Blue Bell Knoll

[Oday Forster]

Youdon't hike Bluebell Knoll for the sheer challenge and exhilaration of summiting a lofty peak. As its name implies, it is a knoll, not a peak and is barely higher than the surrounding landscape. Bluebell Knoll is one of the easiest of the county high points in Utah. The area around Bluebell Knoll, the Aquarius Plateau, however, is incredibly scenic. It is also the highpoint for Wayne County, which is likely the reason most people visit.

Rising 6000' above the surrounding desert, the Aquarius Plateau is a stunningly high (11,000') flat plateau dotted with dozens of picturesque small ponds and lakes. It is the highest timbered plateau in North America. Rumor has it that when named, Boulder Mountain (aka the Aquarius Plateau) and Thousand Lake Mountain just to the north, had their names mistakenly switched when transcribed at the USGS office. It is easy to see why this area would be called Thousand Lake. The views of the surrounding (comparatively) lowlands and the plateau with its many small lakes are what make this trip. Many of the lakes are known for fishing, so bring a pole, this is a great area to camp, fish, and enjoy a few relaxing days. There is a campground en route to Bluebell Knoll; however I would highly recommend just primitive camping on top of the plateau near any of the small lakes that strikes your fancy. Minimum impact camping techniques are required, and limit travel to existing routes.

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