Place · 0.8 mi away
Overview
Airport Tower is a striking 700‑foot sandstone butte in the Island in the Sky district. It rises abruptly from the White Rim country, a photogenic spire amid mesas and deep canyons. This is wilderness scenery with a capital W—more solitude than crowds, more sky than shade.
What You'll See
From various angles along the White Rim Road, you can frame Airport Tower alongside neighboring formations like Monster Tower and Washer Woman, with big‑sky backdrops that sometimes include the La Sal Mountains. The tower glows at golden hour, when low light brings out textures and color in the stone. On clear nights, the low light pollution makes for excellent stargazing.
Climbing & History
This is a niche objective for experienced desert climbers. The first ascent came in 1994 via Wind Shear (5.11 A1, 5 pitches), later freed around 5.12a/b. In 1995, Sky Pilot (IV 5.9 A3) was added and was likely the second ascent/second route. If you’re here for climbing, expect serious route‑finding and the full desert tower toolkit.
Getting There & On‑Site Reality
There are no developed facilities at the formation itself—no water, no shade structures, no trash service. The closest basics are tied to nearby backcountry campsites in the “Airport” area along the White Rim Road, and even those are minimal. Access can feel slow and rough; rockfall, washouts, and general backcountry conditions are part of the experience. Come self‑sufficient.
Wildlife
No site‑specific notes are documented for the tower, but the surrounding desert typically supports lizards, birds of prey, and desert mammals. Keep your distance and enjoy the sightings if they come your way.
Best Time to Visit
- Seasons: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer heat and winter cold can be harsh.
- Daylight: Sunrise and sunset deliver the most dramatic light on the tower and neighboring spires.
- Crowds: This area is usually quiet compared to front‑country overlooks.
Tips
- Bring ample water, sun protection, and navigation (map/compass/GPS); signage is sparse.
- If you plan to camp at nearby Airport A/B/C sites, secure permits in advance and carry all water.
- Allow extra time for travel on the White Rim Road; conditions can change after storms.
- Photographers: scout a day spot for Washer Woman, Monster Tower, and the tower together for golden‑hour compositions.
Pros
- Dramatic 700‑ft sandstone spire with sweeping canyon views
- Quiet, remote setting that shines at sunrise and sunset
Cons
- No facilities; bring all water and supplies
- Rough, time‑consuming access along the White Rim Road
Tips
- Pack all water and food; there are no services at the tower.
- Use detailed maps/GPS—signage off the main road is minimal.
- Secure permits if camping at nearby Airport A/B/C sites.
- Plan for sunrise or sunset to photograph the tower and neighboring spires.
