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Tag: hike

  • Thanks for Supporting Local Business

    When you choose to stay at Liberty Vacation Rentals in Southern Utah, you’re not just booking a cozy home-away-from-home, you’re supporting a local business that’s deeply rooted in our vibrant and small community. We’re featured on Airbnb (with a high rating) and we believe that supporting local businesses is the heartbeat of a thriving region, and here’s why it matters.

    Local businesses like ours fuel the economy of Southern Utah. When you book one of our carefully curated vacation rentals, your dollars stay in the community, creating jobs and fostering growth. From our dedicated cleaning staff to local maintenance team, every booking directly supports hardworking families in the area. This ripple effect strengthens the region, ensuring that the stunning landscapes of the nearby national parks, Lake Powell, and beyond, remain accessible and well-maintained for future visitors.

    Beyond economics, choosing local enhances your travel experience. At Liberty Vacation Rentals, we’re not a faceless corporation—we’re your neighbors, passionate about showcasing Southern Utah’s beauty. Our team offers insider tips on the best hiking trails, hidden gem restaurants, and family-friendly activities, giving you an authentic, personalized adventure. Supporting us means you’re investing in a stay that’s tailored to your needs, with the warmth and care only a local business can provide.

    Moreover, local businesses are committed to sustainability. We prioritize eco-friendly practices, like using solar energy, finding local suppliers, and reducing waste, to preserve Southern Utah’s breathtaking environment. By choosing us, you’re contributing to a greener future for this stunning destination, and you get a great rate on our apartment suites (with kitchen, private laundry, and separate bedrooms), when compared to nearby hotels.

    So remember to support local, embrace authenticity, and make a lasting impact on Southern Utah’s community—one stay at a time.

  • The Winter Wonders of Southern Utah

    The winter season is a great travel time for die-hard nature lovers.

    As the chill of winter blankets much of the country Southern Utah transforms into a serene and uniquely beautiful landscape, making it an ideal off-season travel destination.


    Here’s why you should consider visiting during the colder months:

    1. Fewer Crowds: One of the most compelling reasons to visit Southern Utah in winter is the dramatic decrease in tourist traffic. Iconic parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches see a significant drop in visitors, allowing you to experience these breathtaking vistas in peace. This solitude not only enhances your connection with nature but also means shorter lines, easier parking, and a more personal experience with the natural wonders.

    2. Stunning Winter Scenery: Winter in Southern Utah paints a different picture than the usual desert hues. Snow-capped red rock formations, frozen waterfalls, and frost-covered hoodoos create a magical contrast that’s rare to see. The landscape takes on a new life, offering photographers and nature lovers an entirely different palette to explore.

    3. Cooler Temperatures: Hiking in the summer can be grueling due to the heat, but winter provides cooler, more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. While you’ll need to pack layers, the generally mild temperatures make for pleasant daytime exploration without the risk of heat exhaustion.

    4. Special Winter Activities: The winter season brings unique activities not available in other seasons. Snowshoeing through Bryce Canyon or cross-country skiing in the quieter corners of Zion are experiences that combine adventure with the tranquility of winter. Moreover, winter festivals and holiday events in nearby towns like St. George provide cultural enrichment.

    5. Lower Prices: Traveling in the off-season often means better deals on accommodations, tours, and even flight tickets if you’re flying into a nearby airport like Las Vegas or Salt Lake City. This affordability can make an extended stay or multiple park visits more feasible.

    Southern Utah in winter isn’t just about escaping the cold; it’s about embracing a quieter, more reflective side of nature, offering a fresh perspective on some of America’s most famous landscapes. Whether you’re looking to hike, photograph, or simply soak in the serene beauty, winter here promises a unique and enriching experience.

  • Explore More of Southern Utah

    As the days grow longer and warmer, many of us start dreaming of summer vacations filled with adventure and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a destination that offers stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, look no further than Southern Utah.

    Southern Utah is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable vacation experience. From towering red rock formations to serene national parks such as Zion and Bryce, this region has something for everyone.

    One of the must-visit destinations in Southern Utah is Zion National Park. Known for its breathtaking canyons, emerald pools, and diverse wildlife, Zion offers endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The iconic Angel’s Landing hike is a thrilling adventure that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the park’s stunning landscape.

    For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider exploring Bryce Canyon National Park. Famous for its hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that create a surreal landscape—Bryce Canyon is a paradise for hikers and photographers. The park’s scenic overlooks, such as Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, offer mesmerizing vistas that are especially beautiful during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

    If you’re craving water-based activities, Southern Utah has you covered as well. Lake Powell, a reservoir on the Colorado River, is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and fishing. With its crystal-clear waters and red rock backdrop, Lake Powell provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Liberty Vacation Rentals is just a few minutes from this lake, at Lone Rock Beach.

    After a day of adventure, unwind in one of Southern Utah’s charming towns, such as Kanab or Springdale. These quaint communities offer a range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.

    In addition to its natural beauty, Southern Utah also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Explore ancient Native American sites, such as the ruins at Mesa Verde or the petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock, to gain insight into the region’s history and heritage.

    Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful moments in nature, Southern Utah has it all. Plan your summer vacation in this breathtaking region and prepare for an unforgettable adventure amidst some of America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

  • The Low-Down on Lake Powell

    The Low-Down on Lake Powell

    Greetings, travelers. I want you to know this is a real post generated by a real person. That’s me, Adam Wagener, the proprietor of Liberty Vacation Rental. I’ve lived in this area for over 10 years, and I want to clarify a few things. For starters, the lake has plenty of water, and is still doing what it was meant to do:

    – it’s a fun place for water sports in the summer time
    – it’s still fun and peaceful in the winter (although, less busy)
    – it’s generating hydro-electric power via the dam (green energy)
    – it’s a habitat for a myriad of unique wildlife

    Lake Powell is a stunning reservoir located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, straddling the border between Utah and Arizona in the United States. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

    In 2023, you can expect to find a wide range of activities and attractions at Lake Powell. The lake itself offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can rent a houseboat and spend your days exploring the crystal-clear waters, or take a guided tour to discover hidden coves and majestic rock formations.

    If you’re into hiking, there are several trails in the area that offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding canyons. Some popular hikes include the Hanging Garden Trail, the Rainbow Bridge Trail, and the Horseshoe Bend Trail. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert heat can be intense.

    For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the nearby Navajo Nation is a must. You can learn about the rich Native American heritage of the area and even participate in traditional ceremonies and events. The Navajo Nation also offers unique shopping opportunities, where you can find beautiful handmade crafts and jewelry.

    When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of options to choose from, including Liberty Vacation Rentals! There are many hotels and resorts in the area, or if you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider camping at one of the campgrounds near the lake. Just make sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as Lake Powell is a popular destination and tends to fill up quickly, especially on holiday weekends. Booking early can help you avoid price gouging, at some hotels.

    In terms of dining, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes in the nearby towns of Page, Arizona, and Kanab, Utah. From casual eateries serving up classic American fare to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, and authentic Western places, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

    Overall, a trip to Lake Powell in 2024 should be an unforgettable experience. With its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a destination that has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime at Lake Powell!

  • The New Artist’s Studio

    The New Artist’s Studio

    Well… we were getting requests from travelers who were desperate for a last-minute room to rent. Hotels were full. We were full. We didn’t want people to have to sleep in their cars out here in the desert, so we got an idea.

    We took our empty garage space, added a wall, new furniture, completely renovated the bathroom, added a kitchenette, and then found a professional Navajo artist (Daniel Josley) to paint a fantastic mural in the room. We now call this the Artist’s Studio and it looks great! It’s perfect for two people, also with a fold-out couch, for a maximum of three persons.

    This includes a queen-size memory foam bed, as well as a shower with overhead (waterfall style head), a table and chairs, new nightstands, lots of variable lighting for the room, and a new A/C unit. The kitchenette includes a coffee pot, tea kettle, microwave, mini-fridge, silverware and dishes.

    The large mural depicts a scene of Lone Rock beach, with anthropomorphic lizards relaxing on the sand. Josley is famous for putting these horned-head lizards in human settings, such as a campfire, backpacking, or relaxing in a home, performing human actions. We are thrilled to have his work represented here.

    This room was completed in early 2022, and is now open on the AIRBNB calendar at http://www.airbnb.com/p/LVR

  • Here’s Looking at You, 2022

    Here’s Looking at You, 2022

    Hey everyone, as we all recover from the pains and frustrations of the last two years, let’s invite each other to take a deep breath, and be still. Know that your journey here happened for a reason. You are meant to have a great vacation. We are honored that you considered us, and hope that our quality reputation continues.

    We have seen water levels drop around our illustrious Lake Powell, but there is a lot of lake remaining, and lots of fun to be had. You can still get boat rentals, jet ski and kayak rentals, as well as go for a swim at Lone Rock Beach or the “Chains” swimming area by the dam. The lower level allows for more fun with ATV rentals (also called “quads” or “razors”). You should try Epic Adventure Rides for an all-day ATV rental, if you don’t have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, or a Jeep.

    You will need a National Park pass (also called the “America The Beautiful” pass) for $80 annually, or a $30 weekly pass, to enter Lone Rock or the Wahweap Marinas. If you got the $30 pass, you have seven days to upgrade it for the yearly pass, which is a good value in my opinion!

    We have a new gazebo in the backyard of our property, and retaining wall, with views of the Grand Escalante mountain. Meet some other guests, and have an evening drink or your breakfast out back. The gazebo will light up at night, until about midnight. Our fruit trees will be blooming during summer, so pick an apple while you visit, if you feel so inclined (limit one per guest).

    I’m currently managing the property with occasional help from family. I have added exterior cameras for some extra security, however, we do have a very safe neighborhood. If I’m not available at the manager’s door, please text or call me. I might be out exploring canyons to add new footage to my YouTube channel.

    Thanks for visiting and supporting local business. I hope you love this area, and can stay at least for few nights.

  • Buckskin Gulch

    Buckskin Gulch

    What say you? In southern Utah or northern AZ and not sure what to do? You must not be looking deep enough — deep into the earth, that is.  Many tourists come into the area with a linear focus on Antelope Canyon, and they ignore other great places, such as Buckskin Gulch.

    Antelope is privately owned by a Navajo family, within the Navajo Nation, and beautiful, nonetheless.  As seen on Instagram, it is stunning. How could you not be in awe of such an incredible display of nature? What if I told you there’s another area close to Antelope Canyon that’s just as magnificent; even better, it’s Antelope Canyon on steroids? And… And… It’s much cheaper than Antelope.

    Don’t get me wrong:  Antelope is stunning and well worth the tour if you can afford it or make it with or without a reservation. Wouldn’t you rather or in addition to explore the longest slot canyon in the US, possibly the world? I have and will go back many more times to get my fix exploring this extremely amazing natural environment.

    Do you want the juice? Are you ready for the juice? LOL Here’s the juice… BUCKSKIN GULCH is the longest slot canyon in the United States and possibly the world. It’s around 40 miles west of Antelope Canyon. Yes, lovely adventure seekers!  Antelope Canyon is not the only slot canyon in the southwest. I bet you didn’t know there are well over 1,000 slot canyons below interstate 70 in Utah and quite a few more in northern Arizona. Unfortunately, most of the slot canyons require canyoneering skills, while some are not really worth the time and effort to explore.  And many are privately owned by the Navajo Nation.

    IN ADDITION TO…

    Buckskin Gulch is a slot canyon I have wanted to explore since 2017.  Here at Liberty Vacation Rentals, we host guests from around the world quite frequently. Once, we hosted twin sisters. They were super excited to hike this slot canyon and couldn’t wait to begin their journey. I was excited for them, until I read the details regarding this adventure. It so happens these ladies were going to hike the longest slot canyon in the US and most likely the longest one in the world. It’s located just under 30 miles from our AirBnB in southern Utah; 18 miles on the highway and then a few more, down road of gravel and dirt. The name BUCKSKIN GULCH comes from the color of deer hide. It’s also called Kaibab Canyon which makes more sense to me. Kaibab means “the mountain lying down.”  It’s a terrific alternative to Antelope Canyon or Waterhole Canyon, or Secret Canyon, or Cardiac Canyon, or Rattlesnake Canyon.  (Did you know there were so many?)  Sometimes, these other canyons have sold out of space, and have long waiting lines.  Think of Buckskin Gulch as another great hike, in addition to these slot canyon major attractions. It is a definite photo op for tourists and explorers, when they come to visit the area.

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    GETTING THERE…

    From Highway 89, it’s less than ten miles down a road built for ranchers back in the day. Sometimes flash floods and weather will wash away portions of the road but the highway officials will fill it in with more gravel eventually. Any car will make the trek on a normal day if you take it slow and steady. Although during the winter months of snow or rain, only a four-wheel drive will make it down House Rock Valley Road to the parking area at the end.  Here, you can access The Wave (permit required), Wire Pass, and Buckskin Gulch. There are actually a few different parking areas. We found the one shared with The Wave is the best location to start the hike into Buckskin Gulch.

    At the parking area, grab a day use permit from the kiosk, deposit money, and fill in the form as instructed. Hike across the gravel road to start the trailhead for WirePass. Continue onto the Wire Pass trail. You will be heading back north close to the road. Protect yourself in the first mile because of the extreme sun exposure. It will curve to the right and head east. In the middle of WirePass trail you will come to a rock jammed in the narrow slot canyon. Just over the rock is a lower level. The rock adds at least two feet onto the level and you must pass over this rock to go further into the canyon. The second level is around six feet down. So it’s around eight feet you must climb down and back up when leaving. There is an alternative to WirePass to get to BUCKSKIN GULCH, but it’s worth the effort to move forward in this direction. This “rock jam” is the only obstacle for this pass. Be cautious using the rope provided around the rock. It’s not stable and you could fall off. Be careful.

    On with the trail. The next part of the hike will enter a confluence for WirePass and Buckskin Gulch. This is where you will hike north or south. We headed north and it was pretty spectacular. The gulch is much wider and the canyon walls vary in height. The extent of the canyon continues east for 40 some odd miles to Marble Canyon and Lee’s Ferry. There are several trails through the passes although I would suggest a day hike in and out of the canyon. Stay hydrated and aware of the weather, especially any flash flood warnings, during and after rainfall.  Take provisions. The only bathrooms are located at the trailhead. Don’t get caught up in sneaking into “The Wave”. It’s a hefty fine and possible jail time. Not worth the time and effort to see a landmark. Especially if you know where to look, you can see similar “waves” within other places all around the area.

    So… that’s the juice. Are you pumped to see Buckskin Gulch? I am definitely pumped to go back and to tell others. Antelope is amazing but you will be pleasantly surprised with this canyon. It’s cheaper and so much more to see. I would advise using AllTrails app to help you navigate this hike and so many others in the area. If you are staying with us in our AirBnB, we have so many places we can fill you in to explore more on your adventure and journey into nature and the WildWest.

     

    Antelope Canyon on Steroids – Side effects:
    Positive:  A spectacular performance of nature.
    Negative:  Watch for flash floods and heat exhaustion.

     

  • Skylight Arch

    Skylight Arch

    The Skylight Arch is a lesser known, horizontal arch. This rocky phenomenon is visible from Highway 89 in Southern Utah, at the Arizona/Utah border.

    The hiking trail is free to the public, if you can find it. If you have cell-phone reception, you can use Google Maps to drive from Highway 89 to the backroads of Southern Utah, nearby Lone Rock Beach.

    You’ll be driving off road, therefore an SUV, truck, or jeep is recommended. We took my Prius on a dry and sunlit day, however, the last mile of road is very rocky and isn’t good for low-riding vehicles. So we parked, and hiked one extra mile to the location (a total of 2 miles hiking each way).

    The backroads have a lot of intersections, and rocky terrain at the end of the road. The good news is that you can get (Verizon) cell phone reception on this hike! So you can map it on your phone and it will guide you to the small parking area behind the mountain. On the way, you will find roadsigns for Vermillion Cliffs, at which you should go to the left, then veer slight right to go around the back of the mountain. You will be driving under several power lines, for about a mile.

    If you get to the end of the road, you’ll have just a 1 mile hike, each way. The arch is almost difficult to notice from above ground, until you approach it, so be careful not to fall in. It’s a long way down.

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    There are spectacular views of Lake Powell, Lone Rock, Navajo Mountain, as well as other buttes and mountains in the distance. Spoiler alert! We put a few photos on this blog post!

    You should bring water, good shoes/boots, a hiking buddy, and maybe a snack and a backpack. Use the restroom before coming, or bring a roll of TP to be safe. Dogs are allowed.

  • The Rim View Trail

    The Rim View Trail

    If you’re looking for some splendid panoramic views, and a moderately easy trail to hike for a few hours, the Page Rim View Trail is for you. This hike meanders around the city of Page AZ, as a 13 mile trail you can walk, run, or bike. Rent a bicycle from the Rim Trail Bike shop on North Navajo Drive, or simply enjoy a nice trek on foot.

    You’ll see great views of Lake Powell, the Glen Canyon Dam, the beginning of the Grand Canyon, Navajo Mountain, Tower Butte, and more. This trail crosses over many streets within the city of Page, so if you need to take a break or quit early to get food or a restroom, that’s not a problem.

    We hiked this on New Year’s Day, and although it was cold, it was very beautiful. We saw a few joggers fulfilling their resolution to start the year with some exercise. The trail is mostly very safe, with a few spots that require your attention. There is a small risk of falling 10 to 15 feet if you’re not watching out.

    Recommended to have sneakers, hiking boots, and water. Dress appropriately for the season. A walking stick is optional. Hiking late in the day? Take a flashlight.

    The trail will loop around the city of Page, including residential areas.

    The Rim View trail is moderately easy, with a few steep drop offs.

    hike the Rim View trail with a friend
    Take a friend and explore the Rim View trail, around Page!

    Lake Powell and Antelope Island

    a view of Tower Butte (on left), with Navajo Mountain (behind)

  • Rip Rap in Catstair Canyon

    Rip Rap in Catstair Canyon

    Rip Rap is located inside Catstair Canyon, not far from the Paria River. We had no idea this amazing relic existed until just recently. It’s a little known ruin of several classic cars, which were used decades ago to fill in a gap of the highway 89. You can find this in Catstair Canyon, just south of House Rock Valley Road. The hike is medium difficulty, but only about a half mile. Be careful around the abandoned vehicles, they may have sharp edges. It’s truly a sight to behold. On the other side of this canyon, you can find some petroglyphs. You won’t need an off-road vehicle to get here, but it will require some hiking in the canyon. There is no charge, or restrictions, to visit this site. There is no restroom or running water. (And please don’t litter.)

    YOUTUBE VIDEO LINK – CLICK HERE

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