For the Blanding Visitor Center, hours are 8 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundays. The Bears Ears Education Center in Bluff is open 9 am to 5 pm, Thursday through Monday, from March to November. The Edge of the Cedars Museum is open 9 am to 5 pm, but hours may vary. The Kane Gulch Ranger Station hours are not specified.
There is no entrance fee to Bears Ears National Monument. However, some areas have a $5 per person day use fee, or a $40 annual pass for all vehicle occupants.
From Moab, take Highway 191 south, then Highway 261 north, and immerse yourself in ancient cliff dwellings and majestic buttes, a testament to Native American heritage and natural splendor.
Parking options at Bears Ears National Monument are limited and often informal. There are no designated parking lots, but you can park near trailheads and campgrounds. Overnight parking is allowed in some areas, but there are no specific facilities for RVs or motorcycles. No parking fees are mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the heart of southeastern Utah, Bears Ears National Monument stands as a testament to the region’s extraordinary natural and cultural richness. This vast and diverse landscape, established by President Barack Obama in 2016, is named after the towering Bears Ears buttes, which rise over 9,000 feet above the surrounding terrain. The monument encompasses a sprawling area that includes the Comb Ridge formation, Indian Creek Canyon, the Valley of the Gods, and the Dark Canyon Wilderness, each segment offering a unique tapestry of red rock, juniper forests, and high plateaus.
The area is a treasure trove of archaeological sites, with over 100,000 sites protected within the monument, including ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings like House on Fire and Moon House. The terrain is dotted with Wingate Sandstone formations, sacred to numerous Native American tribes who have ancestral ties to the land.
For the adventurous, Bears Ears offers a myriad of activities such as hiking the rugged trails of the Valley of the Gods, backpacking through the Dark Canyon Wilderness, and rock climbing on the precipitous faces of Comb Ridge. River rafting down the San Juan River and off-highway vehicle excursions are also popular, providing a thrilling way to explore the monument’s vast expanse.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape in vibrant hues; spring brings a burst of wildflowers, summer offers warm days ideal for hiking and rafting, while autumn transforms the juniper forests into a kaleidoscope of golden and crimson shades. Winter, though quieter, presents a serene landscape blanketed in snow.
Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting nearby towns like Bluff and Blanding, known for their artisanal shops and rich historical heritage. The Manti-La Sal National Forest, which partially falls within the monument, provides additional recreational opportunities and scenic drives.
To fully experience the monument, consider guided tours with local outfitters such as Four Corners Guides or NavajoYES, which offer insights into the area’s historical and cultural significance. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the town of Moab, with its upscale lodges and restaurants, is a short drive away and offers a perfect base to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
- Area (mi²)
- 2112
- Annual visitors
- 450 000
- Established year
- 2016
Top 3 Facts about Bears Ears National Monument
A singular petroglyph etched into the cliff face of Upper Sand Island may be 13,000 years old, making it one of the oldest known rock carvings in the region. This ancient artwork is a significant cultural and historical treasure.
Explore a realm where desert cacti and succulents coexist with mountainous forests of birch, oak, and pine. Here, over 1,000 plant species thrive, including asters, columbine, and monkey flowers. Wildlife abounds with mule deer, Rocky Mountain elk, and desert bighorn sheep. More than 200 bird species, including the California condor and Mexican spotted owl, take to the skies. Rivers are home to the Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker, while desert tortoises and lizards like the twin-spotted spiny lizard inhabit the arid landscapes. This diverse tapestry of flora and fauna invites you to an unparalleled natural experience.
Towering buttes rise over 9,000 feet, sculpted by centuries of wind and water, overlooking landscapes of juniper forests, desert habitats, and natural hanging gardens. The area’s diverse terrain supports a rich array of flora, including cacti, succulents, and wildflowers like asters and columbine, amidst the stark beauty of Wingate Sandstone formations.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring or fall for mild temperatures. Plan several days to explore vast trails and sights. Drive from Moab or Blanding, and stop at the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum for context. Bring ample water, hats, and rest often. Limited dining options available.
Pack Appropriately
Pack breathable clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. Bring layers for cooler evenings, a first aid kit, and ample water. For camping, include a well-ventilated tent, portable stove, and non-perishable food. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the land by staying on trails, avoiding nesting sites of Golden Eagles and Peregrine Falcons, and not removing plants or rocks. Bring water, sun protection, and respect tribal heritage. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, watch for weather changes, and keep a safe distance from wildlife. Check park alerts and follow signs. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 435-587-1500. Exercise caution near ledges, water, and hot springs. Stay informed about fire restrictions and local conditions.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (40s-70s°F) and vibrant landscapes. Enjoy the Cedar Mesa pot hunting season in April, or the annual Bluff Arts Festival in late April. Ideal time to explore before summer monsoons and winter snows. Be prepared for occasional rain and cooler nights.
Explore ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs amidst soaring summer temperatures (80s-90s°F). Attend the Bears Ears Summer Gathering in July, a celebration of Pueblo culture and unity. Be prepared for dry heat and potential thunderstorms. Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking rich cultural and natural experiences.
Experience the serene beauty of autumn from September to October, with mild temperatures ranging from 48°F to 77°F. Enjoy clear skies and dry weather, ideal for hiking and exploring ancient ruins. The annual Four Corners Navajo Fair takes place in October, offering a glimpse into indigenous culture. A perfect time for a visit, avoiding the summer heat and winter chill.
Winter brings icy landscapes and temperatures often below zero, with significant snow pack from November to April. While evenings can be extremely cold, the serene snow-covered vistas offer a unique solitude, but many roads are impassable, making it a challenging yet breathtaking season for the adventurous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Bears Ears National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest town to Bears Ears National Monument is Bluff, Utah. Blanding, Utah, is also a nearby city, but Bluff is generally considered the nearest town.
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Dogs are allowed in many areas, but they must be leashed and kept away from cultural resources like rock imagery and structures. They are not permitted in Grand Gulch, Slickhorn Canyon, Point Lookout Canyon, and the McLoyd Canyon/Moon House Ruin Recreation Management Zone. Always clean up after your dog and keep them on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
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You can park an RV in designated areas, but there are restrictions. Dispersed camping, including with RVs, is not allowed near developed recreation sites like campgrounds or trailheads. Larger RVs may not fit in all areas due to the need to stay on designated routes and avoid altering campsites.
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You need a permit for certain activities, such as hiking in Mule Canyon/House on Fire, floating on the San Juan River from April 15th to July 15th, and for overnight trips which can be reserved online at recreation.gov. However, private day and overnight use at Indian Creek does not require a permit as of the new management plan effective in January 2025.