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) is a United States federal agency that oversees nearly 250 million acres of public lands throughout the country. The agency’s jurisdiction, which spans over a dozen states, includes thousands of miles of trails. Located near the city of Apple Valley, Utah, the North Rim Trail is a BLM-managed site. The trail is a moderate single-track trail that attracts both hikers and mountain bikers and offers outstanding valley views. When visiting, you'll find plenty of recreational opportunities nearby. Both Grand Canyon National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are less than 115 miles away from the trail. Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southern Utah, and Grand Canyon National Park stretches across the states of Utah, Colorado, Nevada, and Arizona. Zion National Park is the closest national park and is just a 43-mile drive from the trail. Along with nature trails and national parks, the North Rim Trail area also features a variety of Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Search “BLM camping near me” to learn more.
The North Rim Trail is the perfect place for hiking and biking activities. Serving as a portion of the Windmill Trailhead in the Canaan Mountain Wilderness, the trail is also ideal for bird watchers. Length: 2.1 miles Intensity: Moderate
Located within the confines of Zion National Park, Watchman Trail is a great hiking location for adventure seekers. This unpaved trail contains a rocky terrain and offers views of canyons and sandstone mountain peaks. Length: 3.3 miles Intensity: Intermediate
The 162-mile-long Virgin River can be accessed through several nearby cities, including La Verkin, Rockville, and even the ghost town of Grafton. The abundant fish population includes everything from spinedace and rainbow trout to channel catfish and flannelmouth suckers. Water-based activities include paddling, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.
With a peak of 4,812 feet, Bridge Mountain is a wonderful destination for trad climbing. Located in Springdale, UT, the mountain also offers several sub-peak routes. Lady Mountain is another Springdale peak that’s ideal for climbing enthusiasts. Formerly known as Mount Zion, the 6,945-foot peak provides beautiful canyon and mountain views.
Because the North Rim Trail is situated within the Canaan Mountain Wilderness, you should have plenty of opportunities to encounter fascinating wildlife species. The area is home to golden eagles, black bears, cougars, hawks, and deer.
If you would like to enjoy a picnic while taking in breathtaking scenic views, Grotto Picnic Area is a perfect choice. This Zion National Park feature offers plenty of shady areas as well as convenient restroom facilities.
Watchman Campground in Zion National Park provides electric hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, and group campsites. However, you must make reservations at least six months in advance to secure a site at Watchman. Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground in Virgin, UT is another nearby RV camping option. This upscale campground offers full hookups, free Wi-Fi access, a heated swimming pool, a seasonal ice cream shop, and shuttle rides to Zion National Park.
When it comes to Bureau of Land Management free camping opportunities, the North Rim Trail area doesn’t disappoint. The Hurricane Cliffs Trail System includes more than 50 dispersed sites. The Mammoth Designated Dispersed Camping Area features pull-through sites and restroom facilities.
The North Rim Trail contains both dirt and rock. Make sure that your hiking shoes and bike tires are equipped to handle the terrain. It can be a good idea to invest in a pair of trekking poles as well, but be sure to practice using them before your trip.
With a mean elevation of 6,100 feet, Utah boasts one of the highest altitudes in the United States. If you aren’t used to being at such altitudes. Try to acclimate yourself as much as possible before embarking on your hike or any other outdoor activity. Watch for signs of altitude sickness like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache. Anytime you're at altitude, staying hydrated is crucial, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
When you're hiking in the afternoon in the late spring and summer months, be on the lookout for snakes since some venomous rattlesnakes call southern Utah home. If you see a snake, give it plenty of space. Do not try to hurry it off the trail by throwing rocks at it, and keep your distance.
There are more than 20 restaurants within 40 miles of the North Rim Trail.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Help protect the North Rim Trail by properly disposing of all waste and trash, per the "Leave No Trace" guidelines. Take all of your belongings with you upon your departure. Do not disturb, pick, or extract any plant life and natural features. Feel free to take pictures of wildlife, but don’t interfere with, taunt, or touch any of the animals.
Starting from St. George, UT, take 1-15 N. Travel for about 6.7 miles, then take exit 16 toward Hurricane, UT. Drive for 9.9 miles before turning left onto State Hwy 59 S. Stay on State Hwy 59 S for 14 miles. Turn left onto Main St, and continue for about 7.5 miles until you reach your destination. Field Office Address: 353 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790 Ready to visit the North Rim 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.
