Salvation Knoll

Salvation Knoll is a historic site located a few miles off the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail on Cedar Mesa. This trail was blazed by Mormon pioneers during the winter of 1879-1880 as they came to settle along the San Juan River. Scouts exploring in advance of the wagon train through the terribly rugged terrain became lost and ran out of food as they sought to determine whether the route was even possible. On a snowy Christmas Day morning in 1879, they climbed what is now known as Salvation Knoll in search of landmarks. From its top they were able to see the Blue Mountains off to the northeast, which allowed them to orient themselves. Subsequently they were able to design a route for the wagon trail that followed them. Today, a hiking trail accesses the top of Salvation Knoll, where visitors can enjoy a 360 degree panorama of incredible views. Round trip to the top is one-half mile.