The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Tabeguache Trail in Colorado begins in Shavano Valley and ends in No Thoroughfare Canyon just outside of the city of Grand Junction. This trail crosses 142 miles of public land and includes many mesas and canyons. Most of the trail is on remote lands far from any form of civilization. Trail markers are placed every mile and at every junction. Tabeguache is under the supervision of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which strives to protect local wildlife and flora. You can hike or bike the path or explore the trail with an ATV. The BLM recommends against off-roading in muddy areas and prohibits ATV use in single-track sections. The nearby Uncompahgre Plateau offers great climbing opportunities and is very popular during hunting season.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is less than 30 miles away. You can also visit Mesa Verde National Park, which is about 150 miles north. Montrose, Colorado is the largest city in the area, with a population of just over 20,000. You can also stop at one of the smaller communities like Olathe or Delta.
This loop trail has a lot of shade and spectacular views of the nearby valley as well as the San Juan Mountains. Plan your visit in the spring or summer to see bountiful fields of colorful wildflowers.
Length: 8.4 miles
Intensity: Hard
Starting in the city of Montrose, this trail follows the Uncompahgre River south toward Vernal. Enjoy gorgeous views of the river and surrounding trees. You may even see some local birds or eagles diving for fish.
Length: 14.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
Try running or hiking this out-and-back trail near Olathe. There's little shade, but the terrain is relatively flat with minimal elevation.
Length: 6.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The nearby Uncompahgre River offers year-round fishing opportunities. You'll find plenty of brown trout, rainbow trout and river cutthroat. The Gunnison River in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has four species of trout and is perfect for fly-fishing, spinning or baitcasting.
The city of Montrose is surrounded by a variety of mesas and ranges. Bring a friend along as you climb the High Mesa, Flat Top, Franklin Mesa, Beaver Hill or Spring Creek Mesa. Don't forget to pack plenty of water and be aware of the forecast for the day before starting your climb.
Colorado is known for its thriving elk, moose and bald eagle populations. You may also spot prairie dogs, coyotes, pronghorns, rattlesnakes, bison and black bears. Mountain lions are typically quite elusive, but there's always a chance one of these predators may have wandered into the area.
There are several great parks and resting areas a quick drive away from the Tabeguache in Montrose. You can also take your breaks next to your parked RV or while you're out exploring BLM lands. Always thoroughly clean up after your group and leave no trace of your visit behind.
If you're looking for a challenge, take your ATV out on the Tabeguache Trail. This trail spans 142 miles of land, which would take days to traverse on foot. Streamline your adventure by exploring the mesas and rolling hills of Colorado on an off-roading vehicle. Always be respectful of private property, and keep an eye out for grazing livestock.
As you're planning your Colorado RV camping trip, consider camping at local Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. BLM Chukar Trailhead, BLM Ute Trailhead and BLM Escalante Potholes Recreation Site are primitive campsites that charge a small fee and offer picnic tables, cabanas and/or fire rings. While these sites often have vault toilets and basic amenities, they don't include electricity, water or sewage facilities. Staying at a BLM campground helps to fund BLM initiatives that protect the land and wildlife.
You can also set up a tent or park your RV at a modern campground like King's River Bend RV Park and Cabins down in the heart of Montrose. This site is open throughout the year and offers great access to the city, as well as showers, hookups and high-speed Wi-Fi. Valley Sunset RV Ranch is another popular choice in Delta, Colorado. Rent one of the homey cabins and spend your afternoons in the game room or lounging near the on-site pool.
As you're searching for BLM camping near me, don't forget to consider local dispersed camping options. Bureau of Land Management free camping spots are available throughout the area, allowing campers to park their RVs near highways and in flat, empty areas. You can also set up a tent near the trails or in the forests. Watch for signs indicating camping is prohibited.
The Tabeguache Trail is rough and adventurous, requiring all visitors to be self-sufficient and responsible. Take a topographic map with you, or rely on a quality GPS. Bring a few friends to maximize your safety and fun. Prepare for your trip by learning more about backcountry survival and exploration.
Be sure to bring plenty of extra water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Never push yourself to exhaustion, and make camp early if you begin to feel too tired. Know the local hunting dates so you can avoid startling the animals or hunters in the area. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Practice Leave No Trace principles as you explore BLM lands. Remove all trash, debris and food you bring on your trip. Be respectful of fellow hikers and local wildlife. Bury your waste at least 8 inches down and 200 feet away from any water source, trail or road. Don't take any rocks or plants with you when you leave.
Start in Poncha Springs and head west on CR 140. Travel for about 1.7 miles and then turn right onto CR 250. Drive four miles until you reach FR 252 and continue for another three miles until you see the Tabeguache trailhead.
Address: 2465 S Townsend Avenue, Montrose, CO 81401
Ready to visit Tabeguache? 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.
