- Region
- UT, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm permit requirements and current re…
- Managed by
- Bureau of Land Management
Plan with verified data
Blackridge Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Blackridge Wilderness
How to get there
Blackridge Wilderness lies adjacent to the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park in Utah. Confirm a legal approach and starting point with the Bureau of Land Management before traveling; no road approach or trailhead is established here. The inventory coordinate 37.348172, -113.218025 is an interior map point, not a trailhead, campsite, or access point. The listed BLM outdoor recreation planning contact is 435-688-3210.
- Black Ridge
A major landscape feature within the wilderness, not a confirmed access point. Ask the Bureau of Land Management about a legal approach before using it as a trip objective.
- LaVerkin Creek
A long stretch of this creek is protected within Blackridge Wilderness. No trailhead or entry route is established here; confirm access with the Bureau of Land Management rather than assuming the creek provides an approach.
Sources: blm.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory · Wikipedia. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
UT, USA · United States
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
- Surfing
- Hiking
A rugged neighbor to Zion
Blackridge Wilderness protects 13,015 acres of southwestern Utah beside the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, with Zion Wilderness bordering it to the northeast. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, it became part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 2009. Its terrain belongs to the same connected watershed and wildlife habitat as Zion, but there are no maintained trails within the wilderness. Red Navajo Sandstone canyons cut as much as 1,000 feet deep beneath caps of the Carmel Formation. Black Ridge, formed by the Hurricane Fault, is a defining feature, with views toward Zion National Park, Canaan Mountain, and the Pine Valley Mountains. This is a destination for self-directed hiking and backpacking rather than a signed trail itinerary; navigation and realistic terrain assessment should shape any plan.
Elevation, habitat, and wildlife
Elevations range from approximately 3,650 to 6,550 feet, bringing substantial changes in vegetation across a relatively compact wilderness. Below 4,500 feet, blackbrush, salt bush, and creosote bush occupy the drier American Desert zone. Middle elevations support shrub woodlands with oak, pinyon-juniper, yucca, serviceberry, and mountain mahogany. Higher ground and north- and east-facing slopes hold ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, white fir, aspen, and Rocky Mountain juniper. Streambeds support riparian habitat, while seeps and drips sustain hanging gardens on canyon walls, including maidenhair fern, shooting star, and scarlet monkeyflower. These small wet habitats deserve particular care: avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing seeps. Deer and mountain lions inhabit the area, and cliff walls provide nesting habitat for raptors, including peregrine falcons and golden eagles. Observe wildlife from a distance and give nesting birds space.
Planning for heat, cold, and unmaintained terrain
Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, and even higher elevations can climb above 90°F. Day and night temperatures can differ by more than 30°F. Winter is cold and often wet, with daytime highs of 50°F to 60°F and nights well below freezing. Match clothing, water supplies, and trip length to those conditions rather than assuming elevation will provide relief from heat. Streambeds and hanging gardens should not be treated as a guarantee of dependable drinking water. With no maintained trails and deep, sheer-walled canyons, carry navigation tools and avoid committing to terrain without a safe return option. Confirm access, current regulations, and any permit requirements with the Bureau of Land Management before departure. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles, are generally prohibited in designated wilderness. Travel and camp on durable surfaces, pack out waste, and leave natural features undisturbed.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Blackridge Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 37.3482, -113.2180
- Latitude (DMS)
- 37° 20′ 53.4″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 113° 13′ 4.9″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Blackridge Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
Blackridge Wilderness is a logical extension of the Zion Wilderness along with Red Butte, LaVerkin Creek, Taylor Creek, and Beartrap Canyon Wildernesses. It is part of the integrated watershed, wildlife...
Key takeaways
- Region: UT, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 37.348, -113.218
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Blackridge Wilderness
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
Animals around Blackridge Wilderness
A rugged neighbor to Zion
Blackridge Wilderness protects 13,015 acres of southwestern Utah beside the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, with Zion Wilderness bordering it to the northeast. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, it became part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 2009. Its terrain belongs to the same connected watershed and wildlife habitat as Zion, but there are no maintained trails within the wilderness. Red Navajo Sandstone canyons cut as much as 1,000 feet deep beneath caps of the Carmel Formation. Black Ridge, formed by the Hurricane Fault, is a defining feature, with views toward Zion National Park, Canaan Mountain, and the Pine Valley Mountains. This is a destination for self-directed hiking and backpacking rather than a signed trail itinerary; navigation and realistic terrain assessment should shape any plan.
Elevation, habitat, and wildlife
Elevations range from approximately 3,650 to 6,550 feet, bringing substantial changes in vegetation across a relatively compact wilderness. Below 4,500 feet, blackbrush, salt bush, and creosote bush occupy the drier American Desert zone. Middle elevations support shrub woodlands with oak, pinyon-juniper, yucca, serviceberry, and mountain mahogany. Higher ground and north- and east-facing slopes hold ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, white fir, aspen, and Rocky Mountain juniper. Streambeds support riparian habitat, while seeps and drips sustain hanging gardens on canyon walls, including maidenhair fern, shooting star, and scarlet monkeyflower. These small wet habitats deserve particular care: avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing seeps. Deer and mountain lions inhabit the area, and cliff walls provide nesting habitat for raptors, including peregrine falcons and golden eagles. Observe wildlife from a distance and give nesting birds space.
Planning for heat, cold, and unmaintained terrain
Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, and even higher elevations can climb above 90°F. Day and night temperatures can differ by more than 30°F. Winter is cold and often wet, with daytime highs of 50°F to 60°F and nights well below freezing. Match clothing, water supplies, and trip length to those conditions rather than assuming elevation will provide relief from heat. Streambeds and hanging gardens should not be treated as a guarantee of dependable drinking water. With no maintained trails and deep, sheer-walled canyons, carry navigation tools and avoid committing to terrain without a safe return option. Confirm access, current regulations, and any permit requirements with the Bureau of Land Management before departure. Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles, are generally prohibited in designated wilderness. Travel and camp on durable surfaces, pack out waste, and leave natural features undisturbed.
Route options
- Black Ridge hiking objective
A planning objective rather than an established route. Black Ridge offers views toward Zion National Park, Canaan Mountain, and the Pine Valley Mountains. There are no maintained wilderness trails, and a feasible approach must be confirmed before attempting a hike.
- LaVerkin Creek exploration objective
A landscape objective for further trip planning, not a documented creek walk or backpacking itinerary. The wilderness protects a long section of LaVerkin Creek, but no continuous travel line, crossing information, or entry point is established here. Do not assume the corridor is passable.
Sample itineraries
- Blackridge day exploration · 1 day
Plan a conservative out-and-back hike after confirming legal access with BLM. There are no maintained trails. Choose terrain within the group's navigation skills, leave time to retrace the approach, and avoid committing to steep canyon descents.
- Blackridge overnight backpack · 2 days
For experienced off-trail backpackers, plan an overnight focused on Blackridge's sandstone terrain and varied vegetation. Confirm access and camping regulations with BLM first. Select durable camping surfaces, carry water unless reliable supplies are confirmed, and keep the route flexible around cliffs.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; check forecasts before departure
Plan for differing conditions across elevations of approximately 3,650 to 6,550 feet. Lower desert terrain and wooded upper slopes warrant different clothing and water plans; do not assume conditions at the approach represent the entire outing.
Summer
Summer
Temperatures often exceed 100°F, with readings above 90°F even at higher elevations. Day and night temperatures can differ by more than 30°F. Keep objectives conservative and carry ample water and sun protection.
Fall
Fall; check forecasts before departure
Use current forecasts rather than assuming mild hiking weather. Elevation changes and exposed terrain call for layers, sun protection, and a water plan. Allow extra time for navigation in this unmaintained wilderness.
Winter
Winter
Winters are cold and often wet. Daytime highs range from 50°F to 60°F, while nights can fall well below freezing. Carry insulation and weather protection; overnight plans require gear suited to freezing conditions.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; check forecasts before departure | Plan for differing conditions across elevations of approximately 3,650 to 6,550 feet. Lower desert terrain and wooded upper slopes warrant different clothing and water plans; do not assume conditions at the approach represent the entire outing. |
| Summer | Summer | Temperatures often exceed 100°F, with readings above 90°F even at higher elevations. Day and night temperatures can differ by more than 30°F. Keep objectives conservative and carry ample water and sun protection. |
| Fall | Fall; check forecasts before departure | Use current forecasts rather than assuming mild hiking weather. Elevation changes and exposed terrain call for layers, sun protection, and a water plan. Allow extra time for navigation in this unmaintained wilderness. |
| Winter | Winter | Winters are cold and often wet. Daytime highs range from 50°F to 60°F, while nights can fall well below freezing. Carry insulation and weather protection; overnight plans require gear suited to freezing conditions. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm permit requirements and current regulations with BLM before visiting Blackridge Wilderness; call the listed outdoor recreation planner at 435-688-3210.
Official source: Blackridge Wilderness - Utah - Bureau of Land Management · Verified October 19, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Canyons have sheer walls reaching up to 1,000 feet deep. Avoid exposed edges and do not assume a drainage offers a passable route.
- There are no maintained trails. Rugged terrain demands off-trail navigation skills and enough time to reverse course.
- Summer heat often exceeds 100°F, including temperatures above 90°F at higher elevations. Heat exposure and dehydration require conservative planning.
- Winter can be wet, with nighttime temperatures well below freezing. Inadequate insulation or wet clothing can become dangerous.
- Mountain lions occur throughout the area and prey on deer. Stay alert, keep companions together, and give wildlife space.
What to pack for Blackridge Wilderness
- Topographic map showing wilderness boundaries
- Compass and offline navigation
- Headlamp and spare power
- First-aid kit and emergency shelter
- Water capacity matched to heat and trip length
- Water treatment if collecting water
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen and sun-protective clothing
- Footwear suitable for rough off-trail travel
- Insulating layers
- Rain protection
- Sleep system suited to forecast nighttime temperatures for overnight trips
- Waste bags
- Appropriate human-waste disposal supplies
- Compact camping gear for durable surfaces
- Binoculars for observing wildlife from a distance
Blackridge Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Blackridge Wilderness?
- Blackridge is in Utah, adjacent to the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, with Zion Wilderness bordering it to the northeast. BLM manages 13,015 acres here.
- Are there maintained hiking trails?
- No maintained trails cross the wilderness. Hiking and backpacking require independent route planning and off-trail navigation. Confirm legal access with BLM rather than treating a map marker as a trailhead.
- What makes the landscape distinctive?
- Red Navajo Sandstone canyon walls are capped by the Carmel Formation. Black Ridge, formed by the Hurricane Fault, offers views toward Zion National Park, Canaan Mountain, and the Pine Valley Mountains.
- Can bicycles or motor vehicles enter the wilderness?
- Motorized equipment and mechanical transport, including bicycles and OHVs, are generally prohibited in designated wilderness. Contact BLM about any applicable exceptions and current regulations.
- Can drinking water be assumed available?
- No. Streambed riparian habitat, seeps, and hanging gardens occur here, but those features do not establish reliable drinking-water supplies. Confirm water conditions before departure, carry sufficient water, and treat any collected water.
- How should visitors protect the area?
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces, pack out waste, leave natural objects in place, and minimize campfire impacts. Give wildlife space, especially raptors nesting on cliff walls, and avoid disturbing hanging gardens around seeps.