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 is a federal agency that maintains millions of acres of public land in the United States. Outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more natural and less crowded experience than traditional campgrounds prefer staying at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. The campgrounds allow campers to explore and enjoy the unique landscapes and ecosystems these public lands offer. However, keep in mind that when Bureau of Land Management camping, there are usually no services available, and you cannot stay in the same spot for more than 14 days within a 28-day period. If you've been researching "BLM camping near me," Hidden Canyon Trail in Utah, mere minutes from Zion National Park, is a great option. The trail area features hiking, wildlife viewing and other exciting outdoor activities. Hidden Canyon Trail is also close to several iconic national parks. The closest, Bryce Canyon National Park, is a mere hour and 55 minutes northeast of Hidden Canyon Trail. In Arizona, just two and a half hours southeast of the trail, is the majestic Grand Canyon National Park. Also nearby are Capitol Reef National Park (three and a half hours to the northeast) and Canyonlands National Park (five hours and 45 minutes to the northeast).
This round-trip hike features steep dropoffs, narrow paths, and a beautiful hanging canyon. Hidden Canyon Trail leads to an arch and a hidden alcove, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Length: 2.2 miles Intensity: Moderate
This round-trip trail provides some of the most incredible views in Zion National Park. Observation Point Trail climbs to 6,508 feet and offers panoramic views of the park, including the iconic Angels Landing. Length: 8 miles Intensity: Strenuous
One of the most famous hikes in Zion Park, Angels Landing Trail features a steep and narrow path leading to a spectacular viewpoint. The last half mile of the trail involves navigating steep dropoffs and holding onto chains for support. Length: 5.4 miles Intensity: Strenuous
This hike takes you through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. The Narrows requires that hikers wade through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls. You can choose between a bottom-up day hike or a more challenging top-down overnight hike. Length: Up to 16 miles depending on the route Intensity: Moderate to strenuous
This is a popular mountain biking destination located 50 minutes southwest of Hidden Canyon Trail. Gooseberry Mesa offers a mix of technical singletrack and slick rock trails, and you can take advantage of the incredible views of the beautiful landscape. Length: Various trails ranging from 1 to 20 miles Intensity: Moderate to difficult
An hour west of Hidden Canyon Trail, Red Cliffs Recreation Area features several hiking trails that wind through red rock formations, desert landscapes and riparian habitats. Some popular trails include the Red Reef Trail, which leads to a natural water slide, and the Anasazi Trail, where you can see ancient Native American rock art. Length: Various trails ranging from 0.5 to 5 miles Intensity: Easy to moderate
Although Hidden Canyon Trail doesn't offer fishing or boating opportunities directly, you can venture to nearby locations for these activities. The Virgin River, located close by, is popular with anglers looking to catch brown and rainbow trout. Check local regulations, and obtain a fishing license before casting your line. About an hour southwest of Hidden Canyon Trail, Sand Hollow State Park is an ideal boating, fishing and swimming destination. The park has a reservoir where you can rent boats or bring your own. Fish species commonly found in the reservoir include largemouth bass, bluegill and black crappie. The park also features sandy beaches for sunbathing and swimming.
Hidden Canyon Trail, situated in the unique ecosystem of southern Utah, offers a chance to spot various native wildlife. As you hike through the trail, you may encounter mule deer and desert bighorn sheep grazing among the plants or navigating the rugged terrain. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate the numerous bird species, such as peregrine falcons, golden eagles and canyon wrens, soaring above the canyon or perched on rock formations. The area is also home to smaller creatures like the desert spiny lizard and the side-blotched lizard, which can be found basking on sunlit rocks. Remember to keep a respectful distance from wildlife, and never feed or disturb them.
Although there are no designated picnic areas at Hidden Canyon Trail, visitors can still enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the breathtaking views from the alcove at the end of the trail. The Grotto in Zion National Park is a lovely spot where you can have a picnic under a canopy of cottonwood trees.
RV camping at the Hidden Canyon Trail isn't available, but the nearby Watchman Campground, 15 minutes southwest of Hidden Canyon Trail in Zion National Park, is a great option for RV campers. This campground provides RV-accessible sites, dump stations and potable water. Zion Crest Campground & RV Park, 50 minutes east of Hidden Canyon Trail, provides full-hookup, back-in sites. There also is Wi-Fi, a laundry room, a shower house and a grill.
Dispersed camping is permitted on BLM land near Hidden Canyon Trail. One area you may want to stay at is Zion Scenic Byway Dispersed Camping, 45 minutes southeast of Hidden Canyon Trail in Mount Carmel. There are no services at this remote location. BLM RV camping is also available at Lava Point Campground, which is an hour and 20 minutes northwest of Hidden Canyon Trail in Zion National Park. The campground provides six primitive sites that must be reserved. There are trash cans and pit toilets at the campground, but there isn't any water.
When planning your trip to Hidden Canyon Trail, remember to pack plenty of water, sunscreen and appropriate footwear for hiking. The area can be hot and dry, so staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun is essential. Additionally, respect the natural environment by obeying the "Leave No Trace" principles. Make reservations in advance. Campgrounds near Hidden Canyon Trail, such as Watchman Campground in Zion National Park, can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Therefore, booking your campsite in advance is essential to secure a spot. Before you head out on your trip, find out all you need to know about BLM camping.
It's crucial to clean up after yourself and follow the "Leave No Trace" principles when Bureau of Land Management free camping on public land. These rules include properly planning and preparing for your trip, refraining from disturbing the natural surroundings and minimizing the effects of campfires.
Hidden Canyon Trail is situated within Zion National Park in Utah. The trailhead can be accessed from the Weeping Rock parking area, found in Springdale. To reach the trailhead from Springdale, head east on UT-9 E/Zion Park Blvd for approximately 1.4 miles, and then turn right onto Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Continue on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive for about 5.6 miles until you reach the Weeping Rock parking area. Hidden Canyon Trail begins near the Weeping Rock shuttle stop. Ready to visit Hidden Canyon Trail? 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.
