I wasn't looking for Jacobs Chair. My goal was the canyon beneath it. Although adjacent to a nicely paved Highway 95 (north of Natural Bridges National Monument), this area is very remote. Cell phone service? Nope. Ensure that you have a full tank of gas, a lot of water, snacks, the right clothing, and some good sense.
You can't help but see Jacobs Chair because it's a monumental red stone beacon of a chair that sits atop a mountain range. I assumed it has some biblical reference -- doesn't so much in Utah? -- but it's named after Franklin Jacob Adams who, in 1940, lost his life trying to cross White Canyon on his horse during a flash flood.
Fortunately or unfortunately, there was no rain in the forecast during my 100-degree visit in White Canyon below the Chair. Hiking is a bit of slow motion even on a normal day because the open canyon is basically a sandy beach interspersed with larger rocks. Add in the intense sun and I took it very leisurely.
I stopped beneath cliff overhangs along the way to take advantage of the only shade available. I imagined myself creating my own cliff dwelling as I hung out and gazed into the canyon. I also tried to visualize Mr. Adams on his horse. This is not a slot canyon so I couldn't comprehend how much water it must have taken to create such a torrent to wash him and his horse away. read more