Cave Towers

Cave Towers

  • Locale: Cedar Mesa
  • Time: 1-2 Hours
  • Fee: None

Cave Towers is an impressive Ancestral Puebloan site consisting of the fragile remains of seven structures sitting atop the rim of Mule Canyon. This particular site dates to roughly 1250 CE and the arrangement of structures – some of which were likely towers while others were above-ground kivas – may imply defensive uses. The site is accessed via a short hike from the upper parking area down a rocky two-track road. Parking is found in a large area which has been leveled just before reaching the two-track. Dispersed camping is also allowed, though there are no facilities at this site. Cave Towers sits on a square-mile section of Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration land which is embedded within Bears Ears National Monument.

Special Considerations

The two-track road leading to the trail kiosk is very rocky and should only be used by persons with disabilities. Please use the dedicated upper parking area to access the hike. There are no facilities in the parking area so please be prepared to pack in water and pack out poop and trash. Rattlesnakes are commonly seen in and around this site; be aware you may encounter snakes while hiking or camping.

  • Archaeology
  • Hiking
  • Full Day
  • Tips For Visiting Here with Respect
    Camp & Eat Away from Archaeology

    Camp & Eat Away from Archaeology

    Ancestral sites and structures are where Tribes and Pueblos believe their ancestors' spirits still reside. Camping, fires, and food can damage cultural sites and spoil the view for other visitors. Remember to pack out all your waste, including food scraps and poop.

    Stay On Designated Roads

    Stay On Designated Roads

    Use existing roads that are approved for use by land managers. Driving off-road can damage fragile archaeology and ecosystems.

    Steer Clear of Ancestral Structures

    Steer Clear of Ancestral Structures

    Structures are spiritually alive and still hold cultural significance to Tribal peoples. When recreating, visitors should refrain from leaning on walls, no matter how solid they look and avoid touching, standing on, or climbing in structures as they can be easily damaged.
  • Maps and Directions
  • Coordinates: 37.532478, -109.732170
  • Directions:

    From Bluff: Travel north on Hwy 191 for 21 miles. Turn left onto UT-95 N and continue for 19.1 miles. Turn left on an unmarked road that is between mile markers 103 and 102, closing the gate behind you. Drive approximately 120 yards to a fenced parking area. From here, walk down the trail south towards the mouth of the canyon.

    From Blanding: Drive south on Hwy 191 for 4 miles, turn right onto UT-95 N and continue for 19.1 miles. Turn left on an unmarked road that is between mile markers 103 and 102, closing the gate behind you. Drive approximately 120 yards to a fenced parking area. From here, walk down the trail south towards the mouth of the canyon.