The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management was founded in 1946 when Congress decided to merge the General Land Office, founded in 1812, with the U.S. Grazing Service, founded in 1934. The agency manages over 245 million acres of public land in the United States. White Pocket Trailhead is one of the main entrance points to the White Pocket. It is situated within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in the rugged Paria Plateau and is characterized by deep sand and shrubs. The trailhead is located close to Zion National Park and Sand Hollow State Park, making it an ideal destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. White Pocket Trailhead is accessible all year round from House Rock Valley Road. However, accessing the trailhead requires careful planning and preparation because of its remote location and challenging terrain. No permit is required to visit the trailhead.
Virgin River Trail is a point-to-point trail that is great for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail has an elevation gain of about 239 feet. Length: 11 miles Intensity: Easy
Sullivan Canyon Trail is an out-and-back trail that runs through Paiute Wilderness. A walk along the trail takes you to the magnificent Virgin River Recreation Area, where you can enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing. However, biking is prohibited on this trail. Length: 15 miles Intensity: Easy
Owen's Loop is a pet-friendly trail that is located about 3.5 miles from White Pocket Trailhead. It is excellent for bicycling and hiking and offers visitors a captivating journey through stunning vistas and breathtaking natural scenery. Length: 2.7 miles Intensity: Moderate
One of the most popular fishing destinations near White Pocket Trailhead is the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. It is located 10 miles from the trailhead and features multiple fishing areas, including Dixie National Forest. The forest has over 90 fishable lakes, including Deer Creek Lake, where anglers can catch rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth basses, and walleyes. Other lakes in the forest that are ideal for fishing include Navajo Lake, Hendrickson Lake, Flat Lake, and Chriss Lake.
Located about 26 miles from White Pocket Trailhead, Welcome Spring is an ideal rock climbing destination for both experienced and amateur climbers. The area has an elevation gain of about 5,000 feet. It offers numerous climbing spots, including Cathedral Rock, a north-facing limestone cliff. Other classic climbing spots in Welcome Spring include the Wailing and Sumo Walls.
Situated about 34 miles from White Pocket Trailhead, Zion National Park is home to more than 291 bird species, including hummingbirds, ravens, falcons, and quails. It also features over 78 mammal species, including bighorn sheep, rock squirrels, foxes, and bats, and over 37 reptile and amphibian species, including rattlesnakes and lizards. Visitors can also visit Sand Hollow State Park, which is located approximately 13.5 miles from White Pocket Trailhead. Some wild animals you are likely to spot in the area include bobcats, coyotes, desert snakes, foxes, and rabbits.
Visitors are allowed to have a picnic at any spot at White Pocket Trailhead. Since there are no developed amenities like fire rings and picnic tables around the trailhead, visitors can find a cozy spot, spread out their picnic blankets, and enjoy a meal amidst the tranquility of the surrounding landscape.
There aren't any established BLM RV camping spots at White Pocket Trailhead. However, you can try out one of the many Bureau of Land Management campgrounds near the trailhead, such as the Red Cliffs Campground, which is located 19 miles from White Pocket Trailhead. This BLM RV camping spot has over 11 campsites equipped with potable water, picnic tables, and shaded shelters. The campground charges $15 per night and $5 for day use. Alternatively, visitors can visit the nearby Quail Creek RV Park. This RV park provides free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and bathrooms with hot water. You can always find BLM campgrounds by searching "BLM camping near me."
Sand Cove Primitive Camping Area is a popular Bureau of Land Management free camping spot located 21 miles from White Pocket Trailhead. There are about 12 campsites in the area, and only a maximum of 20 people are allowed to camp together at one campsite. Additionally, visitors are only allowed to stay in the area for a maximum of seven days.
Planning a trip to White Pocket Trailhead during the wet season is not recommended since the roads in the area can be dangerous to maneuver when it rains. Scheduling your trip in the summer also has some disadvantages since the area is usually extremely hot and has very few shaded areas. Winter is an excellent time to visit White Pocket Trailhead since the area is usually less crowded. Before leaving for your trip to this site, remember to pack essential gear and supplies, including sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing, adequate food, sunscreen, hats, sufficient water, and navigation tools like maps and a compass. You can also design a detailed itinerary to optimize your time and make the most of your visit. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Before heading to White Pocket Trailhead, you should note that the BLM requires visitors to adhere to the "Leave No Trace" principles so as to minimize environmental impact. Human waste should be disposed of in catholes, which should be dug about six to eight inches deep. Also, all guests are required to set up camp at least 200 feet from water sources. Visitors are also advised to use the designated fire rings so as to limit fire impact.
The trailhead can be accessed from House Rock Valley Road (BLM 1065). To reach House Rock Valley Road from Kanab, UT, drive east on Highway 89 for 38 miles to arrive at Page, AZ. Afterward, travel west on Highway 89 and drive for 36 miles to reach the south end of House Rock Valley Road. Travel 9.3 miles north of Highway 89A and then turn onto BLM 1017. Drive east for 6.2 miles until you come across BLM 1087. Continue driving northeast on BLM 1087 until it splits into BLM 1086. Proceed on BLM 1086 and stay on the left side until you arrive at White Pocket Trailhead. BLM Arizona Strip District Office Address: 345 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790 Ready to visit White Pocket Trailhead? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
