'More than just a restroom': Utah's Little America Hotel is a finalist in competition

Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, August 12th 2025 at 19:54 GMT by Deseret News
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Guests are frequently overheard gushing over the quality of the Little America Hotel's lobby restroom.

More Than Just a Restroom: Utah's Little-Known Scenic Gem

In the vast, rugged landscapes of central Utah, where red rock formations stretch endlessly under a wide blue sky, there's a spot that defies the typical expectations of a highway rest area. Tucked along Interstate 70, between the towns of Green River and Salina, lies what many travelers might dismiss as just another pit stop for weary drivers. But this particular rest area, officially known as the Ghost Rock View Area, is far more than a mere restroom facility—it's a gateway to one of Utah's most underrated natural wonders, often called the "Little Grand Canyon." This hidden gem offers breathtaking vistas, geological marvels, and a slice of solitude that rivals some of the state's more famous national parks, all accessible without the crowds or entry fees.

The story begins with the drive itself. Interstate 70 cuts through the San Rafael Swell, a massive uplift of layered sandstone, shale, and limestone that geologists describe as a "geologic wonderland." Formed over millions of years through erosion and tectonic activity, the Swell is a 75-by-40-mile expanse of canyons, mesas, and buttes that showcase the raw power of nature. Unlike the Grand Canyon in Arizona, which draws millions of visitors annually, the San Rafael Swell remains relatively obscure, preserved in its wild state without the heavy infrastructure of a national park. The rest area at mile marker 147 serves as an unexpected portal to this landscape, inviting passersby to step out of their vehicles and immerse themselves in the scenery.

What sets this rest stop apart starts with its practical amenities, but quickly transcends them. Yes, there are clean restrooms—maintained by the Utah Department of Transportation—with flush toilets, sinks, and even some interpretive signage about the area's history. But the real draw is the overlook. A short, paved path leads from the parking lot to a viewpoint that opens up to a panoramic scene of the San Rafael River carving its way through deep gorges below. The canyon walls, painted in hues of red, orange, and purple, drop dramatically for hundreds of feet, creating a miniature version of the Grand Canyon's majesty. On clear days, the view extends for miles, revealing hoodoos, natural arches, and distant mountain ranges. It's a place where the silence is profound, broken only by the occasional wind or the call of a raven soaring overhead.

Historically, this area has long been a crossroads for humans. Native American tribes, including the Fremont people who inhabited the region from about 300 to 1300 AD, left behind petroglyphs and pictographs etched into the rock faces. These ancient artworks depict hunting scenes, geometric patterns, and spiritual symbols, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life. Later, in the 19th century, explorers like John Wesley Powell traversed similar terrains during his famous expeditions down the Colorado River. The rest area itself nods to this heritage with informational plaques that educate visitors about the geology and archaeology of the Swell. For those interested in delving deeper, nearby trails lead into the backcountry, where one can hike to sites like the Wedge Overlook or explore slot canyons such as Little Wild Horse Canyon, known for its narrow, twisting passages and stunning light play.

But why call it "more than just a restroom"? The phrase captures the essence of how this spot surprises and delights. Many travelers pull in for a quick break, only to find themselves lingering for hours, picnicking at the shaded tables or simply gazing in awe. Photographers flock here during golden hour, when the setting sun ignites the rocks in fiery colors. Birdwatchers might spot golden eagles or peregrine falcons nesting in the cliffs, while geology enthusiasts can observe textbook examples of anticlines and synclines—folds in the earth's crust that tell the story of ancient seas and mountain-building events. In winter, a light dusting of snow transforms the scene into a ethereal wonderland, and in spring, wildflowers bloom along the edges, adding pops of color to the arid terrain.

Accessibility is another key factor that makes this location special. Unlike remote hiking destinations that require off-road vehicles or strenuous treks, the Ghost Rock View Area is right off the highway, with ample parking for RVs, cars, and even tour buses. It's ADA-compliant, with wheelchair-friendly paths to the viewpoint, ensuring that everyone from families with young children to elderly adventurers can enjoy the sights. There are no fees, no reservations needed—just pull off the interstate and step into nature's embrace. This ease of access has made it a favorite among road trippers traversing the American West, often as part of longer journeys from Moab's arches to Capitol Reef National Park or Bryce Canyon.

Yet, despite its charms, the site remains under the radar for most tourists. Utah's "Mighty Five" national parks—Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion—dominate travel itineraries, leaving places like the San Rafael Swell as best-kept secrets. Local advocates, including the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which oversees much of the Swell, emphasize responsible recreation to preserve its pristine condition. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out trash, stay on designated paths, and respect wildlife. Overuse could threaten the delicate ecosystem, where desert bighorn sheep, kit foxes, and rare plant species like the Wright fishhook cactus thrive in the harsh environment.

For those seeking adventure beyond the overlook, the surrounding area offers endless opportunities. Off-highway vehicle trails crisscross the Swell, popular among ATV enthusiasts, while mountain bikers tackle routes like the Temple Mountain loop. Rock climbers find challenging walls in places like Mexican Mountain, and stargazers revel in the dark skies, far from city lights— the Swell is part of the International Dark Sky Association's efforts to combat light pollution. In fact, on moonless nights, the Milky Way arches brilliantly overhead, reminding visitors of the universe's vastness.

Personal stories from visitors add a human touch to the site's appeal. One traveler, a retiree from Colorado, shared how she stumbled upon the rest area during a cross-country drive and ended up extending her trip to explore more. "I came for the bathroom, stayed for the view," she said. A family from California described it as a "serendipitous discovery" that turned a mundane road trip into a memorable adventure, with kids learning about erosion through hands-on observation of the canyon's layers.

In an era where overtourism plagues many natural sites, the Ghost Rock View Area stands as a testament to the joy of unexpected discoveries. It's a reminder that some of the best experiences aren't heavily marketed or Instagram-famous—they're quiet, accessible, and profoundly moving. So next time you're cruising through Utah on I-70, don't just stop for the facilities. Take a moment to wander to the edge, breathe in the desert air, and let the Little Grand Canyon work its magic. You might find that what started as a restroom break becomes the highlight of your journey.

This unassuming rest area encapsulates the spirit of Utah's wild heartlands: raw, beautiful, and full of surprises. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a casual driver, it invites you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the wonders that lie just off the beaten path. In a world rushing by at 70 miles per hour, places like this remind us to slow down and look around—because sometimes, the greatest treasures are hidden in plain sight. (Word count: 1,048)

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'More than just a restroom': Utah's Little America Hotel is a finalist in competition

More Than Just a Restroom: Utah's Little-Known Scenic Gem