Mount Ellen-Blue Hills Wilderness Study Area

The Mount Ellen-Blue Hills Wilderness Study Area is located in south western Utah along the Henry Mountains. To the west lies the Capitol Reef National Park. The Blue Hills of the region lie in the northern and western portions of the wilderness study area. Besides these rugged yet rolling hills, the wilderness area also encompasses Mount Ellen Peak which is part of the Henry Mountains. There are 10 named mountains in Mount Ellen-Blue Hills Wilderness Study Area. The highest and the most prominent mountain is Mount Ellen Peak standing at 11,467 feet and 5,784 feet of prominence.

This study area uses Mount Ellen Peak to learn more about American geology along the Colorado Plateau. Mount Ellen, and the surrounding land, are a prime example of intrusive mountain structures, stream gradients, and the formation of upturned sedimentary rocks. Besides being the highest peak in the region, Mount Ellen is also the largest in diameter, stretching up to 12 and 15 miles along its base. Though the region is used for studying the unique landscape of central Utah and the Waterpocket Fold, it is also accessible to hikers, bikers, and four wheeling on some roads.

One of the most iconic features of these mountains and the surrounding land is the American bison. These mountains are home to the only huntable, free-roaming herd of bison in the United States, excluding Alaska. The herd has grown to over 200 buffalo since 18 were transplanted to the region back in 1941. While hunting is allowed, only 44 permits are issued each year to ensure the population of bison can survive. Other animals within the range include mule deer, antelope, mountain lion, jackrabbits, rattlesnakes, various small reptiles, and a multitude of birds.

The diverse and steep slopes of the Henry Mountains, are home to multiple plant zones. The lower elevations of the range are often covered in desert shrubs and brush while the intermediated zones have juniper and pinyon trees. The higher elevations are home to Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, and aspen trees, where forests flourish. Above the tree line, the rugged peaks are interspersed with alpine grasses.

Major Trails and Hiking Areas

Mount Ellen Peak: The trail to Mount Ellen Peak is 5.6 miles out and back with 1,800 feet of elevation gain. The trail climbs steadily through the mountain range, with visibility in all directions. The clearly defined route takes hikers all the way to the summit of the tallest peak in the range. From here, hikers have panoramic views of southwestern Utah with the Colorado Plateau stretched out before them. The Capitol Reef National Park lies to the west while Lake Powell can be seen down to the south.

South Cainesville Mesa: Located at the northern end of the Henry Mountains lies the South Cainesville Mesa. This 5-mile out and back trail has 1,000 feet of elevation gain, much of which is in the last half mile before turning back around. The trail showcases the rugged plateaus, flat peaks, and deep canyons characterized by this range.

Little Rockies: Mount Holmes and Mount Ellsworth, are often referred to as the “Little Rockies” of the region. These two peaks are separated by a plateau from the rest of the mountain range. Hiking either of these peaks offers a panoramic view of the rest of the range.

Major Cities and Resorts

Moab, Utah

An hour east of the Mount Ellen-Blue Hills Wilderness Study Area lies the iconic city of Moab, Utah. The city has a population of just 5,400 residents but is often full of tourists due to its close proximity to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. While hiking trails surround the city, Moab is also a popular destination for mountain bikers with many major trails leading right from the city. The city is known as being an outdoor mecca for these sports as well as whitewater rafting, BASE jumping, and slacklining/highlining. The city sits at 4,025 feet of elevation just south of the famous Colorado River.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is the most populous city in the state of Utah and it lies just over three hours north of the Mount Ellen-Blue Hills Wilderness Study Area. The city’s population is 200,000 while the metropolitan area is estimated to be about 1.2 million. The city is known for being an outdoor adventure paradise. Surrounding the city are seemingly endless places to go hiking, biking, running, and skiing. The city was home to the 2002 Winter Olympics and is closely located to numerous ski resorts. There are 5 national parks near the city, allowing for countless opportunities for hiking. Popular restaurants include Red Iguana, White Horse, The Copper Onion, and Nomad Eatery.