The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
While the two-mile path up Mount Garfield near Palisade, Colorado can be very challenging, and you may want hiking poles before attempting the descent, the views from the top are worth the effort. This site, just off Interstate 70, is a great option for a hike lasting several hours. This location is approximately 51 miles from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, 64 miles east of Arches National Park, and about 100 miles from Canyonlands National Park.
There are many beautiful Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in this region. Some are located near scenic hiking trails whereas others are near outstanding fishing holes. Looking for "BLM camping near me" when you're up for an adventure is a great way to save money as you can usually stay at Wyoming BLM campgrounds for up to two weeks.
This trail at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, starting at the North Rim Ranger Station, is an excellent option for bird lovers because you are likely to spot mountain bluebirds building their nests in the spring and great-horned owls throughout the year. The course runs to Exclamation Point with its stunning views of the inner canyon. Your sense of smell will be delighted as you wander through the pinyon and juniper forest.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The best way to explore this trail at Arches National Park is to join a ranger-led hike. You will love exploring this maze of sandstone fins although you may need to hike sideways to get through spaces where the walls almost meet. This trail can get very warm in the summer, so bring water.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail starts off Grand View Point Road in the Island in the Sky section of Canyonlands National Park. Expect this hike to take you all day to complete. You will be hiking through an open mesa at the start of this hike before dropping into Murphy Basin. There are over 1,400 feet of elevation loss along this trail.
Length: 10.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Animas River is a terrific place for fly fishing. It is the last remaining freestone river in Southwest Colorado. While many choose to fish this river in Durango, Colorado, there are many options for fishing this river higher in the mountains. Anglers often catch brown and rainbow trout on midges and blue-winged olives in the spring.
Officially named Things of Beauty, nine towers a short distance off Interstate 70 at the Palisade, Colorado exit are great climbing. These spire towers offer a degree of risk because they are crumbly sandstone. In order to access this area, get off at the exit, and take the G 7/10 Road. You have arrived at this destination when it goes under the interstate and curves to the right.
The Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Range is a terrific spot to see wildlife. Most visitors come to this area to see the horses that are less skittish than in many areas because of the number of visitors annually. You will also likely see elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, snowshoe hares, and wild turkeys at this site.
Highline Lake State Park near Loma, Colorado is a beautiful spot for a picnic. You can choose a location above either lake and watch people playing and fishing. Bring your swimsuit so you can take a dip after your picnic.
There are many opportunities to go RV camping near Mount Garfield. North Fruita Desert Campground is a terrific option for those who love mountain biking since there are over 58 miles of biking trails nearby. Wolcott Campground is a good place to start a rafting adventure on the Colorado River. The boat ramp and campground are open from mid-May to mid-November.
Grand Valley Open OHV Area offers great Bureau of Land Management free camping opportunities near Grand Junction, especially if you love to go off-roading. Rabbit Valley Motorized Area near Grand Junction offers three campgrounds. Jouflas Campground has picnic tables, grills, and a non-flush toilet. There is one site at Castle Rocks Campground that has fire rings and two picnic tables. Knowles Overlook Campground offers beautiful views of McInnis Canyon. Find more spots by searching "BLM camping near me" when you get to Colorado.
Consider the weather if you plan on heading to Mount Garfield. The coldest month is December, when the average temperature is 24 degrees. If you decide on a winter hiking adventure, dressing in layers of natural fibers is a great idea. Be sure that the top layer blocks the wind efficiently. Summer temperatures often reach into the mid-70s, which is terrific hiking weather.
There are many reasons to go camping at BLM campgrounds throughout the year as different activities are available depending on the season, and the scenery is constantly changing. While you are deciding when to go on your camping adventure, take time to read more about BLM camping before your trip.
There is no trash service at Mount Garfield. Therefore, whatever you decide to bring in, make sure to carry the trash from it back out with you. This is a beautiful area, and you do not want to ruin it for others by leaving your trash behind.
Take Exit 42 off Interstate 70, and turn right on 37 3/10 Road. Cross an irrigation canal, and turn to the right on G 7/10 Road. This curvy road will cross under the interstate. You will see the signage for the Mount Garfield trailhead very shortly.
Address: Mount Garfield, G 7/10 Road, Palisade, Colorado 81526
Ready to visit Mount Garfield? 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.
