The space
This is our dream home—a rental for now, but also the place where we hope to retire. We built here for obvious reasons: Dry Valley is acre after acre of absolutely nothing but Mother Nature’s best work. We had a lofty objective with a humble approach: build a house wherein guests can experience thoughtful comfort and be fully enveloped by the surrounding natural environment. The house is situated to take full advantage of the stunning views of the sandstone butte to the north, but also to exist as unobtrusively as possible on the land.
Everything inside is new and carefully chosen, as we want to offer a laid-back experience that’s also well-equipped for all your needs. Career chefs ourselves, we placed priority on a kitchen that was conducive to both a good conversation and an incredible meal. Open and well-thought-out, you’ll find it fully stocked with every imaginable appliance, gadget, and staple ingredient (spices, oils, condiments, etc). With the nearest restaurant 15 miles away, cooking here is essential.
The remote location and solitude are the unconditional highlights here, so our home was designed to take full advantage of spectacular desert views and natural lighting through massive windows, towering sliders, and a pair of large skylights that bathe the space in moving sunlight throughout the day. The communal living area is the perfect spot to take in the ever-changing view, relax by the fire, enjoy the collection of vintage vinyl or 8-track tapes, or sit at the table or island for a bit of work on the speedy, reliable WiFi.
A Moroccan plaster bathroom in the hallway accompanies two bedrooms, each outfitted with a queen bed, large windows that let in the gorgeous views, and the coziest vibes. The house comfortably sleeps up to six. While each of the two bedrooms has a queen bed and ample closet space, there is also a large queen pullout couch that can comfortably sleep two adults or kids.
There are three outdoor patios, each oriented to accommodate both sun and shade, no matter the time of day. The large patio just outside the front door is a charming pad for lounging with a glass of wine around the fire pit or enjoying an al fresco meal while the sun sets.
*Interested in a meal service, private chef services, or a fridge fully stocked with specialty goods upon arrival? We happily offer these options.
ARRIVAL: Given the remote nature of our location, we recommend that all guests make it a priority to arrive during daylight hours. Please screenshot all directions to the property prior to reaching rural areas , as you will likely lose cell service prior to arrival. To reach our home you will enter through Kodachrome State Park. Included in your stay is a park pass to Kodachrome State Park for the duration of your visit!
HOST: The property manager will greet you upon arrival, assist with getting you checked in, and meet you for check out. Our host lives in a separate studio above the garage next door to the main house; they are available via text for any questions or assistance, but will otherwise keep to themselves.
DIRT ROADS: The last mile to our home is a dirt road. It's in great condition, but can be subject to inclement weather. Passenger cars have no problem making the drive, but we do recommend watching conditions and driving high clearance and AWD vehicles if possible. Kindly note that travel entails some personal risk, and we cannot assume responsibility or liability for any potential issues that arise due to road conditions.
DESERT LIFE: There is little development in this remote natural area, so you may encounter some local wildlife! Rabbits, foxes, coyotes, snakes, and spiders all call this area “home,” so please try to respect their space. It’s part of what makes this all so special.
SOLAR ENERGY: Energy is a finite resource at Dry Valley Ranch. Staying off-grid can be magical*, but there are nuances involved that require your attention. Please be mindful of all electricity usage: if possible, please use the most power-hungry appliances (i.e. hair dryers) during the day when the sun is shining and powering the home directly.
*Nature-friendly note: Preserving dark skies and minimizing artificial light helps to uphold the natural rhythms of wildlife and ensures bright stars for the best gazing.
Guest access
Guests are invited to explore and enjoy the entire home and surrounding property, with the exception of the garage and studio above, as this is where our host lives with their dog.
Other things to note
DVR is incredibly remote and 100% off-grid. It’s the ideal base camp for adventure and the perfect getaway for peace and solitude. The property is just 5 minutes from Kodachrome State Park, 25 minutes from Bryce Canyon, 45 minutes from Escalante, and 2 hours from Zion. Completely isolated, yet well within close reach of top-tier hikes, stunning vistas, and some of the best slot canyons Utah has to offer.