PAGE – At about 7:30 a.m. last Thursday, an explosion rattled the framed portraits hanging on the walls inside the homes of Page.

Instantly, social media blew up about the “boom.”

Many thought it was another demolition event at the Navajo Generating Station.

Ashley Rankin of Big Water, Utah, who really has her thumb on the pulse of Big Water, posted on Facebook, “Big Water Mayor David Schmucker says that it was dynamite they are using to open up the rock, so they can put in the water and sewer lines for the new Under Canvas [operation].”

Schmucker confirmed the explosion, “That was at Under Canvas. That one today was the last one. It was a hard spot, so they had to do an extra big charge.”

Under Canvas is a business offering “glamping” or glamorous-camping opportunities throughout the most stunning attractions around the United States. Currently, Under Canvas operates in: Grand Canyon, Moab, Yellowstone, Glacier, Zion, Great Smoky Mountains, Mount Rushmore, and soon Grand Staircase-Escalante.

Under Canvas will be opening 50 tent sites on 220 acres in Big Water starting in April.

According to Under Canvas’ website, “Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase is perched on a canyon-rim plateau with views extending for miles of the expansive lake and across to Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. A short 10-minute drive to Lone Rock Beach to enjoy water sports and a swim, this breathtaking location comprises 50 tents upon 220 acres of supreme southwestern desert landscape and provides easy access to enjoy some of the top attractions in Utah and Arizona including Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon among others.

“Located just 14 miles from the main Lake Powell marina and on the border of Grand Staircase Escalante, discover the splendor of the American southwest – and the adventure that goes along with it – and then kick-back and relax in your plush glamping tent with sweeping views.”

And by glamping, they mean it. From the outside, imagine something right out of Lawrence of Arabia: a large canvas structure with tent-style openings to maximize airflow and views, private decks, and lounge chairs.

On the inside, imagine the furnishings one might find in a luxury resort: king and queen size beds with high-end linens, private bathrooms, flushing toilets, showers, wood-burning stoves with complimentary firewood.

Under Canvas will offer on-site dining as well as complimentary camp activities. Guest experience coordinators will be available to facilitate tours and activities around the Grand Circle. They are pet-friendly, as well.

Price per night ranges from $299 to $439 excluding taxes and fees.

Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase is located at 555 South Jacob Tank Road, Big Water, Utah. With a planned opening date of April 1, reservations can be made at: reservations@undercanvas.com.