So my wife and I, visiting from California, got sandblasted out of the creek one night by howling winds.

Although the guidebook makes only passing mention of Monticello, we decided to make the short drive to try and find refuge, a meal, and a shower for an evening.

We were pleasantly surprised to find a plethora of climber-priced hotel rooms, super friendly people who appreciated every dime we spent, an unpretentious family restaurant that served gourmet food of the quality you'd find in a large metro area, and none of the circus atmosphere of Moab - All within a very short drive from the creek.

Speaking with Scott and Alexa, owners of the restaurant (shameless plug: Lamplight Restaurant, 435-587-2170), they were very familiar with the climbing scene at the creek. In fact, Alexa's family owns a ranching outfit bordering the Dugout Ranch...and they go back a long ways with all the local ranchers and players. Consumate business people, the Laws are enthusiastic supporters of all recreational visitors, and mentioned an interest in becoming more involved with the climbing community in particular.

The bottom line: Monticello is a terrific, low-key, very close base camp for the creek, populated with true locals who know all the players that impact climber's use of the creek, and deeply appreciate visitors of all stripes. Given access issues and environmental concerns, respectful and cool climbers would be well advised to visit this quaint little town and spend a little dough...it certainly can't hurt.

...and, don't forget to hit up the Lamplight Restaurant...the apple pie will put you right to sleep!

S. Saunders

I'll have to try that one. Thx for the recommendation. I've always hung out at the Peace Tree Cafe. Nice food, casual atmoshere outdoor patio in the shade of a big cottonwood and free wireless. Don't think they're open for dinner but they do have real coffee.

As an added bonus take the road that goes over the Abajos to get to Monticello. I don't know if it's shorter but it's amazingly beautiful. To get on that road, turn south on the paved road just a mile or so after you climb up the switchbacks east of Newspaper Rock. I think it's the only paved road the turns off of the main road. From the turn it's about 17 miles to Monticello.

Mal

Very nice to see a positive post for once. Sound's like a nice place. Then of course all post's aren't negative.

hi Shane,

I hope Meg liked the Creek