The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Tucked away in the southeast corner of Utah is the unique landscape of Bears Ears National Monument. One of many beautiful natural areas under the protection of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Bears Ears National Monument is a popular destination for its fascinating rock art, breathtaking views, top-notch rock climbing, and peaceful opportunities for BLM camping.
Visitors from all over the country regularly travel to this gorgeous national monument to camp overnight in the fresh air and to experience wonderful outdoor recreation. Many who visit the area will also spend a day or two exploring the nearby Canyonlands National Park to the north, which features a stunning landscape of canyons and unique geological formations. Although Bears Ears National Monument is in a remote section of Utah, there's no shortage of beautiful scenery or awesome activities to enjoy.
The Wolfman Panel Trail lies within the Bears Ears National Monument near the town of Blanding, UT. The out-and-back trail consists of a short walk down into Butler Wash to see the unique Wolfman Panel rock art. The trail shouldn't take more than 30 minutes to traverse, but it's worth noting that there are a couple of mildly challenging areas. The petroglyphs alone are worth the trip, but visitors will also get to enjoy some beautiful desert scenery and excellent views of the nearby canyons.
Length: 0.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Another excellent trail near this BLM site is the Monarch Cave via Comb Ridge route. The out-and-back trail takes you up a narrow canyon and to a cool cave. You can't actually enter the ancient ruin, but you can get close enough to get a fantastic view of it. The ideal time to explore this trail is between April and October, and you'll likely be able to enjoy some solitude in the gorgeous scenery. You can also bring your dogs with you, and they can even go off leash on some parts of the trail.
Length: 1.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
If you're hoping to see an awesome selection of ancient petroglyphs, the Procession Panel Trail is a route you'll want to check out. After climbing the slick rock trail to the top of Comb Ridge, you'll find many amazing panels of fascinating rock art. The trail is moderately difficult, and hikers should only traverse it if they don't mind climbing a bit of steep elevation.
Length: 2.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Some of the best fishing opportunities near Bears Ears National Monument are found in the Colorado River, which flows roughly 30 miles west of the BLM site. As far as angling goes, the majestic river is primarily known for its large population of catfish. Those who want to cast their lines will find miles of accessible shoreline and various sandy beaches. Kayaking, canoeing, and floating are all great options if you want to spend a fun day out on the water.
Bears Ears National Monument is well-known for its world-class rock climbing opportunities, and climbers from all over the country journey there every year to experience the monument. The area features excellent sandstone crags, which can mostly be found around the Indian Creek section of the site. If you're an experienced and adventurous climber, you can head to the Valley of the Gods. This remote climbing area is notorious for its loose rock, so it should only be attempted by skilled climbers during ideal weather conditions.
Although you may spot some interesting creatures around the Bears Ears National Monument area, you may find superior wildlife viewing opportunities at nearby Canyonlands National Park. Many different species roam the canyons of the park, including bobcats, elk, foxes, coyotes, skunks, black bears, cougars, and many others. The area offers fantastic bird-watching opportunities as well. If you stay alert, you'll have a good chance to spot a sharp-shinned hawk, red-tailed hawk, golden eagle, or bald eagle.
Bears Ears National Monument BLM site features several camping areas, and you should find picnic tables at each of them. Otherwise, you'll need to set up your own picnic area. Wherever you choose to enjoy your snack or meal, you'll be treated to a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
If you want to enjoy some BLM RV camping around Bears Ears National Monument, you have a few options. The only Bureau of Land Management campgrounds around the site are a few different group campsites, which offer primitive setups. Alternatively, you can travel east to the nearby highway and stay at one of the more modern RV parks, such as Blanding RV Park.
You can enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping all around Bears Ears National Monument. If you choose to go the route of dispersed camping, you'll need to stake out an area for your campsite and provide all of your own supplies. If you don't mind roughing it among the canyons and desert landscape, you should be able to find a spot with plenty of solitude and a gorgeous view.
When you're planning a trip to the Bears Ears National Monument, make sure you're prepared to have unreliable cellphone coverage. If you're visiting during the summer or fall, you should also be aware of the potential for flash floods. Stay away from the area during heavy rains. If you do any hiking or climbing around the canyons, make sure you know your escape routes and are paying attention to changing weather conditions. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
To help keep the site pristine, it's crucial that you leave no trace on the land during your visit to Bears Ears National Monument. Since you may not find any places to dispose of your trash, be sure to remove it when you leave the site. Please also leave anything you find on the land the way you discovered it because altering or removing things could disrupt the local ecosystem.
Bears Ears National Monument BLM site covers land that's located near the communities of Bluff, Blanding, Monument Valley, Mexican Hat, and Monticello. There are numerous highways that offer access to different portions of the site. You can reach the BLM site via Highway 191, 211, 261, 163, or 95.
Ready to visit Bears Ears National Monument? 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.
