Bears Ears National Monument

Bears Ears National Monument in southeastern Utah is a vast, rugged landscape of red-rock canyons, high desert mesas, and ancient cultural sites. Designated in 2016 and reduced in size in 2017, it remains a place of profound beauty and deep spiritual significance to Native American tribes. This is a destination for those seeking solitude, archaeological wonders, and the raw, untamed spirit of the Colorado Plateau.

Highlights & What to See

• Valley of the Gods: A stunning, less-crowded alternative to Monument Valley, with towering sandstone monoliths and a scenic 17-mile dirt road perfect for a self-drive adventure.
• Mule Canyon Ruins: Well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and a great kiva, accessible via a short hike—look for the iconic ‘House on Fire’ ruin.
• Comb Ridge: A dramatic 90-mile-long monocline offering hiking, petroglyph panels (like Procession Panel), and panoramic views of the Bears Ears buttes.
• Grand Gulch Primitive Area: A premier backpacking destination with deep canyons, natural arches, and abundant Ancestral Puebloan sites, including rock art and granaries.
• Bears Ears Buttes: The twin buttes that give the monument its name; they are sacred to many tribes and offer challenging hikes with sweeping views.
• Natural Bridges National Monument: Within the original monument boundaries, this area features three massive natural bridges and a scenic drive—a great stop for stargazing (it’s an International Dark Sky Park).

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least two full days to explore the monument’s highlights. With three days, you can add a backpacking trip into Grand Gulch or a deeper exploration of Comb Ridge. The monument is remote, so factor in driving times on unpaved roads. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures; summer is very hot and winter can bring snow at higher elevations.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Moab – Gateway to Arches and Canyonlands national parks, about 2 hours north, ideal for a broader Utah road trip.
• Monticello – A small town with lodging and supplies, just east of the monument; also a base for visiting the Abajo Mountains.
• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park – Iconic red-sandstone buttes and a rich Navajo cultural experience, about 1.5 hours south.
• Lake Powell & Glen Canyon National Recreation Area – Water-based recreation and slot canyons like Antelope Canyon, about 2 hours southwest.
• Hovenweep National Monument – Ancestral Puebloan tower ruins in a remote setting, about 1.5 hours southeast.

Please check official sources for current details.