BLM updates travel management plan for Henry Mountains and Fremont Gorge

RICHFIELD, Utah - Today, the Bureau of Land Management announced the finalized Travel Management Plan for the Henry Mountains and Fremont Gorge area. The selected travel network balances the needs of public access with environmental and cultural resource protection. This decision is the culmination of years of evaluation and public engagement, and complies with applicable laws, regulations, and policies.

The selected alternative, Alternative E, contains 1,670 miles of routes open/limited to motorized travel, including off-highway vehicles, trucks, and sport utility vehicles. Approximately 289 miles of routes previously open or limited will be closed to motorized travel to protect areas with high cultural significance, sensitive wildlife habitats, and fragile ecosystems.

While Alternative E designates 612 miles of routes as closed to motorized vehicles, the majority of these routes were designated as closed under the previous plan. These closures apply exclusively to public motorized travel; nonmotorized activities such as hiking or horseback riding, as well as authorized motorized access for rights-of-way holders, continue to be allowed.

Many major roads will remain open, including Angel Point Road, Simplot Dugway, Cowboy Cave Road, Burr Point, and Poison Springs Road, to ensure access to critical areas and recreational sites. Some routes in Wilderness Study Areas will remain open seasonally for big game hunting to allow access for primitive recreation while protecting wilderness character.

Feedback from the public and stakeholders, including 3,750 comments received during the open comment period, helped inform the decision-making process. The contributions of community members, local organizations, and other stakeholders were instrumental in ensuring that this plan reflects diverse perspectives and priorities.

For more information, please visit the BLM National NEPA Register or contact the Richfield Field Office at 435-865-3000.