The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Bobcat Trailhead is found in western Colorado, just north of Uncompahgre National Forest and west of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The trailhead leads into the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness and National Conservation Area (NCA) via the Bobcat and Bighorn trails. The area's signature feature is the black granite and red sandstone double canyon formed by the Gunnison River. This BLM site is a premier destination for hikers, rafters, climbers, and paddlers. The trailhead has an information kiosk, self-pay station, shade structure, and picnic table. You can explore almost untouched areas of the Colorado Plateau during a BLM RV camping trip.
The namesake Bobcat Trail is an out-and-back hike from the entrance to Improvise Rapid. The trail only permits hikers and their dogs. It features an 887-foot elevation change. The path is undeveloped, difficult to follow, and includes a steep descent over the final half-mile across a rock face.
Length: 1.1miles
Intensity: Difficult
Bighorn Loop runs concurrently with Bobcat Trail before breaking north, connecting to Duncan Trailhead. The route then returns south along Improvise Rapids through the lower rim of the canyon. The trail has an 878-foot elevation change.
Length: 3.75 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Beginning at Duncan Trailhead and heading north, this out-and-back trail culminates at the Duncan Cabin campsite on the banks of the Gunnison River. The trek features an 854-foot elevation change. This trail is one of the most used and easiest to follow; however, the final half-mile is extremely steep with loose scree.
Length: 1.3 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Boaters can float the Gunnison River via the Chukar Boat Launch in Gunnison Gorge, which is only accessible by a primitive road that requires four-wheel drive and a mile-long hike through the wilderness to the river. Once on the water, you're treated to dazzling views of the rock formations. Whitewater rafters can navigate 14 miles of Class III and IV rapids upstream. Fishermen can enjoy nationally designated Gold Medal Water & Wild Trout Water from 200 yards downstream of Crystal Dam to the North Fork of Gunnison River. A Colorado fishing license is required, so check local requirements before casting your line.
One of the country's top destinations for expert rock climbers is just 30 miles west of Bobcat Trailhead at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The gorge is the deepest and narrowest throughout the park, creating challenging climbs. At 2,250 feet, The Painted Wall is the tallest vertical wall in Colorado. At the North and South Chasm Walls, the canyon is 1,820 feet deep and draws the most climbers.
The Gunnison National Conservation Area and nearby parks are optimal locations for viewing diverse wildlife. The most common sights are yellow-bellied marmot, golden-mantled ground squirrels, mountain cottontail rabbits, and mule deer. More elusive species include the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep and elk. While rare, mountain lions, bobcats, and black Bears are occasionally spotted. The area's excellent bird-watching includes peregrine falcon, blue grouse, red-tailed hawks, turkey vultures, and golden eagles.
Bobcat Trailhead has a picnic table and shade at its entrance. Trailheads through the NCA have basic picnic facilities but are only reachable on foot.
South Rim Campground, located within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, has 33 electric-hookup sites that are back-in only. A limited number of sites can accommodate up to 55-foot vehicles. Pet-friendly Cedar Creek RV Park, in nearby Montrose, offers 45 full-hookup sites with Wi-Fi, showers, and a laundry facility.
Dispersed vehicle camping is available throughout the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area in areas not otherwise designated as campsites. Visits are limited to six consecutive nights except where posted otherwise. Primitive wilderness campsites and those along the river only allow tent camping and are limited to two nights. You can pay the nominal site fee at the trailheads or information centers. To find camping options in the area, search online for "BLM camping near me."
RV camping on Colorado's Western Slope places you among nature-rich geologic wonders. While Bureau of Land Management free camping is limited, Montrose and the nearby national parks offer excellent options with top-end amenities.
When planning your trip to Colorado, remember that the weather can change rapidly. Daytime highs can be oppressive, while nighttime lows dip below freezing. Always check the forecast and tell a friend or family member where you plan to hike before setting out.
Many of the roads around Bobcat Trailhead and the NCA are only navigable with a four-wheel drive vehicle. During rainstorms, they often become impassable. If you plan to kayak, canoe, or fish, you need to hike your gear to authorized launch sites and fishing areas.
The wildlife viewing in the area is exceptional, but it also creates the chance of mountain lion and bear attacks. Never run from a wild animal. In case of a bear encounter, back away slowly and avoid eye contact. If you encounter a mountain lion, make yourself appear as large as possible and slowly back away. If an attack seems imminent, throw rocks or sticks to deter the animal. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Leave No Trace principles are vital to the continued existence of Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Dishwashing and bathing must be done over 150 feet from the river using biodegradable soap. Strain your dishwater and pack out residue. Use portable toilet systems or BLM toilet facilities, or bury waste over 150 feet from water sources using the cathole method. Pack out toilet paper and sanitary items.
Bobcat Trailhead is accessed from Olathe, Colorado by driving 3.8 miles east on Falcon Road until it becomes gravel. Continue another 3.4 miles along the gravel road and turn right onto Bobcat Road. The trailhead is approximately 1.5 miles down the high-clearance road.
Ready to visit Bobcat 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.
