While exploring Balanced Rock Mesa in Moab, Utah, I found a rock that looks like an Ancient Alien Monument. Why is this rock here? How was it made?
I also found a rock that looks like a pig, a duck, lots of slots, and Elvis' Hammer. Wait, I thought Elvis had a guitar?
If Balanced Rock Mesa is so interesting to explore, why is this the only reference to it on the internet at the time of publication? Am I the only person that has discovered this area?
Balanced Rock Mesa is located high above Moab and my vacation rental:
https://www.moabadventurecondo.com/ From my patio, I have often looked up to the mesa and wanted to explore it, wondering what cool things I might find.
I was finally able to schedule some time to explore the mesa. I was totally amazed at what I found on the mesa and shocked that seemingly no one else had visited it.
From the moment the hike began, I was thrilled to be met with eye-level views of the Olympic Torch, also known as Elvis Hammer! As you soak in the expansive vistas from the mesa, you're whisked away into a surreal world of uniquely eroded rock formations unlike anything else in the Moab area. The further you venture to the end of the mesa, the more the rocks transform into fascinating, wind-sculpted shapes. One rock astonishingly resembled a pig rooting around, while another was the spitting image of a duck!
The uppermost rock layer exhibits significant resistance to erosion; however, directly beneath it lies a thin layer, several inches thick, that is gradually being eroded by the relentless winds sweeping across the top of Balanced Rock Mesa. The absence of this thin rock layer has resulted in the overlying rock becoming unusually shaped and deeply undercut, with numerous rocks breaking loose and leaning against each other.
What an incredible experience it was to have the entire mesa all to myself during my hike! I didn't see a single footprint, which means this stunning spot is rarely visited, even though it's right next to Moab's famous trail, The Whole Enchilada. There's no trail on the mesa, so you'll be adventuring cross country the whole time. Just remember to protect the fragile cryptobiotic crust by stepping only on the slick rock or sticking to the sandy washes. Enjoy the solitude and the beauty!
Every rock on the mesa has an interesting shape. I only explored a small portion of the rocks and found an alien, pig, and duck shaped rocks. Who knows what other rocks are waiting to be discovered?
This hike is a challenge beyond the average hiker's experience. I completed a six-mile trek, but my exploration and navigation through slots extended the journey to nearly six hours. By the end, I was thoroughly exhausted. Prepare yourself: the Balanced Rock Mesa will test you with its steep ascent, resilient desert plants, lack of a clear trail, fierce winds, dead ends, and unexpected obstacles at every turn.
However, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and hidden wonders.
The north side of the mesa overlooks Castle Valley, the western side looks over Mill Creek and the south side looks over the Valley of Gnomes and the La Sal Mountains.
There is no trail here, so you will have to explore on your own, however, should you accept the challenge, you will not be disappointed.
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