Cottonwoods through an arch in Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon Recreation Area, Utah, USA

© Stephen Matera/TANDEM Stills + Motio

Golden glimpses. Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon Recreation Area, Utah, USA

Framed by a natural arch in Coyote Gulch, Utah, the vibrant golden cottonwood trees stand out against the colourful rock formations of the Escalante canyon country. Coyote Gulch is a well-known backpacking destination offering towering vertical canyon walls, narrow slot canyons, domes, arches and natural bridges to visitors. The upper reaches of the gulch lie within the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, while today's image showcases its lower sections in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (GCNRA). Established in 1972 and managed by the United States National Park Service, GCNRA is a conservation area that balances recreation and preservation. Unlike national parks that focus primarily on natural preservation, GCNRA offers a variety of facilities, including four public campgrounds, two small airports and several houseboat rental services, making it a popular destination for visitors.