Spanish Valley (Utah) facts for kids
Spanish Valley is a wide, flat area of land, also called a "flat," located in Grand and San Juan counties in Utah, United States. It sits just south of the town of Moab.
What is Spanish Valley?
Spanish Valley is a special kind of flat landform. It's like a big, open field surrounded by hills or mountains. This valley is an important part of the landscape in southeastern Utah.
Where is Spanish Valley Located?
The valley is quite high up, sitting at about 4,331 feet (1,320 m) above sea level. It is located to the south and a little to the southeast of another area called the Moab Valley. A stream named Pack Creek flows through Spanish Valley. It travels north and northwest, eventually reaching the Moab Valley. From there, Pack Creek joins the mighty Colorado River. When two rivers or streams meet, it's called a confluence.
A Look Back in Time: The Old Spanish Trail
Spanish Valley has a rich history! Long ago, a famous path called the Old Spanish Trail passed right through this valley. This trail was a very important trade route in the 1800s. It connected Santa Fe, New Mexico, with Los Angeles, California.
Travelers and traders used the Old Spanish Trail to move goods like textiles, blankets, and horses. It was a long and difficult journey across deserts and mountains. The trail went through Spanish Valley on its way to a crossing point on the Colorado River, which is near where Moab is today. This shows how important Spanish Valley was as a stopping point or pathway for early travelers in the American West.
