About Bears Ears National Monument - Indian Creek SRMA
The Indian Creek Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) of Bears Ears National Monument has gained international recognition for its extraordinary natural beauty and numerous recreational opportunities. The Indian Creek canyon opens to a broad valley rimmed by Wingate Sandstone cliffs known for world-class rock climbing. Prominent geologic features include Lavender Mesa, Bridger Jack Mesa, and North and South Six Shooter Peaks. The Chinle Formation contains abundant paleontological resources, including both vertebrate and invertebrate fossils. This spectacular setting and rich archeological resources provide visitors with an abundance of recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, cultural resource viewing, scenic photography, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) touring on designated routes.
How to Get There
To get to the Indian Creek SRMA of Bears Ears National Monument, take U.S. Route 191 south from Moab, Utah, for 40 miles (60 km) or drive 14 miles (22 km) north of Monticello, Utah. Turn onto UT SR-211 and drive 9.5 miles to the boundary. The road winds through the SRMA for 21 miles, where it then meets the border of the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. UT SR-211 is the only paved road leading in and out of the area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Bears Ears National Monument - Indian Creek SRMA
Heading to Bears Ears National Monument - Indian Creek SRMA? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Bears Ears National Monument - Indian Creek SRMA?
No central reservation system listed for Bears Ears National Monument - Indian Creek SRMA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/10073563) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Bears Ears National Monument - Indian Creek SRMA?
To get to the Indian Creek SRMA of Bears Ears National Monument, take U.S. Route 191 south from Moab, Utah, for 40 miles (60 km) or drive 14 miles (22 km) north of Monticello, Utah. Turn onto UT SR-211 and drive 9.5 miles to the boundary. The road winds through the SRMA for 21 miles, where it then meets the border of the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. UT SR-211 is the only paved ro…
How do I contact Bears Ears National Monument - Indian Creek SRMA?
You can reach the park at phone: (435) 587-1500 or email: blm_ut_mt_mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
