The best walks and hikes in The Blues Wilderness Study Area

The Blues WSA is a remote and rugged landscape intended for experienced hikers. There are very few marked trails, and you should be comfortable with off-trail navigation and route-finding. The terrain consists of soft, erodible blue-gray clay and sandstone badlands. Always check current conditions before you go, as heavy rain can cause dangerous flash floods. For the latest advisories, consult the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) page.

Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for hiking in this region. These periods typically offer more moderate temperatures. Summer can be extremely hot, and water is very scarce within the WSA. The area is also prone to flash floods during periods of heavy rain, which are more common during the summer monsoon season.

Yes, while the core WSA is rugged, there are accessible trails in the surrounding region. For a very short and rewarding walk, consider the Mossy Cave and Tropic Ditch Waterfall trail, which is less than a mile long. Another gentle option is the Pine Lake Trail, offering a pleasant walk in the nearby Dixie National Forest.

In The Blues Wilderness Study Area itself, which is managed by the BLM, dogs are generally permitted but must be kept under control. However, many of the popular established trails nearby are within National Parks like Bryce Canyon, which have stricter regulations. For example, dogs are typically not allowed on unpaved trails in Bryce Canyon. Always check the specific rules for the area you plan to hike.

The area is located in a remote part of Garfield County. Utah's Scenic Byway 12 runs along the southern boundary of the Wilderness Study Area. Access to the western part of the WSA is possible via Henderson Canyon Road (Road 383). Be prepared for backcountry roads that may require a high-clearance vehicle, especially after rain.

Yes, primitive, dispersed camping and backpacking are allowed within The Blues WSA. This means there are no designated campsites or facilities like water or restrooms. You must be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles. For specific rules and regulations, it's best to check with the Bureau of Land Management.

The Blues WSA and the surrounding lands provide habitat for a variety of desert wildlife adapted to the arid environment. While hiking, you might spot mule deer, coyotes, jackrabbits, and various species of lizards and birds. The area is also ecologically significant for several endangered species, so it's important to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their habitat.

Yes, there are some great loop trails in the vicinity. For an easy and scenic option, the Nature & Angels Palace Trails loop in Kodachrome Basin State Park is a fantastic choice. If you're looking for a very challenging, full-day adventure, the Navajo Loop Trail – Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon loop from Tropic offers a strenuous but rewarding experience through iconic landscapes.

The routes in and around The Blues Wilderness Study Area are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the profound sense of solitude and the unique, stark beauty of the blue-gray badlands and surrounding canyons.

Absolutely. Water is extremely scarce and unreliable within The Blues WSA. You must carry all the water you will need for your entire hike. Do not depend on finding natural water sources, as they are rare and may not be safe to drink.

The terrain is defined by its unique geology. Expect to hike through sparsely vegetated badlands of soft clay and sandstone, into deep valleys, and along exposed cliffs and hills. The ground can be soft and erodes easily, making footing tricky in places. Routes in the surrounding national forests and parks, like the Powell Point Trail, offer different experiences through higher-elevation forests.