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Show .5tLE & DO April 1995 CATTLE. COiliVZY Page 2 San Rafael Swell holds plenty of secrets The San Rafael Swell is one of the most beautiful in Utah. Its places sandstone-line- d canyons contain petroglyphs and small grottos and alcoves provide a chance for solitude, yet some places can be found providing breathtaking views that go on for miles. Yet with all this, it is one of the best kept secrets in Utah. The Swell is located midway between the towns of Price, Green River, Hansvil-l- e and Salina. A few paved roads cut through the Swell but access to its heart is only via graveled roads or rough drive trails. This four-whe- el is a place where it pays to be adventurous and self sufficient. Besides containing spec- tacular scenery and many fun places to visit, the area also has a fascinating his- tory. Its history probably began with primitive hunting and gathering Indian tribes who harvested the natural grasses and plants, while hunting the sparce w'ild game found there. Some evidence still remains of those hearty people. Ancient storage graneries and a great deal of rock art can be found gracing the cliffs of the San Rafael Swell. The area next became a part ofthe Old Spanish Trail used as a route by the Spanish as they made their way from Santa Fe, New Mexico to Monterey, Calif. One branch of the route crossed just north of the Swell and eventually plunged along the present route of State Road 10 through Emery County. The trail then turned east and followed the present route of Interstate 70 down Salina Canyon. The Old Spanish Trail was, as it suggests, a trail. Supplies were carried by horses and mules. Sometimes expeditions making their way through Utah contained hundreds of mules and thousands of pounds of supplies. The next inhabitants of the Swell were outlaws using the confusing array of canyons to avoid the law. Such well known outlaws as Butch Cassidy, Elza Lay and the Sundance Kid penetrated the inner canyons of the Swell as they hid their stolen cattle and themselves from sheriffs posses seeking their where abouts. During the 1950s another tough breed of man visited and explored the Swell. Uranium miners seeking the precious ore which was fueling the United States bid to become the worlds first Uranium mine remains. nuclear nation that was located deep in the heart of the area. In fact, many of the roads now being used by recreationists were created by these rugged explorers. Rest. On i i Ef ol von See it from here! 24 Hour Service 547 Motel Rooms 8 Service Stations 10 Eating Establishments Utah Hall of Fame Museum Assured our commitment to you. This is Plus receive cable with HBO Indoor Pool and TV Jacuzzi Free Local Calls New Mini Suites Reservation 590 East Main Free 1 Price, Utah - Toll - 00-228-5732 801-637-56- 60 |
