MANCOS MESA WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

This WSA is in the Canyonlands Section of the Colorado Plateau Physiographic Province. Mancos mesa is a rugged, westward-sloping mesa bounded by canyons as much as 600 feet deep. Three winding canyons from 250 to 800 feet deep cut across the mesa. Wind-blown sand covers large parts of the mesa and has accumulated in large deposits in portions of the canyons. Blackbrush is the most common vegetation. The Mancos Mesa WSA contains archaeological, geological, wildlife, and scenic values. The peregrine falcon and 8 animal species that are considered sensitive may occur in the WSA. Desert bighorn sheep, which is a wildlife species associated with wilderness is occasionally sighted in the WSA.

Visitation Information

Located in western San Juan County, about 50 miles west of Blanding, UT. Mancos Mesa can be accessed by driving southwest of Natural Bridges National Monument on Highway 276, then using roads B259 or B2221 to approach the WSA boundary.

Visitor Advisory

Visitors should come prepared for backcountry conditions and adequately prepare for their trip. Knowledge of weather, terrain, and physical conditions can help ensure safety.