID. It is a very beautiful area which I briefly visited in May 2021 and more extensively visited in October 2022. Photos from both visits are included below.

Hanksville Utah: A Hidden Gem in the Desert

If you are looking for a place to explore the natural wonders of southern Utah, you might want to consider Hanksville as your basecamp. Hanksville is a small town with a rich history and a friendly community, located at the junction of State Routes 24 and 95. It is surrounded by some of the most spectacular landscapes in the region, including Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, Canyonlands National Park, and the Henry Mountains.

Hanksville was founded in 1882 by Ebenezer Hanks, a pioneer and explorer who settled in the valley along the Fremont River. The town was a supply post for outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch, who hid out in the nearby Robbers Roost. It was also a mining center during the uranium boom after World War II. Today, Hanksville is a peaceful town that offers a variety of services and amenities for visitors, such as food, fuel, lodging, and off-road rentals.

Hanksville is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the beauty and diversity of southern Utah. You can hike, bike, camp, boat, climb, off-road, or just simply sightsee in some of the most scenic places in the state. You can also learn about the history and culture of the area by visiting attractions like Hollow Mountain, Little Egypt Geologic Site, The Wolverton Mill, and Angel Point. Whether you are looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing getaway, Hanksville has something for everyone.

Hanksville Utah is a hidden gem in the desert that you don't want to miss. Visit their official website at www.hanksvilleutah.gov to learn more about this amazing town and plan your trip today!

Factory Butte Road

This road is reached 12 miles along Highway 24 heading west from Hanksville

About Factory Butte

Factory Butte

Swing Arm City

Factory Butte

Swing Arm City

Factory Butte

Highway 24

On the way from I-70 to Hanksville

Highway 95

Heading south from Hanksville

About Highway 95

Mars Research Project

This road is reached about 4 miles along Highway 24 heading west from Hanksville

About Mars Research Project

Bentonite Hills

Skyline Overlook

The rough road to this overlook is reached from along the Factory Butte Road

Video

San Rafael Swell

Reached from Exit 131 on I-70 west of Highway 24. The photos here are from along the road heading north. The southern section is reached from the same exit. When we inquired at the BLM office in Hanksville, we were told that the southern section should probably not be attempted without a four-wheel drive vehicle.

About San Rafael Swell