The best walks and hikes in Bears Ears National Monument

Yes, permits are often required. For many popular day-hikes on Cedar Mesa, including trails to significant archaeological sites, a day-use permit is necessary and can be obtained online. For backpacking in areas like Grand Gulch, different permits are required. It's essential to check the official regulations on the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website before your trip.

The best seasons for hiking in Bears Ears are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these months, temperatures are generally mild and pleasant for hiking. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in the exposed canyons, while winter can bring snow and cold temperatures, making some roads and trails inaccessible.

Yes, there are several accessible hikes suitable for families. The Butler Wash Interpretive Trail is a well-regarded one-mile round-trip walk on mostly flat rock that leads to an overlook of Ancestral Puebloan ruins. Another option is the short walk to the base of Owachomo Bridge within Natural Bridges National Monument, which offers impressive views for minimal effort.

Dogs are permitted in many parts of Bears Ears National Monument, but they must be leashed. However, dogs are strictly prohibited in all archaeological sites to protect these fragile resources. Always check specific trail regulations before you go, as rules can vary.

Bears Ears is famous for its archaeological sites. A great option for seeing well-preserved ruins is the Camp Jackson Trail, which takes you through historic areas. Another popular destination is Procession Panel, which features a remarkable 15-foot-long petroglyph panel accessible via a moderate trail.

Yes, the monument offers plenty of challenging terrain. For a long and demanding day, consider the Robertson Pasture Trail to Spring Creek Trail loop. This nearly 15-mile (24 km) route involves significant elevation gain and rewards hikers with solitude and expansive views of the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Bears Ears is a remote and rugged landscape with limited services. Cell phone reception is unreliable or non-existent in most areas. You must be self-sufficient. Carry a map, a compass or GPS device, and plenty of water—at least two liters per person, per day. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and let someone know your itinerary.

The trails in this region are very highly rated by the komoot community, earning an average score of 5.0 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning canyon scenery, the profound sense of history when visiting archaeological sites, and the opportunities for solitude.

Grand Gulch is the premier backpacking destination within Bears Ears, often described as an open-air museum of Ancestral Puebloan culture. A multi-day trip through this canyon system allows for in-depth exploration of numerous ruins and rock art panels. A permit is required for overnight trips into Grand Gulch and must be obtained in advance.

For a challenging route with over 3,000 feet (900 m) of climbing, the Shay Ridge Trail to Red Ledges Trail loop is an excellent choice. This difficult 13-mile (21 km) hike traverses varied terrain within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, offering a strenuous workout and rewarding scenery.

It is crucial to visit these sites with respect. Do not touch, lean on, or enter the fragile structures of the ruins. Do not touch rock art, as oils from your skin can cause damage. Leave all artifacts, including pottery shards and corn cobs, exactly as you found them. The phrase to remember is: 'Visit with respect'.

Beyond the ruins, the geology itself is a major attraction. Natural Bridges National Monument, located within the greater Bears Ears area, is a must-see. It contains three massive sandstone bridges—Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo—which can be viewed from overlooks or explored via a loop trail that descends into the canyon.