03/11/2026
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1362191839283836&id=100064790976093
Big news for western Colorado’s public lands! 🎉
The Bureau of Land Management has officially acquired the Escalante Ranch, a 4,000+ acre inholding within the Dominguez‑Escalante National Conservation Area. This incredible conservation win protects miles of canyon, river, wildlife habitat, and cultural history while expanding public access to one of the most spectacular landscapes in western Colorado.
The acquisition was made possible through funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, with key support from Great Outdoors Colorado, The Conservation Fund, and the Bureau of Land Management working together to bring this land into public ownership.
For us at Colorado Canyons Association, this is a huge win for conservation, recreation, and the future of our National Conservation Lands. We’re excited to continue educating the community and stewarding these landscapes alongside our federal partners.
As visitation grows, we can all help protect Escalante Canyon by keeping a few things in mind:
🌿 Take care of the canyon
Stay on established routes, use pit toilets where available, and pack out all waste from campsites and recreation areas.
🚜 Be mindful of neighboring landowners
Please respect posted private property and agricultural areas near access points, and drive slowly when traveling in and out of the canyon.
🦅 Watch for wildlife closures
Seasonal raptor nesting protections may begin around mid-March in some areas. These temporary closures help give nesting birds the space they need to successfully raise their young.
Together, we can help ensure this incredible place remains protected and accessible for generations to come.
📖Read more about the acquisition in the article from The Colorado Sun (link in bio!)
