A visit to Hole N’ The Rock is more than just a tourist attraction. Any Utah itinerary must include its unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. Make lifelong memories of exploring this sandstone marvel, exploring the cave house, admiring the sculptures, and taking photos. The different people show their love in different ways, just like some dads build their kid’s tree houses, but in the treeless desert of southeastern Utah, “Albert Christensen’s” only likely alternative was a cave.
A badass dad that he was, Albert Christensen blasted the rocks off a sandstone cliff face near U.S. Highway 191, so that his sons could sound asleep at night. Therefore he continued drilling and getting bigger the cave for twelve years until it was big enough for both him and his wife to move in 1952.
Thus, the 5,000 square-foot subterranean house is equipped with ample 14 rooms arranged around giant pillars, a beautiful fireplace with a 65-foot tall chimney, and a lovely deep bathtub built into the rock. Though, Albert Christensen was building a hundred-foot-tall staircase when he died.
Moreover, the stairs would have cut up to the top of the rock, where his wife would have arranged a rock garden. Therefore, after her husband’s death, Gladys continued to increase the property, opening a gift shop and giving tours of her home until she passed away in 1974.
These days, the Christensen family house welcomes travelers along U.S. Highway 191 with vast painted white letters on the cliff face that scream “Hole N’ The Rock”. Furthermore, the sculpture of Franklin D. Roosevelt on the face of the rock above his home was also made by Albert. Thus, most of the original furnishings, Alberta’s paintings, and Gladys’s doll collection, along with Albert’s taxidermy specimens two stuffed horses, donkeys, and are left untouched as a memorial.
Likewise also displayed several of the tools used to make this home. Albert and Gladys’ graves are placed in an alcove a short walk from the entrance. In 2000 “Hole N’ The Rock” was purchased by Erik and Wyndee Hansen from Gladys’ son, Hub Davis.
They have added a trading post, an outdoor petting zoo, a giant cactus made of bowling balls, and a two-story outhouse. Thus, when you travel on U.S. Highway 191, this is a must-visit place. You’ll definitely like Albert and Glady’s home. With a fascinating history, distinctive architecture, and a variety of attractions, this iconic roadside stop has captured the hearts of visitors for decades.
Hole N’ The Rock holds many secrets, so let’s explore them together. The Sculpture Garden is adjacent to the cave house. There are many sandstone sculptures adorning the garden, showing Albert Christensen’s passion for sculpting. These sculptures are a marvel of intricate craftsmanship and artistic talent. Whether you want to pan for gemstones or browse the expansive rock shop, you can find what you’re looking for. In the petting zoo, kids can feed and interact with exotic animals.
The sight of a massive sandstone rock with a peculiar hole carved into it might catch your attention as you travel through Utah’s scenic landscapes. Ingenuity and determination combined to create Hole N’ The Rock. This sandstone home from the 1940s has grown into a beloved tourist destination that attracts thousands of people each year. There are a variety of souvenirs to choose from, such as local artwork and Native American pottery and jewelry. Shop local artisans’ work at Hole N’ The Rock and take a piece home with you.
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