Expansive high desert landscape rich in archaeological sites, sacred Indigenous landmarks, and rugged canyons ideal for hiking, camping, and cultural exploration.
General Information
Visitor centers have seasonal hours
Permits required for Cedar Mesa hikes and San Juan River trips
How to Get There
From Moab (120 mi): Take US-191 S to Blanding, then head west on UT-95 to access the northern section or south on UT-191 to Bluff and west on UT-162 for southern access points.
Overview
The Bears Ears National Monument spans over 1.3 million acres of southeastern Utah’s red rock wilderness, encompassing a landscape sacred to Native American tribes and rich with archaeological treasures. Named for the twin buttes that rise above the horizon, the monument protects thousands of cultural sites, including cliff dwellings, rock art, and ancient roads. Visitors can explore remote canyons, hike to ruins like House on Fire, or gaze upon the Valley of the Gods and Cedar Mesa. The monument is co-managed by the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, and the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition, reflecting its deep cultural significance.
Travelers should come prepared for rugged conditions, as many roads require high-clearance vehicles and cell service is limited. Permits are required for certain hikes and river trips, and visitors are encouraged to follow “Visit with Respect” guidelines to protect fragile archaeological resources. Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploration, while summer heat and monsoon storms can pose hazards. Whether you're drawn by the natural beauty, the cultural history, or the solitude of the high desert, Bears Ears offers a profound and humbling experience in one of the most storied landscapes in the American Southwest.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for Bears Ears National Monument, which are released under the https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/.