Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Bears Ears National Monument, located in southeastern Utah, spans 1.35 million acres and holds a significant place in cultural and natural history. This monument was designated in 2016 to preserve thousands of archaeological and cultural sites sacred to Native American tribes. The monumental landscape is dotted with ancient dwellings and petroglyphs, standing as a testament to earlier civilizations. The region's topography varies from deep red-rock canyons to sprawling mesas, featuring flora such as piñon pines and juniper that provide habitats for diverse wildlife. Bears Ears is defined by two iconic buttes that resemble the ears of a bear, offering unique backdrops for recreation. Visitors can hike trails that pass by dramatic cliffs and explore canyons that offer solitude and awe-inspiring scenery. Whether it's discovering ancient artifacts or enjoying thrilling outdoor adventures such as mountain biking and climbing, Bears Ears delivers a rich experience. The monument's remote beauty appeals to both scholarly interest and the outdoor aficionado seeking rugged terrain and scenic wilderness.
