These vibrant formations come alive particularly during sunrise and sunset, when soft light enhances their natural hues.

Raplee Ridge — located in San Juan County, Utah — is an extraordinary geological formation that captivates visitors with its colorful banded slopes and dramatic topography. Often referred to as the “Navajo Blanket” for its distinctive striped appearance, the ridge’s western face features tilted, multi-colored rock layers that resemble woven patterns.

Geology

Raplee Ridge is a textbook example of a monocline—a landform created when otherwise horizontal layers of rock are sharply folded. The ridge was formed during the Laramide Orogeny, a major mountain-building period that shaped much of the American West over 50 million years ago. One side of the monocline features steep cliffs, while the other transitions more gently into valleys and plateaus.

Photography & Viewing Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset, when the slanted light adds depth and contrast to the rock patterns

• Drone Photography: Highly recommended to capture the full scale and symmetry of the formation

• Avoid Midday: Harsh overhead light tends to flatten colors and reduce texture

Nearby Campsites

For those wanting to explore the area and experience Raplee Ridge at sunrise or sunset, there are a few nearby campsites to consider:

1. Valley of the Gods (BLM)

   • Location: 15 miles south of Mexican Hat, UT

   • Type: Dispersed camping

   • Amenities: None (no water, no restrooms)

   • Features: Scenic views, quiet environment, free camping with a 14-day limit

   • Access: Easy access via dirt roads; 4WD recommended after rain

   • Cost: Free

2. Goosenecks State Park

   • Location: 9 miles south of Mexican Hat, UT

   • Type: Developed campground

   • Amenities: Picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, no showers

   • Features: Overlooks the Goosenecks of the San Juan River with excellent stargazing opportunities

   • Cost: $15 per night for campsites

3. Cedar Mesa (BLM)

   • Location: 10 miles east of Bluff, UT

   • Type: Dispersed camping

   • Amenities: None (carry in water)

   • Features: Close to hiking trails, ancient ruins, and the Grand Gulch

   • Cost: Free

4. Muley Point (BLM)

   • Location: 13 miles north of Mexican Hat

   • Type: Dispersed camping

   • Amenities: None (primitive camping)

   • Features: Scenic overlook of the Goosenecks of the San Juan River

   • Access: Gravel roads, 4WD recommended in wet conditions

   • Cost: Free

Additional Info

• Location: Near Mexican Hat, Utah, just off U.S. Route 163

• Access: Viewable from roadside pullouts; high-clearance vehicles helpful for exploring surrounding BLM lands

• Leave No Trace: Please respect the fragile landscape by staying on established pullouts or roads and packing out all trash