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 (BLM) was established in 1946 by President Harry S. Truman to help preserve the country’s vast public lands. The agency’s jurisdiction comprises 247 million acres of land, including thousands of miles of hiking, biking, and historic trails. Situated in Mesa County, Colorado, Pollock Bench Trailhead boasts gorgeous canyon, mountain, and river views. The perfect place for hikers and horseback riders, this outstanding trailhead offers access to various nature trails. Many of these trails lead to the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness. There are several national parks conveniently located within 115 miles of the trailhead. Canyonlands National Park is 113 miles outside of the Pollock Bench area. Arches National Park is about 101 miles away, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is just 86 miles away. In addition to nature trails, wilderness areas, and national parks, the Pollock Bench Trailhead area offers plenty of camping opportunities. An online search of “BLM camping near me” will provide helpful information about local camping sites.
Located near the cities of Fruita and Grand Junction, Pollock Bench Trail offers stunning views of several surrounding canyons, including Devils Canyon, Pollock Canyon, and Flume Canyon. During your hike, you will also be treated to views of bright-colored wildflowers, cactus blooms, and juniper trees. Length: 6.9 miles Intensity: Moderate
If you are looking for a more challenging trail, take a hike along Monument-Wedding Canyons Loop. Be advised that you may encounter steep portions, bighorn sheep, and loose soil. Length: 4.4 miles Intensity: Difficult
You can find plenty of fishing and boating opportunities along the nearby Colorado River. The fish population consists of largemouth bass, walleyes, razorback suckers, and cutthroat trout. Boating activities include kayaking, tubing, paddle boarding, canoeing, and jet boating. Located in Highline Lake State Park, Highline Lake offers boat ramps and an abundance of fish species. Anglers can fish for channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, and rainbow trout, while recreation enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, paddle boarding, and water skiing.
Known as one of the highest summits in the Rocky Mountains, Mount Lincoln boasts an impressive top elevation of over 14,000 feet. The peak is ideal for mountaineering and rock climbing. Riggs Hill in Redlands, Colorado, which has an elevation of 4,859 feet, is also great for bouldering and rock climbing.
Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness spans over 75,000 acres and houses an abundant wildlife population. These awe-inspiring animals include golden eagles, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, and deer. If you are a bird enthusiast, you should check out Rabbit Valley and the Unaweep Seep Natural Area. You may encounter bald eagles, black-chinned hummingbirds, Brewer’s sparrows, yellow-breasted chats, and American goldfinches.
Admire the unique desert setting while enjoying an outdoor meal at Saddlehorn Picnic Area. Contained within the Colorado National Monument, this picnic spot features dozens of picnic tables, charcoal grills, and a seasonal drinking fountain.
In addition to hikers and outdoor adventurists, the Pollock Bench Trailhead welcomes horse lovers. Take in the gorgeous desert scenery while riding on horseback. The site even offers parking spaces that can accommodate horse trailers.
Take an RV Camping trip to the desert at Saddlehorn Campground, conveniently located near the Colorado National Monument Visitor Center. This area provides a basic camping experience, complete with charcoal grills, picnic tables, and flush toilets. There are no electric hookups. If you want a more upscale or luxury RV camping experience, check out Canyon View RV Resort in Grand Junction, CO. Amenities include a swimming pool, pavilions, a soccer field, tiled showers, laundry facilities, and full hookups.
Miracle Rock Dispersed Camping in Glade Park, Colorado is one of several Bureau of Land Management free camping options. There are vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables available for your convenience. You can find other free Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness as well as the McInnis National Conservation Area.
Pollock Bench Trailhead provides easy access to Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness. Make sure you only hike along designated trails. If possible, map out your desired trail routes before you embark on your trip.
The trailhead offers a host of outstanding canyon views. Bring your phone or a small camera to snap a few photos during your hike.
Some trails contain rocky areas that require a little extra effort to traverse. Ensure you are properly dressed and have appropriate footwear to handle these areas.
If you need a break from cooking over a campfire, there are more than 20 restaurants within 25 miles of the Pollock Bench Trailhead.
During your visit to the Pollock Bench Trailhead, you will have a chance to view beautiful desert scenery and fascinating animal species. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Pollock Bench Trailhead and all other BLM lands are only as great as we make them. Work together with your fellow visitors by properly disposing of all your waste and trash. Make sure to bring all of your belongings with you when you leave. You are free to observe the plants, rocks, and paleontological features. However, do not touch or take any of them with you. For your safety and the safety of native animals, don’t get too close to any of the wildlife.
Starting in Grand Junction, take I-70 West to exit 19. Turn left and continue for about 1.5 miles until you reach Kingsview Road. Turn right and continue for 1.2 miles. Kingsview Road will then turn into Horsethief Canyon Road. Continue down Horsethief Canyon Road for two miles until you reach your destination. Latitude / Longitude: 39.155, -108.779 Ready to visit the Pollock Bench 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.
