The best walks and hikes in Bears Ears National Monument

For day hiking in most areas, a permit is not required. However, permits are necessary for overnight backpacking in many parts of the monument, as well as for visiting specific culturally sensitive sites like Moon House. Regulations can change, so it's always best to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the most current requirements before your trip.

Yes, the monument has many accessible trails suitable for families. A great option is the Sipapu Bridge Trailhead – Sipapu Bridge loop from Blanding. This short walk descends into the canyon to the base of a massive natural bridge and is a rewarding experience for all ages. Another popular and easy choice is the Butler Wash Interpretive Trail, which leads to an overlook of well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.

Hiking to the numerous Ancestral Puebloan sites is a highlight of visiting the monument. When you visit, please follow “Visit with Respect” principles. This means not touching petroglyphs, pictographs, or structures, and leaving all artifacts exactly as you find them. Staying on designated trails helps protect both the fragile desert environment and these irreplaceable cultural treasures for future generations.

You can explore nearly 90 different hiking trails within Bears Ears National Monument. The selection ranges from short, easy walks to viewpoints and ruins, to strenuous multi-day backpacking expeditions through remote canyons.

The trails in Bears Ears National Monument are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning red rock scenery, the profound sense of history, and the opportunity to connect with the landscape in solitude.

Dogs are generally permitted on trails within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service lands that make up much of Bears Ears, but they must be under your control at all times. However, within the boundaries of Natural Bridges National Monument, pets are not allowed on any trails. Always check specific regulations for the area you plan to hike.

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are the ideal seasons for hiking in Bears Ears. These months offer pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Summers can be extremely hot, often exceeding 100°F (38°C), making strenuous activity difficult and risky. Winter can bring snow and ice, potentially making some roads and trails impassable.

Bears Ears is an exceptional backpacking destination, offering solitude and adventure in its vast canyons. There are 10 designated difficult routes perfect for experienced backpackers seeking a challenge. Popular areas for multi-day trips include the canyons branching off Cedar Mesa. Remember that overnight trips require careful planning, sufficient water, and a permit for most areas.

Bears Ears National Monument is a remote and largely undeveloped area with very limited services. You will not find reliable cell service, water fountains, or visitor centers in most parts of the monument. It is essential to arrive with a full tank of gas, plenty of food, and more water than you think you will need.

Absolutely. The Indian Creek Corridor Scenic Byway (Highway 211) offers spectacular views of the red rock cliffs and canyons characteristic of the Indian Creek Unit. Along this drive, you can easily access Newspaper Rock, one of the largest and most impressive petroglyph panels in the country, located just a short walk from the road.

Yes, the region is famous for them. Natural Bridges National Monument, which lies within the boundaries of Bears Ears, contains three spectacular bridges. You can hike down to the base of Kachina Bridge and Owachomo Bridge on moderately difficult trails. For a different kind of view, the Rooster Butte to Views of Monument Valley hike offers expansive vistas that include the iconic formations of the region.