Bursting with the awe-inspiring natural icons of the Colorado Plateau, San Juan County, Utah is indeed one of the world’s greatest travel destinations. From Canyonlands National Park in the north to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park in the south, Utah’s Canyon Country offers one of the best vacations ever!
This is the full text of the San Juan County Visitor Guide: scenic locations, activities, museums and scenic byways, followed by the guide’s directory of lodging, campgrounds, dining, guides and outfitters, communities, airports and visitor centers.
Contents
- Scenic locations: Canyonlands National Park (Needles District), Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Bears Ears National Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Goosenecks State Park, Needles Overlook, Grand Gulch, Cedar Mesa, Valley of the Gods, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Lake Powell, Four Corners Monument, Manti-La Sal National Forest, San Juan River
- Activities: rafting, hiking and backpacking, ATV, biking, fishing, horseback riding, golfing, rock climbing and canyoneering, stargazing, winter activities, museums, scenic byways, Native American cultural sites
- Services: lodging, commercial campgrounds, public campgrounds, dining, guides and outfitters, our communities, airports, visitor information
Scenic locations
The Needles District, Canyonlands National Park
Location: 50 miles (80.5 km), 55 minutes from Monticello on UT-211.
As the largest national park in Utah covering 527.5 square miles (1,366.2 km), Canyonlands National Park is divided into three distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles District, and the Maze. Horseshoe Canyon is also part of Canyonlands but it is geographically separate.
Named for the Cedar Mesa Sandstone spires that jut up from the landscape, The Needles District of Canyonlands has roughly 74 miles (119 km) of hiking trails ranging in various difficulties and sceneries. The Needles Campground provides overnight accommodations for visitors who want to stay longer in order to experience more of the beautiful red rock spires.
Things to do
- 2 hours: Stop at the visitor center to learn about the history of Canyonlands and the geological formation of the park. Take the scenic drive to see the Needles District rock formations and views of the surrounding landscape.
- Half day: Take the scenic drive through the park and hike some of the easy, short trails in the park, such as Cave Spring, Pothole Point, and Roadside Ruin.
- Full day: Immerse yourself in the park by hiking some of the longer trails such as Chesler Park, the Confluence Overlook, or Druid Arch.
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Location: 5 miles (8.1 km) east of US-163, approximately 23 miles (37 km) southwest of Mexican Hat.
Natural forces of wind and water have eroded the land in Monument Valley for over 50 million years. As the wind and water cut into the surface of the layered sedimentary rock, unique buttes and pinnacles were formed, creating a stunning scene as you look over the horizon. The tallest butte in Monument Valley rises over 1,000 feet (304.8 m) above the valley floor. Shrubs, trees and windblown sand are also part of the magnificent colors of the valley making it a wonderful place to visit.
This natural wonder is the perfect place for guided tours, jeeping, hiking and more. Enjoy a tour with a native guide, shop for authentic native art, and view daily screenings of movies filmed in Monument Valley at the Earth Spirit Theater at Goulding’s Lodge. Visit the museums at Goulding’s Lodge and the park visitor center.
Things to do
- 2 hours: Take in the view of the Left and Right Mittens and Merrick Butte from the overlook at the visitor center. Shop for Native American art and jewelry in local gift shops and vendor booths. Participate in a short tour with a Navajo guide and learn about Navajo history, culture, and film history of Monument Valley.
- Full day: Visitors with more time can experience a full-day tour to Monument Valley and adjacent Mystery Valley. Tours will visit numerous natural stone arches, as well as petroglyphs and pictographs.
Natural Bridges National Monument
Location: 39 miles (63 km) or 45 minutes from Blanding along UT-95.
Named the first International Dark Sky Park in the world, Natural Bridges National Monument provides an opportunity to view up to 15,000 stars in the night sky without obstruction. This monument also shelters three of the world’s largest natural stone bridges including Sipapu Bridge—which is taller than the capitol building in Washington D.C.—Kachina Bridge and Owachomo Bridge. Whether you are hiking, sightseeing or participating in a ranger-led astronomy program, Natural Bridges is beautiful day or night.
Things to do
- 2 hours: Drive the 9-mile (14.5 km) scenic loop and enjoy spectacular views of White Canyon. Stop at the overlooks for all three bridges (Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo), and enjoy the short .5 mile (804.7 m) round-trip hike to Owachomo Bridge for amazing photo ops!
- Half day: Stop at the visitor center to learn about the formation of the park and discover the difference between natural bridges and arches. Drive the 9-mile (14.5 km) scenic loop and hike to a couple of the bridges with additional stops at overlooks as time allows.
- Full day: Spend the day hiking a loop through the bottom of White Canyon that winds under or past all three natural bridges; Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo. Stick around after your hike to enjoy a ranger-led dark sky program in the world’s first International Dark Sky Park (offered late spring through early fall).
Hovenweep National Monument
Location: 42 miles (67.6 km) or 50 minutes from Bluff and 46 miles (74 km) or 54 minutes from Blanding.
Hovenweep National Monument offers the experience of true exploration among its sites and camouflaged pictographs and petroglyphs. Structures were built on the canyon surface by the Ancestral Puebloan people who once thrived here. Dwellings were also built into overhangs and along canyon walls. The people who lived here over 10,000 years ago were hunter/gatherers who foraged the landscape to gather plants and hunt game. By A.D. 900 settlements began to appear and by the late 1200s, Hovenweep was home to over 2,500 residents.
The Ancestral Puebloan towers of Hovenweep were built between A.D. 500 and 1300. The structures vary in shape and size including circular kivas (ceremonial rooms) and towers, and square or D-shaped dwellings. A visitor center is located on site, as well as hiking trails, restrooms, and a campsite at the Square Tower Group.
Things to do
- 2 hours: Walk the paved, .32-mile (515 m), roundtrip path from the visitor center to Canyon Overlook on the rim of Little Ruin Canyon. From the overlook, enjoy views of several Square Tower Group structures as well as Sleeping Ute Mountain.
- Half day: Explore several of the six prehistoric villages constructed between A.D. 1200 and 1300—Square Tower, Cutthroat Castle, Horseshoe, Hackberry, Holly, and Cajon. Marvel at a variety of structures including multi-story towers perched on boulders and square, circular, and D-shaped structures, as well as ceremonial kivas.
Bears Ears National Monument
Location: UT-211, 30 minutes northwest of Monticello.
Two towering buttes stand out against the landscape, a broad expanse of red rock, juniper forests and high plateaus. Within the 1.36 million acres of Bears Ears National Monument, visitors can learn about cultural, historic and prehistoric legacies through cultural resources such as ancient cliff dwellings, granaries and kivas as well as artifacts such as ancient tools and pottery. Petroglyphs and pictographs are also found in abundance within the monument.
Indian Creek area
To avoid the summer heat, the best times to visit Bears Ears National Monument are March through late May and September through October. Drive the Indian Creek Corridor Scenic Byway and admire the scenery of the monument area. Bears Ears National Monument is open year-round.
Located within the Indian Creek area, Newspaper Rock showcases more than 2,000 years worth of petroglyphs engraved by Puebloans and other cultural people. As one of the biggest petroglyph collections in the country, visitors stand at the base and look at the 200-square foot (18.5-square meter) rock and try to decipher its meaning. Newspaper Rock is like a living museum located 15 miles (24 km) west of US-191 along the Indian Creek Corridor Scenic Byway (UT-211).
Things to do, 2 hours: Drive scenic byway 211 through Indian Creek to the border of the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park and stop at Newspaper Rock to view a large petroglyph panel representing multiple cultures. The oldest carvings at Newspaper Rock date back almost 2,000 years and the panel includes carvings representing Archaic, Anasazi, Fremont, Navajo, Anglo, and Pueblo cultures.
Cedar Mesa area
Location: 10 minutes from Bluff, 20 minutes from Blanding.
The Cedar Mesa area of Bears Ears National Monument encompasses a fascinating array of geological and archeological features. Along with the legacy of previous Native American residents, the greatest modern interest is remnants of incredible cliff dwellings. These dwellings were built with stone and adobe mortar into the sides of mesas, mountains and caves. Many are in remarkably good condition, even after hundreds of years of vacancy and were once used as protection and storage. The area is collectively a part of the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway.
Things to do
- 2 hours: Stop at Butler Wash and Mule Canyon sites to see examples of two different archaeological structures, commonly found in Utah’s Canyon Country. At Butler Wash, a 1-mile (1.6 km) roundtrip trail leads to an overlook of several cliff-dwelling sites comprised of habitation, storage, and ceremonial structures. Mule Canyon allows visitors to view an underground, ceremonial kiva structure.
- Half day: Hike to an archaeological site along Hwy 95 such as House on Fire or Cave Towers, or take in spectacular views of Arch Canyon from Arch Canyon Overlook.
- Full day: Start your day with a stop at Edge of the Cedars State Park to see one of the Four Corner regions’ largest collections of Ancestral Puebloan pottery and artifacts. Then, climb down into a 1,000-year-old kiva located on the museum grounds. Continue your day by exploring an archaeological site or scenic overlook along Hwy 95 such as House on Fire, Cave Towers, or Arch Canyon Overlook (4WD/high clearance required for many sites).
Edge of the Cedars State Park
Location: 600 W 400 North, Blanding.
Within the desert landscape of southern Utah is the Edge of the Cedars State Park and Museum, where visitors can learn about the lifestyle and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people. The Puebloan lifestyle is shown in many ways throughout the 6.65 acre park, including the restored kiva located behind the museum. Archaeologists excavated and restored the 1,000 year-old kiva to give visitors a first-hand look at the unique underground structure, and allow them to experience the environment used for religious rituals and political meetings.
Just as archaeologists excavated the kiva outside, they work inside the museum to restore the Puebloan pottery. The museum displays the largest collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery in the Southwest. The delicate and beautifully-painted pottery along with other artifacts are shown in permanent exhibits that can be seen year-round. Temporary exhibits throughout the year are also shown. Both types of exhibits are a good activity for children and adults.
Things to do, 2-3 hours: Explore this hidden gem to see one of the Four Corner regions’ largest collections of Ancestral Puebloan pottery and artifacts. Enjoy the unique ‘visible storage’ display which allows visitors to view one-of-a-kind artifacts normally kept in closed storage. Visitors can also climb a replica ladder down into a 1,000-year-old kiva located on the museum grounds.
Goosenecks State Park
Location: UT-316, 8 miles (13 km), 11 minutes from Mexican Hat.
Millions of years ago, the land at Goosenecks State Park was flat. Then, the San Juan River meandered, the land rose upward, the river flowed faster and the water cut into the stone giving us what you can now see today—a powerful, natural landscape.
Take a moment to stand on the rim of the canyon and overlook the San Juan River over 1,000 feet (305 m) below. This small park offers over 300 million years of geology spread below the viewpoint along with the river weaving for 6 miles (10 km) back and forth in a distance of one and a half miles (2.4 km) advancing west. Visit the park during the evening to see thousands of twinkling stars, as Goosenecks is a designated International Dark Sky Park.
Things to do, 30 minutes-1 hour: View the largest entrenched river meander in North America from the overlook at Goosenecks. From the overlook, visitors can observe where the San Juan River twists and turns, flowing a distance of over 6 miles (9.7 km) while advancing 1.5 miles (2.4 km) west toward Lake Powell.
Needles Overlook, Canyon Rims Recreation Area
Location: 20 miles north of Monticello, then 23 miles west on Hwy 133 (total driving time/distance from Monticello is 58 minutes/43 miles).
Imagine sitting 1,600 feet (486 m) above the Needles District of Canyonlands. The Needles Overlook offers nearly 360-degree views of the sandstone structures that line your horizon view. Experience serenity as you will most likely have the whole place to yourself. Stop at the three other overlooks within the Canyon Rims Recreation Area as you drive along County Rd 132. There is no entrance fee.
Grand Gulch
Location: On UT-261 between UT-95 and Mexican Hat - 36 miles (57.9 km) or 39 minutes west of Blanding and 33 miles (53.1 km) or 44 minutes north of Mexican Hat.
Experience the primitive outdoors with day and overnight hikes through Grand Gulch’s 50-mile (80.5 km) canyon system. The rugged and remote backcountry showcases Ancient Puebloan sites as well as petroglyphs and pictographs in their natural setting. This popular hiking area features miles of winding trails as visitors work their way through the serpentine canyon. Hiking through this backcountry area requires a permit.
Cedar Mesa
Location: Along UT-95, about 17 miles (27.4 km) (20 minutes) west of Blanding and UT-261 14 miles (22.5 km) (25 minutes) north of Mexican Hat.
Within the Cedar Mesa area, there is a large plateau that extends over 400 square miles (1,063 square km). One way to access Cedar Mesa is by driving UT-261. The Moki Dugway, a 3-mile section of unpaved switchbacks, is located on this road. To the east of Cedar Mesa is a jagged monocline named Comb Ridge that curves for 80 miles (128.7 km) across UT-95 and US-163. Nearby, Butler Wash showcases fragile, unrestored, Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, petroglyphs and other remains of their lifestyle in A.D. 1200.
Cave Towers, located in Mule Canyon, features the remains of towers built by the Ancestral Puebloan people. Additional nearby structures are tucked into alcoves along the canyon walls and are fragile and unrestored. No matter what part of Cedar Mesa you explore, excellent adventures through history in a wonderful setting await.
Things to do
- 2 hours: Stop at Butler Wash and Mule Canyon Ruins to see examples of two different archaeological structures, commonly found in Utah’s Canyon Country. At Butler Wash, a 1-mile (1.6 km) roundtrip trail leads to an overlook of several cliff-dwelling sites comprised of habitation, storage, and ceremonial structures. Mule Canyon allows visitors to view an underground, ceremonial kiva structure.
- Half day: Hike to an archaeological site along Hwy 95 such as House on Fire, Cave Towers, or take in spectacular views of Arch Canyon from Arch Canyon Overlook.
- Full day: Start your day with a stop at Edge of the Cedars State Park to see one of the Four Corner regions’ largest collections of Ancestral Puebloan pottery and artifacts. Then, climb down into a 1,000-year-old kiva located on the museum grounds. Continue your day by exploring an archaeological site or scenic overlook along Hwy 95 such as House on Fire, Cave Towers, or Arch Canyon Overlook (4WD/high clearance required for many sites).
Valley of the Gods
Location: Between US-163 and UT-261, about 14 miles (22.5 km) northwest of Mexican Hat.
You won’t forget this backcountry adventure through freestanding sandstone monoliths, delicate spires and long rock fins. To explore Valley of the Gods, you can drive a scenic 17-mile (27.4 km) loop. This scenic drive is an easy and beautiful way for all visitors to experience the beautiful and natural sights.
Things to do, 2 hours: Drive the scenic 17-mile (27.36 km) loop to view beautiful Cedar Mesa sandstone monoliths, pinnacles, and other geological features of this area known as a ‘miniature Monument Valley’. For visitors looking for a longer stay, dispersed camping is allowed in Valley of the Gods; however, no campfires are allowed.
Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Location: On Lake Powell - accessible via 50 mile (one-way) boat tour from Wahweap Marina.
Created from sand dunes up to 5,000 feet (1,524 m) deep that hardened to rock, Rainbow Bridge is a Navajo Sandstone beauty. The bridge spans 275 feet (83.8 m) across Bridge Creek in an almost perfect arch. The top of the arch is 42 feet (12.8 m) thick and 33 feet (10 m) wide.
Rainbow Bridge is the world’s largest known natural bridge. The bridge holds significance to the native people in the area and continues to inspire many of the 300,000 visitors each year. Located near Lake Powell, visitors can visit by boat or obtain a permit from Navajo Parks and Recreation to take the two-day hike from the small community of Navajo Mountain.
Lake Powell / Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Location: Halls Crossing - Hwy 276, and Hite Marina - Hwy 95.
Located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Powell is the perfect gathering place for hiking, boating, fishing and more. Many visitors find the remote backcountry a challenging adventure. The deep, red-rock canyons are not only beautiful to see, but are the perfect backdrop to all the activities you can experience.
There are activities for everyone to enjoy at Lake Powell, whether on land or on water. On the water, many enjoy fishing, boat tours and watersports. On the land around the lake, visitors can hike to Rainbow Bridge and other nearby sights, stop by the visitors center and stay at campgrounds. The lake is just one aspect of the recreation area that encompasses over 1.2 million acres with experiences reaching far beyond the water.
Four Corners Monument
Location: Off US-160, located 48 miles (54 min) from Bluff.
Many visitors travel by tour bus or car in order to stand in Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado all at one time! Four Corners Monument is the only place in the United States where four states share a single point.
Things to do, 30 minutes-1 hour: View the only place in the United States where four states share a single point on the compass—Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado meet at this point. The marker offers a great photo opportunity, as well as entertainment watching other visitors get creative for their own photos. Shop the vendor stalls surrounding the monument for locally made items such as jewelry, arts and crafts, pottery, sand paintings, and more. Traditional Native American food is also available to purchase.
Manti-La Sal National Forest
Location: Abajo Mountains - County Road 101, 2.5 miles (4 km) or 5 minutes west of Monticello. La Sals - UT-46, 2.5 miles (4 km) or 4 minutes north of La Sal.
The San Juan County portion of the Manti La Sal National Forest consists of two mountain ranges: The La Sals and the Abajos. These two isolated areas rise over 12,000 feet (3,657.6 m) in elevation and have pine, fir and aspen trees that contrast with the red-rock canyons. The forest habitat is home to a dense population of black bear and the largest population of elk in Utah.
Many trails are provided for numerous activities including hiking, jeeping, biking, ATVing and horseback riding. Some trails can lead to sweeping views of the Four Corners region.
Things to do
- 2 hours: Take a scenic drive on County Rd. 1010 from Monticello, traveling 17 miles (27.36 km) along the side of the Abajo Mountains before reaching the junction of Hwy 211, to the Indian Creek area of Bears Ears National Monument and the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. This paved route provides spectacular views of the desert as well as access to several small fishing lakes and great opportunities for wildlife viewing!
- Half day: Drive the Abajo Loop Scenic Backway between Monticello and Blanding (County Rd. 285/Forest Rd. 79). This route climbs to 9,000 feet (2,743.2 m) in elevation and traverses 30 miles (48.3 km) of mountainous terrain as it skirts the base of Abajo Peak. This route provides access to many well-maintained and signed, multi-use trails of varying difficulties.
- Full day: Drive Elk Ridge Road (Co Rd 228/Forest Rd 88) which can be accessed 10 miles (16.1 km) southwest of Blanding. This road parallels Hwy 95 between Blanding and Natural Bridges and offers visitors who want to get ‘off the beaten path’ access to many amazing but lesser-visited hiking trails such as the Dark Canyon Wilderness Area, Arch, Allen, and Hammond Canyons. Elk Ridge Road passes between the Bears Ears Buttes just before rejoining Hwy 95 just outside of Natural Bridges National Monument.
San Juan River
It is amazing how much one river can offer visitors looking for adventure. There are three ways to experience the San Juan River. First, you can see the river from above as you overlook its twisting and turning at Goosenecks State Park. Second, adults and children alike can experience the river while rafting through its waters. Local rafting companies guide visitors through the river in rafts, kayaks, and SUPs that showcase the calm and rapids of the river. Third, you can see world-class petroglyphs, pictographs and archaeological sites leaving a historic record along the San Juan River walls between Bluff and Mexican Hat as you hike, drive, or float through the area.
Activities
Rafting and kayaking
Twisting and turning its way through southeastern Utah, the San Juan River is the perfect place to cool off during the hot summer months. Approximately 100 miles (161 km) of the river is accessible by rafts, canoes and kayaks. Accessible areas of the river are split into two different sections: the upper and the lower. The upper section starts at Bluff and stretches for 27 miles (43.5 km) to Mexican Hat, and the lower section starts at Mexican Hat and travels for 58 miles (93.3 km), ending at Clay Hills near Lake Powell.
Not only do guided river rafting tours take adventurers to unique sites, but they also cover the permits required by local land management agencies. Permits are needed to float all parts of the San Juan River, as well as for hiking or camping on the south side of the river, which is on the Navajo Reservation. Wild Expeditions and Ancient Wayves River & Hiking Adventures are the perfect local guides that will meet all of these permit and adventure needs. (See Guides and outfitters below.)
Hiking and backpacking
Hike for hours or days through Utah’s Canyon Country all year round. No matter how much time you have, there’s a beautiful hike waiting for you to explore. Experience towering needles in Canyonlands National Park, the twisting and turning of the San Juan River in Goosenecks State Park or mountain peaks rising to nearly 13,000 feet in the Manti La Sal National Forest. Visitors backpacking through the area have the opportunity to see more remote areas including Salt Creek in Canyonlands, Grand Gulch on Cedar Mesa, and Dark Canyon stretching from the Abajo Mountains to the Colorado River in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
| Area hikes | Short (2 miles / 3.2 km or less) | Moderate (5 miles / 8 km or less, moderate elevation gain) | Difficult (6 miles / 9.7 km or more) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canyonlands National Park | Cave Spring, Pothole Point | Chesler Park, Slickrock Trail | Chesler Park/Joint Trail, Confluence Overlook, Druid Arch |
| Natural Bridges National Monument | Owachomo Bridge | Kachina Bridge, Sipapu Bridge | Natural Bridges Loop |
| Bears Ears National Monument / Cedar Mesa | Butler Ruins, Cave Towers | House on Fire | Kane Gulch |
| Hovenweep National Monument | Rim Trail Loop |
More detail on each hike: Hiking Guide (text version).
ATV
Four-wheeling through the backcountry trails of San Juan County is the ultimate way to experience the area firsthand. Hire a local All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) or Jeep guide to give you a tour of the area.
ATV trails by area:
- North of Monticello: Hook & Ladder, Falls Missile
- Blanding: Arch Canyon, Elk Ridge, Shay Ridge
- Bluff: River House
- Halls Crossing / Hite: Piute Pass, Jacobs Chair, Hole-in-the-Rock
Biking
It is common for travelers to hike to different destinations, but have you ever thought of biking through them? Utah’s Canyon Country is filled with diverse backroads and trails through canyons, forests and deserts. The scenery along the highways is magnificent for cycling and passes through deserts, mountains, and over plateaus. Due to the varying terrain in the area, a guide is recommended. Don’t forget to stop and take photos along the way!
- Abajo Foothills Trail System (beginner, intermediate)
- Bulldog (expert)
- Robertsons Pasture (expert)
- Shay Ridge (expert)
- Spring Creek (beginner)
Fishing
Just as the terrain is diverse, so are the fish in Utah’s Canyon Country. Manti La Sal National Forest and Lake Powell among others are great places to go fishing. Local reservoirs are stocked with fish and ready for your next fly or lure. Blanding reservoirs, Monticello Lake and Foy Lake in the Abajo Mountains are great places to find trout. The San Juan River is great for carp and channel catfish. Lake Powell is excellent for striped bass.
Horseback riding
Some visitors forgo the vehicles to explore the backcountry on horseback. The Navajo people consider horses an integral part of their culture. Horses for all ability levels are available for tours of Monument Valley. Sunrise and sunset horseback tours allow riders views of the valley with the changing sunlight. Sunset and sunrise tours are exceptional because of the various colors that illuminate the valley.
Golfing
The Hideout Golf Course in Monticello, Utah has earned recognition as one of the region’s premier golf experiences. The golf course showcases a wide variety of scenery year-round. The 18-hole course has different elevations that will challenge your ability. The course also has a driving range, practice greens and a 3-hole junior course for younger golfers. 435-298-8120
Rock climbing and canyoneering
Explore the canyons and mountains on a whole new level! Utah’s Canyon Country is the home to world class climbing and canyoneering. Indian Creek, a world renowned rock climbing destination, is best known for its sandstone crack lines. If traditional climbing is not your game, there are several small hidden climbing gems that dot the region from the La Sals and Abajo Mountains to the red rock canyons around Bluff.
Some of the most beautiful slot canyons are found in the area. From beginner to challenging narrow slots, Utah’s Canyon Country has a canyon to be explored at any level.
Whether a beginner or an expert, local guides and outfitters can help put your vertical limits to the test. It is important to remember that alteration of rock surfaces, removal of vegetation and climbing on petroglyphs is destructive and prohibited.
Stargazing
Those who visit Utah’s Canyon Country are often surprised by the magnificence of the region’s night skies. The International Dark Sky Association (IDSA) designated Rainbow Bridge National Monument as the fourth Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world. The IDSA defines Dark Sky Sanctuaries as “the most remote (and often darkest) places in the world whose conservation state is most fragile.”
Not surprisingly, the IDSA has awarded various dark sky designations to several other locations throughout Utah’s Canyon Country. Natural Bridges National Monument, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument and Goosenecks State Park are International Dark Sky Parks — locations with exceptional starry nights that have been protected for scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage or public enjoyment. Natural Bridges was actually the first location in the world to be named an International Dark Sky Park.
Areas for great stargazing: Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Goosenecks State Park, Canyon Country Discovery Center.
Winter activities
Utah’s Canyon Country offers activities all year-round. In addition to hiking, biking and other activities mentioned, the Abajo (Blue) Mountains offer excellent opportunities for cross-country and backcountry skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. A popular access point is located 5 miles (8 km) west of Monticello on State Road 101/Forest Service Road 105 (accessed by turning west on 200 South on the north side of the Monticello Visitor Center).
Museums and education
While some of the county’s history can be learned and viewed outside, there are eight museums where visitors can learn even more about the history of the area. These museums are where the history and legends of the areas can come alive for visitors of all ages. Museum exhibits include many items from dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts and Pioneer buildings to the present day local quilting guild. Plan to take time to stop at one of these museums on your next trip.
| Museum | Town | Location | Phone | What you’ll find |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears Ears Education Center | Bluff | 567 W Main | 435-414-0343 | The center aims to teach people from near and far about the natural and cultural landscape of southeastern Utah and how to visit Bears Ears with respect. |
| Bluff Fort | Bluff | 55 N 6 East | 435-672-9995 | Explore the sites of the original Bluff Fort built in the late 1800s. Recently built ‘Pioneer’ cabins and a replica of the original mercantile building are also on the grounds for travelers to view. |
| Canyon Country Discovery Center | Monticello | 1117 N Main | 435-587-2156 | Discover the natural history and landscapes, people and places, land use and energy, astronomy, water, and climate of the Colorado Plateau through hands-on exhibits. The center also houses an observatory, rock-climbing wall, nature playscape, and numerous walking trails. |
| The Dinosaur Museum | Blanding | 754 S 200 West | 435-678-3454 | Walk through the complete history of the dinosaurs through skeletons, fossilized skin, eggs, footprints, art graphics and realistic sculptures. Enjoy a special exhibit called the Hall of Hollywood Dinosaurs and see how dinosaurs make their appearance in many movies. |
| Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum | Blanding | 660 W 400 North | 435-678-2238 | Learn about the lifestyle and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people. The Puebloan lifestyle is shown in many ways including a restored kiva—an underground ceremonial structure—pottery, woven baskets and sandals, and more. |
| Frontier Museum | Monticello | 216 S Main Street | 435-587-3401 | Ever wonder what life was like on the frontier? Visit an original post-and-beam barn with displays including everyday items used on the edge of the Great Sage Plains. |
| Goulding’s Trading Post Museum | Monument Valley | County Road 421 | 435-727-3225 | Stop by the original trading post from the 1920s to see the family residence, a film about the history of the valley, store items on display and more. |
| Hole-“N”-The-Rock | South of Moab | 11037 US-191 | 435-686-2250 | Almost one century ago, a miner and his family carved their home in the cliff. View 14 rooms around huge sandstone pillars created in this unusual living space. |
| Pioneer Park | Monticello | S Main Street | Explore this park containing replicas of historic Monticello buildings. |
Scenic byways and drives
Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway (time: varies)
The Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway is a network of roads connecting archaeological, cultural, and scenic sites and locations throughout southeastern Utah and southwestern Colorado. Stops along Trail of the Ancients include Monument Valley Tribal Park, Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments, Edge of the Cedars and Goosenecks State Parks, as well as several archaeological sites such as Butler Wash and Mule Canyon. For those who wish to visit all the sites along the byway, allow 1-2 days. The best way to experience Trail of the Ancients is on a loop from Monument Valley to UT-261, UT-95, US-191 and US-163 back to Monument Valley. Road conditions vary from paved highways to native surface, some requiring stiff suspension or high clearance vehicles. Many sites are on or within a short distance of a paved road. During stormy weather, local inquiry should be made about road conditions.
A two-day route along the byway: 2-Day Trail of the Ancients Itinerary (text version).
Moki Dugway & Muley Point (time: 1 hour)
The Moki Dugway is literally carved from the cliff face and talus slope on the edge of Cedar Mesa. The route connects UT-95 with US-163 by crossing Cedar Mesa and plunging into the dugway, revealing sweeping views of Valley of the Gods, the deep, entrenched canyon of the San Juan River, and Monument Valley on the southwest horizon. Muley Point is accessed via County Hwy 241, a 5 mile unpaved road off State Hwy 261, located at the top of the Moki Dugway.
Hwy 211 - Indian Creek to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park (time: 1.5 hours)
Drive across the high sage plains before plunging through a series of turns to Newspaper Rock Recreation Site. This road totals 35 miles (56.3 km) long leading visitors from Monticello at the junction of US-191 and US-211 through the Indian Creek area of Bears Ears National Monument and ending at the entrance of the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. This scenic drive is the perfect way to explore the area, see Native American petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock and picnic before heading to Canyonlands.
Abajo Loop State Scenic Backway (time: 3 hours)
This scenic byway hugs the base of Abajo Peak and traverses 30 miles (48.3 km) of mountainous terrain. Climbing to 9,000 feet in elevation through the mountains between Monticello and Blanding, the single lane of graded gravel or dirt road is rough and rocky. The route accesses many well-maintained and signed hiking trails of varying difficulty. High clearance and stiff suspension are recommended. The route is impassible during the winter and after rainstorms.
Elk Ridge State Scenic Backway (time: 4 hours)
This 50-mile route begins 25 miles (40.2 km) west of Blanding near the junction of UT-95 and UT-275. Climbing to an elevation of 8,700 feet, the byway ascends to the spine of Elk Ridge. The backway crosses the Blue Mountains and ends in the high desert at UT-211. The route accesses many well-maintained and signed hiking trails of varying difficulty. High clearance and stiff suspension are recommended. The route is impassible during the winter and after rainstorms.
The byway map in the PDF also shows the Bicentennial Highway (Scenic Byway UT-95).
Native American cultural sites
Native American history and culture can be found throughout Utah’s Canyon Country. Ancient Native American sites showcase petroglyphs, pictographs and archaeological structures. Museums offer visitors the opportunity to view artifacts from the Four Corners region including pottery, woven baskets and projectile points. Goulding’s Trading Post Museum in Monument Valley is an original trading post, which provides a glimpse into a bygone era. Newspaper Rock, a 200-square foot (18.5-square meter) rock face located in Indian Creek, exhibits petroglyphs carved by Native Americans over 2,000 years ago. Each location, whether outdoor or indoor, highlights the lifestyle and culture of the Native Americans of this area.
- Edge of the Cedars State Park / Blanding
- Hovenweep National Monument / UT/CO border near Blanding
- Butler Wash Ruin / UT-95 near Blanding
- Cave Towers / UT-95 near Blanding
- Mule Canyon Kiva / UT-95 near Blanding
- River House Ruin / County Road 2351 near Bluff
- Sand Island Petroglyph Panel / near Bluff
- Big Kachina Panel / near Bluff
- Newspaper Rock / UT-211 near Monticello
Services
Lodging
Amenities as marked in the guide: horse stables, pet friendly, wireless, accessible, pool, EV charging, in-room extras (microwave, refrigerator, in-room coffee and/or continental breakfast) and restaurant (on premises or within walking distance, or meals available).
Blanding
| Name | Address | Phone | Website | Units | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abajo Haven Guest Cabins | Blue Mt. Road | 435-979-3126 | abajohaven.com | 4 | horse stables, wireless, pool (lake) |
| Stone Lizard Lodge | 88 West Center | 435-678-3323 | stonelizardlodge.com | 17 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| The Blanding Bunkhouse | Stevens Road | 435-459-1537 | blandingbunkhouse.weebly.com | horse stables, pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras | |
| Rodeway Inn & Suites | 711 South Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-678-3271 | choicehotels.com | 52 | wireless, accessible, pool, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Four Corners Inn | 131 East Center (Hwy 191) | 800-574-3150, 435-678-3257 | fourcornersinn.com | 32 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Prospector Motor Lodge | 591 South Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-678-4022 | prospectormotorlodge.com | 19 | wireless, in-room extras |
| Ranch Cabin | 6198 S. Hwy 191 | 435-220-1050 | canyonlandslodge.com | 1 | horse stables, pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Camp Jackson | 1800 N. Johnson Creek Rd. | 435-220-1050 | canyonlandslodge.com | reunions, retreats, groups | horse stables, pet friendly, accessible, pool, in-room extras |
| Blue Sage Inn & Suites | 132 S Main St. | 435-220-0299 | bluesageinn.com | 8 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Arch Canyon Inn | 755 S Main St. | 435-678-3880 | archcanyoninnblanding.com | 59 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Bears Ears Inn | 34 E Center St | 435-270-4760 | thebearsearsinn.com | 58 | wireless, accessible, pool, in-room extras |
Bluff
| Name | Address | Phone | Website | Units | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluff Gardens Cabins | 550 East Main St. | 800-595-7607 | thebluffgardens.com | 13 | wireless, in-room extras |
| Canyon Wren Bed & Breakfast | 323 North 6th East | 435-459-0160, 970-382-1642 | canyonwrenbnb.com | wireless, in-room extras | |
| Cottonwood Cabins | Highway 191 | 435-672-2287 | 7 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras | |
| La Posada Pintada | Navajo Twins Drive | 435-459-2274 | laposadapintada.com | 10 | wireless, accessible, in-room extras |
| Desert Rose Resort & Cabins | 701 W. Main St. (Hwy 191) | 888-475-7673, 435-672-2303 | desertroseinn.com | 52 | wireless, accessible, pool, in-room extras, EV charging |
| Kokopelli Inn | 160 East Highway 191 | 435-672-2322 | kokoinnutah.com | 26 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras |
| Mokee Motel | 5th West & Hwy 191 | 435-672-2242 | 7 | wireless, in-room extras | |
| Recapture Lodge | 260 E. Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-672-2281 | recapturelodge.com | 26 | pet friendly, wireless, pool, in-room extras |
| Willow Street Cottages | 65 Willow St. | 435-485-0318 | 2 | pet friendly, accessible, in-room extras, restaurant | |
| Bluff Dwellings Resort | 2625 S. Highway 191 | 435-670-4514 | bluffdwellings.com | 58 | wireless, accessible, pool, in-room extras, restaurant, EV charging |
Lake Powell
| Name | Address | Phone | Website | Units | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halls Crossing Marina | Highway 276 | 800-528-6154, 435-684-7000 | lakepowell.com | 10 family units, reservations only | pet friendly, accessible, pool, in-room extras |
| Hite Marina | Highway 95 | 435-233-6822 | ticaboo.com | 3 stationary RV rentals | pet friendly, in-room extras |
Mexican Hat
| Name | Address | Phone | Website | Units | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canyonlands Motel | Highway 163 | 435-683-2230 | 10 | restaurant | |
| Hat Rock Inn | Highway 163 | 435-683-2221 | hatrockinn.com | 40 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, pool, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Mexican Hat Lodge | Highway 163 | 435-683-2222 | mexicanhatlodge.com (seasonal entertainment) | 10 | horse stables, pet friendly, wireless, pool, in-room extras, restaurant |
| San Juan Inn (yurts & house) | Hwy 163 @ the Historic Bridge | 800-447-2022, 435-683-2220 | sanjuaninn.net | 36 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Valley of the Gods B&B | County Road 242 | 970-749-1164 | by reservation only | 4 | in-room extras |
Monticello
| Name | Address | Phone | Website | Units | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abajo Lodge | 197 E. Center St | 435-587-2261 | abajolodge.com | 35 | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, pool |
| Atomic Blue Motor Inn | 232 N. Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-587-2251 | atomicblue.com | 24 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Blue Mountain Vacations | 21 Pine View Rd | 435-429-2693 | bluemountainvacations.net | 3 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Canyonlands Lodging | 6198 South Highway 191 | 435-220-1050 | canyonlandslodging.com | 21, reunions, retreats, groups | horse stables, pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras |
| Canyonlands Motor Inn | 197 N. Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-587-2266 | canyonlandsutah.com | 32 | wireless, in-room extras |
| Canyonlands Dome Resort | N Crk Ln | 801-420-0572 | canyonlanddomes.com | 9 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Grist Mill Inn | 64 South 300 East | 435-587-2597 | thegristmillinn.com | 7 | wireless, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Indian Canyon Ranch | 48 Rosie Lane, Monticello | 626-533-5529 | indiancanyonranch.com | 6 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Inn at the Canyons | 533 N. Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-587-2458 | monticellocanyonlandsinn.com | 43 | wireless, accessible, pool, in-room extras, restaurant |
| The Monticello Inn | 164 E. Center St. (Hwy 491) | 435-587-2274 | themonticelloinn.com | 26 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras, restaurant |
| Rodeway Inn & Suites | 649 N. Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-587-2489 | rodewayinn.com | 40 | wireless, accessible, pool, in-room extras |
Monument Valley
| Name | Address | Phone | Website | Units | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firetree B&B | County Road 420 | 435-727-3228 | firetreeinn.com | 1 | in-room extras, restaurant |
North County
| Name | Address | Phone | Website | Units | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Step Hideaway | 2430 Lisbon Valley Rd, La Sal | 435-249-5567 | 3stephideaway.com | 7 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Base Camp | Hurrah Pass Road | 435-260-1783 | basecampadventurelodge.com | 11 | restaurant |
| Coyote Cabins | La Sal Mt. Loop Road | 888-820-8525 | coyotecabinrentals.com | 10 | pet friendly |
| Crooked Bindi Ranch | 4040 Kane Creek Blvd | 801-440-4498 | crookedbindiranch.com | 2 | |
| Funstays Redrock Park | 11830 US Hwy 191, Moab | 435-210-4077 | funstaysredrock.com | 6 | wireless, in-room extras, pet friendly |
| Hidden Oaks Lodge | 51 North Buckeye Road | 435-459-9505 | hiddenoakslodge.com | 5, retreats, reunions, groups | horse stables, pet friendly, wireless, accessible, in-room extras |
| Moab Guest Ranch | La Sal Mtn Loop Road | 888-879-6622 | packcreekranch.com (as printed) | 5 | pet friendly, pool |
| Mount Peale Country Inn & Cabins | 1415 E Highway 46, La Sal | 435-686-2284 | mountpealecountryinncabins.com | 6 | wireless, in-room extras |
| Pack Creek Ranch | La Sal Mtn Loop Road | 800-505-5343 | packcreekranch.org | 5 | pet friendly, pool, in-room extras |
| Red Desert RV Park | 5501 South Highway 191, Moab | 435-260-7674 | reddesertrvpark.com | 14 | pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Wolf Springs Ranch Cabins & Retreat | 1000 E. Wolf Springs Ranch Rd., La Sal | 435-260-8332 | wolfspringscabinrentals.com | 12 | horse stables, pet friendly, wireless, in-room extras |
| Glamping Canyonlands | 66 West, UT-211 | 727-385-5438 | glampingcanyonlands.com | 7, outdoor communal kitchen | |
| Ulum | 147 S Looking Glass Rd, La Sal | 888-969-4858 | ulumresorts.com | pet friendly, wireless, accessible, pool, restaurant, EV charging |
Commercial campgrounds
Blanding
| Campground | Location and contact | Hook-ups | Tent sites | Max ft. length | Wireless | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Pull through | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Mountain RV Park | 1888 South Highway 191 435-678-7840 • bluemountainrvpark.com | 26 | 15 | 40 | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | |
| Blanding RV Park | 861 South Highway 191 435- 678-2991 • blanding-rv-park.business.site | 52 | 16 | 40 | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | |
| Sunset Campground | 692 CR 232•435-459-1109 blandingsunsetcampground.com | 10 | 60 | yes |
Bluff
| Campground | Location and contact | Hook-ups | Tent sites | Max ft. length | Wireless | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Pull through | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cadillac Ranch RV Park | East Highway 191 435-210-8933 • cadillacranchrvparkutah.com | 15 | 15 | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Cottonwood RV Park | West Highway 191 435-672-2287 • cottonwoodrvpark.blogspot.com | 21 | 3 | 80 | yes | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Coral Sands RV Park | 94 South 6th West 970-397-1955 • 435-672-2232 • coralsandsrv.com • Covered Wagon | 36 | 80 | yes | yes | yes | yes |
La Sal
| Campground | Location and contact | Hook-ups | Tent sites | Max ft. length | Wireless | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Pull through | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote Springs RV Park | 45 E Markle 385-286-0308 • coyotespringsrv.com | 14 | 60 | yes | yes | |||||
| Wolf Spring Ranch Cabins & Retreat | 1000 E. Wolf Springs Ranch Rd • 435-260-4964 • wolfspringscabinrentals.com | 8 | 12 | 35 | yes | yes | yes |
Mexican Hat
| Campground | Location and contact | Hook-ups | Tent sites | Max ft. length | Wireless | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Pull through | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexican Hat Rocks | Hwy 163, 2 mi north of Mexican Hat 435-683-2221• mexicanhatrocks.com (Dispered campingsites) | 4 | yes | yes | yes | |||||
| Valle’s RV Park | Highway 163 435-683-2226 | 15 | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Monticello
| Campground | Location and contact | Hook-ups | Tent sites | Max ft. length | Wireless | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Pull through | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Canyon Ranch | 48 Rosie Lane 626-533-5529 • indiancanyonranch.com | 2 | 30 | yes | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Mountain View RV Park | 632 North Main St. (Hwy 191) 435-587-2974 • mountainviewutah.com | 29 | 5 | 70 | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | |
| Westerner RV/Trailer Park | 516 South Main St. (Hwy 191) 435-587-2762 • oldwestrvutah.com | 28 | 70 | yes | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Old West RV | 348 South Main St. (Hwy 191) 435-610-1499• oldwestrvutah.com • GlampingTents | 20 | 30 | yes | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Gemstone Campground | 120 S Hallers Rd 435-979-6498•gemstonecampground.com | 11 | 30 | 1 | yes | yes |
Monument Valley
| Campground | Location and contact | Hook-ups | Tent sites | Max ft. length | Wireless | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Pull through | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monument Valley KOA | Mile Post 2, Hwy 163 435-459-0477 • 800-562-3424 • koa.com | 56 | 5 | 75 | yes | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Sleeping Bear Campground | 5 Miles North of Gouldings Jct CR 89/Douglas Mesa Rd•435-444-7777 | 30 | yes | yes | yes |
North County
| Campground | Location and contact | Hook-ups | Tent sites | Max ft. length | Wireless | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Pull through | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Area BFE | 1 Strike Ravine Safari Route, Moab 719-647-2297 • 719-821-3818 • areabfe.com | 100 | yes | yes | yes | |||||
| Needles Outpost | 1.5 miles from the Needles District of Canyonlands on Hwy 211 • 435-459-0777 • needlesoutpost.com | 26 | 42 | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Red Desert RV Park | 5501 South Highway 191, Moab 435-260-7674 • reddesertrvpark.com | 58 | 5 | 70 | yes | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Roughlock Resort | 8 Miles north on Hwy 191 435-587-2351 • canyonlandsbestkeptsecret.com | 6 | 8 | 36 | yes | yes | yes |
Public campgrounds
CANYONLANDS NP (nps.gov/cany)
| Campground | Phone / info | Location | Toilets | Showers | Max ft. length | Sites | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Picnic tables |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Needles Campground | 435-719-2100 (general info), 435-259-4711 (district) | 35 miles west on UT-211 from US-191 north of Monticello | yes | 28 | 26 | yes | yes | yes | yes | |
| Willow Flat Campground | 435-719-2100 (general info), 435-259-4711 (district) | 41 miles west on UT-313 from US-191 north of Moab | yes | 28 | 12 | yes | yes | yes | yes |
DEAD HORSE POINT SP (res 800-322-3770, stateparks.utah.gov/reservations)
| Campground | Phone / info | Location | Toilets | Showers | Max ft. length | Sites | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Picnic tables |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kayenta Campground | 435-259-2614 | 30 miles west on UT-313 from US-191 north of Moab | yes | 30 | 21 | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Wingate Campground | 435-259-2614 | same | yes | 56 | 21 | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Yurts | 435-259-2614 | same | yes | 9 | yes | yes |
GLEN CANYON NRA (nps.gov/glca)
| Campground | Phone / info | Location | Toilets | Showers | Max ft. length | Sites | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Picnic tables |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halls Crossing Marina | 435-684-7009 | 95 miles southwest of Blanding on Hwy 276 | yes | yes | 64 | yes | yes | yes | yes | |
| Hite Marina | 435-233-6822 ticaboo.com, ADA sites | 80 miles northwest of Blanding on Hwy 95 | yes | yes | 80 | 76 | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Goosenecks State Park | 435-678-2238 (primitive camping) | 8 miles west on UT-316 at junction with UT-261, 4 miles north of Mexican Hat | yes | 7 | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Hovenweep Campground | 970-562-4282 | 20 miles north of Aneth off UT-262 | yes | 36 | 31 | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Natural Bridges Campground | 435-692-1234 | 29 miles west of Blanding on UT-95 | yes | 26 | 13 | yes | yes | yes |
BLM (blm.gov/ut)
| Campground | Phone / info | Location | Toilets | Showers | Max ft. length | Sites | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Picnic tables |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comb Wash | 435-587-1500 | 12 miles west of Blanding on UT-95 - primitive camping | yes | 20 | yes | yes | ||||
| Creek Pasture | 435-587-1500 | Hwy 191 14 miles north of Monticello then 30 miles west on 211 | yes | 32 | yes | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Hamburger Rock | 435-587-1500, blm.gov/utah/moab | Hwy 191 14 miles north of Monticello, then 30 miles west on 211, then 1 mile on 122 - primitive camping | yes | 60 | 10 | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Hatch Point | 435-259-2100 | Canyon Rims 20 miles north of Monticello & 25 miles west off US-191 on CR 133 - primitive camping | yes | 30 | 10 | yes | yes | yes | ||
| Sand Island | 435-587-1500 | 3 miles west of Bluff on US-191 | yes | 50 | 25 | yes | yes | yes | yes | |
| Super Bowl | 435-587-1500 | Hwy 191 14 miles north of Monticello then 30 miles west on 211 | yes | 37 | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Windwhistle | 435-259-2100 | Canyon Rims 20 miles N Monticello & 6 miles west off US-191 on CR 133 - primitive camping | yes | 30 | 15 | yes | yes | yes | yes |
USFS Manti-La Sal (res 435-587-2041, fs.fed.us/r4/mantilasal)
| Campground | Phone / info | Location | Toilets | Showers | Max ft. length | Sites | Group sites | Pets allowed | Open all year | Picnic tables |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckboard | 6.5 miles west of Monticello on 200 South (at the Welcome Center) | yes | 30 | 8 | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Dalton Springs | 5 miles west of Monticello on 200 South | yes | 30 | 16 | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Devil's Canyon | 9.5 miles northeast of Blanding on Hwy 191 (as printed) | yes | 60 | 42 | yes | yes | yes | |||
| Nizhoni | 12 miles north of Blanding on Blue Mountain Road | yes | 35 | 19 | yes | yes | yes |
Dining
Blanding
| Restaurant | Address | Phone | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| A&W Restaurant | 12 West Center St. (Hwy 191) | 435-678-3900 | Fast food |
| Blue Mountain Bistro | 802 S 200 W | 435-678-4835 | Cafeteria |
| Creamy Delights | 26 Main St. | 435-485-0635 | Ice cream, baked goods, lunch specials |
| Destination Awake Coffee & Bakery | 87 S Main St. | 435-485-8102 | Coffee, baked goods |
| Dirty Pop | 174 E Center St | Mixed sodas & cookies | |
| Homestead Steakhouse | 121 East Center St. (Hwy 191) | 435-678-3456 | Restaurant |
| Hunt’s Trading | 146 East Center St. (Hwy 191) | 435-678-2739 | Coffees & teas |
| Patio Diner | 95 North Grayson Pkwy. (Hwy 191) | 435-678-2177 | Fast food |
| Subway Sandwich | 82 South Main St. #2 (Hwy 191) | 435-678-3616 | Fast food |
| USU Sidewalk Grill | 576 W 200 S | 435-678-2201 | Cafeteria |
| Yak’s Center Street Cafe | 140 North Grayson Pkwy (Hwy 191) | 435-678-2555 | Restaurant |
Bluff
| Restaurant | Address | Phone | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shack Cafe | 2625 S Hwy 191 | 435-672-2319 | Cafe with outdoor seating, espresso |
| Comb Ridge Eat & Drink | 409 Main St. Hwy 191 | 435-487-8441 | Coffee & bistro, beer/wine |
| Cow Canyon Coffee | 163 Mission Road | 435-749-1036 | Coffee, tea, baked goods |
| Duke’s | 701 West Main St. | 435-672-2303 | Restaurant |
| Canyon Smokehouse | 281 E Main St. | 435-269-0400 | Restaurant, BBQ, beer & wine |
| Picadilly Pizza (at K&C Gas/Convenience) | West Highway 191 | 435-672-2221 | Fast food |
| Twin Rocks Cafe | 913 East Navajo Twins Dr. | 435-672-2341 | Restaurant, regional food & wine (EV charging) |
Mexican Hat
| Restaurant | Address | Phone | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mexican Hat Shell | Highway 163 | 435-683-2220 | Packaged & fast food |
| Olde Bridge Grill | Highway 163 @ the Historic Bridge | 435-683-2220 | Restaurant |
| Swingin' Steak | Highway 163 | 435-683-2222 | Restaurant, cook-outs, beer & wine |
Montezuma Creek
| Restaurant | Address | Phone | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Pit Stop | 7MF8+4M Montezuma Creek | 505-210-2497 | Food truck, burgers, sandwiches |
Monticello
| Restaurant | Address | Phone | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7-11 | 17 North Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-587-2555 | Fast food |
| Doug's BBQ | 496 North Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-210-4441 | BBQ, catering, to-go, beer, wine & spirits |
| Gustavo’s | 216 East Center (Hwy 491) | 435-298-8270 | Mexican, beer & wine |
| High Desert Cafe | 516 North Main St. (Hwy 191) | 435-210-4441 | Coffee bar, cafe, restaurant |
| Ja-Roen Thai | 380 S Main | 435-587-4000 | Thai, sushi, boba |
| Maverik Country Store | 265 East Center (Hwy 491) | 435-587-3238 | Fast food |
| Pin Up Girl Cafe & Boutique | 232 N Main St | 435-587-2251 | Coffee, baked goods |
| Shake Shack | 364 N Main St. | 435-459-2394 | Fast food, seasonal (summer) |
| Subway | 481 North Main St. | 435-587-2757 | Fast food |
| Thatzza Pizza | 201 S Main | 435-587-9111 | Restaurant, delivery |
| The Over Bite | 133 E Center (Hwy 491) | 801-209-9611 | Breakfast, sandwiches, smoothies, coffee |
| Wagon Wheel Pizza | 154 S Main | 435-587-2766 | Restaurant |
Monument Valley
| Restaurant | Address | Phone | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stagecoach Restaurant | Gouldings Lodge, County Road 421 | 435-727-3231 | Restaurant, cook-outs |
| Gouldings C-Store & Deli | County Road 421 | 435-727-3231 | Fast food, espresso & coffee |
| Vendor Village | Intersection of County Rd 421 and US Hwy 163 | A variety of food vendors |
North County
| Restaurant | Address | Phone | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studebaker Station | La Sal Junction (Hwy 191 & Hwy 46) | 719-205-3517 | Food truck, burgers, sandwiches |
Guides and outfitters
Blanding
| Guide or outfitter | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Sunrise Outfitting | 976 S Main, sunriseoutfitting-scenicadventures.com, 435-459-9676 | 4WD, archaeological, ATV/UTV, backpacking, education, hunting/fishing, hiking, photography, scenic, wildlife |
Bluff
| Guide or outfitter | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| San Juan Shuttles | 435-672-2455, valssanjuanshuttles.com | shuttles |
| Wild Expeditions | 101 Main Street, riversandruins.com, 435-672-2244 | 4WD, archaeological, ATV/UTV, backpacking, canyoneering/climbing, hiking, photography, rafting, rentals, shuttles |
Lake Powell
| Guide or outfitter | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Powell Resorts | lakepowell.com, 800-528-6154, 435-684-7000, 435-684-2278 | boating |
Monticello
| Guide or outfitter | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Mountain Hunts | bluemountainhunts.com, 435-587-2113 | guided hunting |
| Canyon Country Discovery Center | 1117 N Main St, ccdiscovery.org, 800-525-4456, 435-587-2156 | education, hiking, rafting |
| D's Adventures | 25 Pearson Rd, Eastland, 435-260-9930 | horseback |
| Roam Industry | roamutah.com, 435-590-2741 | mt biking/bike packing, camping, canyoneering/climbing, rentals, shuttles |
Montezuma Creek
| Guide or outfitter | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Wayves River and Hiking Adventures | 505-239-8505, tourancientwayves.com | archaeological, backpacking, hiking, photography, rafting, scenic |
North Country
| Guide or outfitter | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Area BFE | areabfe.com, 719-647-2297, 719-821-3818 | ATV/UTV, rentals |
| Bighorn Mountain Biking | bighornmountainbiking.com, 435-200-5871 | mt biking, rentals |
| Canyon Country UTV Rentals | canyoncountryutvrentals.com, 435-260-6696 | rentals |
| Elk Mountain Ranch | elkmountainranchriding.com, 970-260-4503 | horseback |
| Redd Ranches Guides | rrgohunting.com, 435-459-4930 | guided hunting |
| Mountain Joe's Trail Rides | Wolf Springs Ranch, Old La Sal, mountainjoestrailrides.com, 435-669-6585 | horseback |
| GS3 Outfitters | 1801 Rollover Ranch Rd, La Sal, gs3outfitters.com, 435-260-9569 | 4WD |
| Slick Rock Off Road Rentals & Auto Spa | slickrockoffroadrental.com, 435-210-4359 | rentals |
| Snowmobile Moab | snowmobilemoab.com, 970-390-1841 | snowmobile |
Monument Valley
| Guide or outfitter | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Bennett Tours | members.tripod.com/bennett_tour, 435-727-3283 | 4WD, hiking, Monument Valley |
| Blackwater Tours | blackwatertours.com, 435-727-3312 | 4WD, Monument Valley |
| Daniel's Guided Tours | danielsguidedtours.com, 435-727-3227 | Monument Valley, Mystery Valley |
| Explore Monument Valley Tours | exploremonumentvalley.com, 928-429-1959 | 4WD, Monument Valley, Mystery Valley, photography, scenic |
| Gouldings Lodge & Tours | 1000 Gouldings Trading Post Rd, gouldings.com, 435-727-3231 | Monument Valley, Mystery Valley |
| Homeland Tours | 800-388-5613, 435-727-3466 | horseback, Monument Valley, scenic |
| Majestic Monument Valley Touring Company | majesticmonumentvalley.com, 435-727-3432 | Monument Valley, Mystery Valley |
| Monument Valley Tribal Tours | monumentvalleytribaltours.com, 928-814-7114 | 4WD, Monument Valley, Mystery Valley, photography, scenic |
| Moonlight Springs Tours | thenavajoway.com | ATV/UTV, Monument Valley, traditional Navajo meal |
| Monument Valley Tours | monumentvalleytours.net, 435-727-3313, 435-727-3266 | 4WD, hiking, Monument Valley |
| Navajo Country Trailrides | 435-727-3390 | horseback, Monument Valley |
| Sacred Monument Tours | monumentvalley.net, 435-459-2501, 435-727-3218 | 4WD, horseback, Monument Valley |
| Sandstone Tours | sandstonetours.com, 435-200-5450 | 4WD, Monument Valley, Mystery Valley |
| Simpson's Trailhandler Tours | emonumentvalley.com, 435-727-3362 | 4WD, hiking, Monument Valley, traditional Navajo meal |
Our communities
La Sal
Elevation: 7,125 ft (2,134 m). Population: 300.
La Sal is an unrivaled outdoor playground offering recreation opportunities throughout the year. Dirt roads lead to some of the best camping in Utah. The name of the village is attributed to Spanish traders as early as 1750 who referred to the snow-capped peaks. During the winter cross-country ski and snow-shoe trails lead to adventure. In the summer the proximity of the desert and mountain offers unlimited hiking, biking, and ATVing opportunities. Popular day tours include Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyon Rims Recreation Area, Manti-La Sal National Forest, and Looking Glass Arch. Lodging, dining, and tours are available.
Monticello
Elevation: 7,069 ft (2,155 m). Population: 2,000.
Sheltered by the Abajo Mountains, Monticello is a cool and peaceful summer get-away. The Hideout Golf Course offers visitors a pleasant 18 hole links-style course with no crowds and perfect summer temperatures for an enjoyable round. A variety of tournaments are held throughout the summer. Popular day tours include Canyonlands National Park, Canyon Rims Recreation Area, Manti-La Sal National Forest, Needles, and Anticline Overlooks. Lowry Ruin, the Anasazi Heritage Center, and Mesa Verde National Park are all nearby in Colorado. Monticello is a center for hunting in the fall. Full services. MonticelloUtah.org
Blanding
Elevation: 6,000 ft (1,830 m). Population: 3,600.
Blanding, ‘Base Camp to Adventure,’ is the gateway to the Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway which encompasses Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments, Goosenecks State Park, and Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Edge of the Cedars State Park & Museum offers ancient Puebloan artifacts and an accessible ruin. Look into the distant past as you move among life-size realistic dinosaur models, fossils, and skeletons at the Dinosaur Museum. Popular day tours include the Trail of the Ancients, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments, Grand Gulch Primitive Area, Goosenecks State Park, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area/Lake Powell. Full services. visitblanding.com
Bluff
Elevation: 4,380 ft (1,335 m). Population: 300.
The modern community of Bluff was founded by Mormon settlers who pioneered the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail. The original fort, Bluff Fort Historic Site, is still partially standing, and Victorian-era homes, some on the National Register of Historic Places, provide a sense of life at the turn of the 20th century. Sand Island, with its many figures of Kokopelli, the humped back flute player of ancient southwest mythology is easily accessible. Bluff is the site of the annual Bluff International Balloon Festival in January, Bluff Arts Festival in October, and Annual Winter Solstice Celebration in December. Popular day tours include Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Canyonlands and Mesa Verde National Parks, Grand Gulch Primitive Area, and the San Juan River. Full services available. bluffutah.org
Mexican Hat
Elevation: 4,244 ft (1,294 m). Population: 110.
Named for the inverted stone sombrero northeast of the town, Mexican Hat boasts a colorful history. Early in the last century, over 1,000 people looked for gold, oil, and uranium here. Today, the town is a popular starting and ending point for adventures on the San Juan River. Popular day tours include Grand Gulch Primitive Area, John’s and Slickhorn Canyons, Goosenecks State Park, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges, Hovenweep, Navajo National Monuments, and Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Full services available.
Monument Valley
Elevation: 5,200 ft (1,585 m).
The spectacular scenery of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is captivating year-round. Available services include a visitor center, campground, and restaurant in addition to guided tours. Gouldings Lodge, on the opposite side of the valley, provides lodging, dining, tours with Navajo guides, a museum, a gift shop featuring hand-crafted Native American items, a fully stocked grocery store, and a campground. A permit from Navajo Parks & Recreation or traveling with a Navajo guide is necessary to explore the depths of the valley. Popular self-guided day tours include Valley of the Gods, Goosenecks State Park, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments. navajonationparks.org or gouldings.com
Other communities with no visitor services: Aneth, Eastland, Ucolo, Montezuma Creek, Navajo Mountain, and White Mesa.
Airport information
Hiking is one thing, but seeing Utah’s Canyon Country from the air is another! Many airports all over the county are open for public use. Airports in the area are smaller facilities that don’t support commercial flights. Contact the nearest airport for further information.
| Airport | Access | Elevation | Runway | Details | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monticello Airport | Open to the public | 6,966 ft (2,123 m) | 6,000 ft (1,828 m), paved and lighted | Three miles north of Monticello City. Courtesy vehicle and pilot’s lounge. Jet A and 110LL Avgas fuel seven days a week. | 435-587-2271 |
| Blanding Municipal Airport | Open to the public | 5,868 ft (1,789 m) | 5,781 ft (1,762 m), paved and lighted | One mile south of Blanding City. Instrument and visual approach equipment and a Unicom Advisory Station. Jet fuel and standard aviation fuel seven days a week. | 435-678-2791 |
| Bluff Airport (66V) | Open to the public | 4,476 ft (1,364 m) | 3,000 ft (914 m), asphalt | Four miles southwest of Bluff. Tie down services available. | 435-587-3223 |
| Cal Black Airport at Halls Crossing | Open to the public | 4,394 ft (1,339 m) | 5,700 ft (1,737 m), asphalt | On UT-276, ten miles east of Halls Crossing Marina on Lake Powell, with a shuttle to the marina. Terminal staffed 24 hours a day; twenty tie downs, no hangar. Lo Lead, Jet A and automobile fuels. | 435-419-0867 |
| Monument Valley Airport | Private | 5,192 ft (1,583 m) | 4,000 ft (1,219 m), asphalt | Free use if staying at or using the Goulding’s Lodge, campground or store. Contact the airport for permission to land before your trip. | 435-727-3225 |
Backcountry airstrips: Various backcountry airstrips are scattered throughout the region including Fry Canyon UT-74, Dark Canyon and Needles. Conditions of backcountry airstrips are dependent on weather and the environment. Make appropriate preparations and use caution when using these airstrips in your travel plans.
Getting around in Canyon Country
Most areas and sites are on paved roads, some accessed via graded gravel, a few require 4 wheel drive. Most are within a short drive from our communities.
Those areas accessed by 4 wheel drive may require long days or overnight stays. Prepare for a wilderness experience. It is not recommended that you travel to remote sites alone or with only one vehicle. When wet, some roads are impassable even for a 4 wheel drive vehicle. Check weather and road conditions prior to a trip into the backcountry.
- National air service: Salt Lake City UT, Phoenix AZ, Las Vegas NV, Albuquerque NM, and Denver CO.
- Regional air service: Grand Junction, Durango, and Cortez CO, Farmington NM, Flagstaff AZ, and Moab UT.
- Auto rental: Available at all international and national airports, at Grand Junction and Durango CO, Moab UT, Farmington NM, and Flagstaff AZ.
- Shuttle service: Salt Lake Express (saltlakeexpress.com), twice daily northbound and southbound shuttle service between Blanding and SLC.
- Amtrak rail service: Salt Lake City and Green River UT, Albuquerque and Grants NM, Las Vegas NV, and Denver and Grand Junction CO.
Visitor information
Visitor information is available from the national, state, and tribal parks. Visitor centers in Blanding, Bluff, and Monticello are stocked with brochures, maps, books, videos, and mementos. The centers are staffed by knowledgeable local residents who will assist with information to make your visit exceptional.
| Visitor center or agency | Address | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blanding Visitor Center (EV charging) | 12 North Grayson Parkway (US Highway 191), Blanding | 435-678-3662 | visitblanding.com |
| Bluff Fort (seasonal) | 55 North 6th East, Bluff | 435-672-9995 | hirf.org |
| Monument Valley Visitor Center | US Highway 163, Monument Valley Junction | 435-727-5871 | navajonationparks.org |
| Monticello Welcome Center (EV charging) | 216 S. Main St (US Highway 191), Monticello | 435-587-2271 | monticelloutah.org |
| Edge of the Cedars State Park & Museum | 660 West 400 North, Blanding | 435-678-2238 | stateparks.utah.gov/parks/edge-of-the-cedars |
| Goosenecks State Park | Highway 316 near the junction with US Hwy 162 (as printed), north of Mexican Hat | stateparks.utah.gov/parks/goosenecks | |
| Manti La Sal National Forest (USFS) | 397 North Main St, Monticello | 435-587-2041 | fs.usda.gov/mantilasal |
| Bureau of Land Management (BLM) | 365 N. Main St (US Highway 191), Monticello | 435-587-1500 | blm.gov/office/monticello-field-office |
| Canyonlands National Park | 435-719-2313 | nps.gov/cany | |
| Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (up-lake information) | 435-684-7420 | nps.gov/glca | |
| Hovenweep National Monument | 970-562-4282 | nps.gov/hove | |
| Natural Bridges National Monument | 435-692-1234 | nps.gov/nabr | |
| Rainbow Bridge National Monument | 928-608-6200 | nps.gov/rabr | |
| Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park | 435-727-5870 | navajonationparks.org | |
| Four Corners Monument | 928-871-6647 | navajonationparks.org | |
| Bears Ears Education Center | 567 W Main St, Bluff | 435-414-0343 | bearsearsmonument.org |
| Monticello Coworking Space | 80 N Main St, Monticello |
Maps: sanjuanatvsafari.com (ATV/OHV), spear4all.com (ATV/OHV), cnha.org (hiking, biking and ATV/OHV). Topographic maps are available at the visitor centers.
Safety
Your safety is of utmost importance to us! Remember, this is a desert environment, even at higher elevations. Carry water, at least one gallon per person per day. And don’t forget your pets and vehicles; they need water, too. Wear appropriate and protective clothing, especially a hat. Remember the day will warm up in the afternoon following a cool morning. Carry and use sunscreen. Plan your trip well. Stay with your group. If traveling alone, leave information as to your destination and expected date and time of return with someone, even if it is at the local visitor center.
#RecreateResponsibly in Utah’s Canyon Country
Utah’s Canyon Country is home to many wonderful destinations and experiences. From wide-open spaces to historic neighborhoods, please remember to #RecreateResponsibly. When you visit, follow Leave No Trace and Visit With Respect principles so everyone can have the opportunity for years to come to visit these amazing sights.
- Plan ahead and prepare for your adventures
- Stay on designated trails
- Leave artifacts where you spot them
- Do not enter any archaeological structures
- Do not eat near sites and pack out what you pack in
- Properly dispose of human and pet waste
- Leave historic sites and rock art untouched
- Respect and be aware of wildlife
- Keep dogs on leashes at all times
Disclaimer (from the guide): The information in this publication is presented in good faith and on the basis that San Juan County, nor their agents or employees, are liable (whether by reason of error, omission, negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any statement, information or advice given in this publication.
Produced by San Juan County Visitor Services, 117 South Main Street, P.O. Box 490, Monticello, UT 84535. Assistance with itineraries: 800-574-4386 (USA and Canada), 435-587-3235, or info@utahscanyoncountry.com.