Americas 250 encourages walking

There are no shortages of walks in San Juan County and the Americas 250 events in 2026 provide motivation and even a little swag for those who participate.
The Walk 250 Challenge encourages participants to log miles walking throughout the year and San Juan County offers some incredible places to add some of those miles.
Avid hikers may want to try the following:
• Chesler Park / Joint Trail Loop in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, 10.7 miles
• Druid Arch Trail in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, 10.8 miles
• Grand Gulch in Bears Ears National Monument, in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. 6 to 12+ miles
Family Friendly Walks include:
• Sipapu Bridge Trail in Natural Bridges National Monument, 1.2 miles
• House on Fire in Bears Ears National Monument, 3 miles.
• Sand Island Petroglyph Walk near Bluff, 1 mile.
Dog Friendly Walks include:
• Bluff River Trail, 1-2 miles
• Butler Wash Interpretive Trail in Bears Ears National Monument, 0.8 miles.
• Wildcat Trail in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, 4 mile loop.
Scenic Strolls (under 2 miles) include:
• Pothole Point Trail in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, 0.6 miles
• Owachomo Bridge Trail in Natural Bridges National Monument, 0.4 miles
• Natural Bridges Viewpoint in Natural Bridges National Monument, 0.5 miles
Sunrise/Sunset Walks include:
• Slickrock Foot Trail in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, 2.4 miles
• Valley of the Gods Scenic Walk Areas, 1-4 miles.
For more details, check out Utah’s Canyon Country website at utahscanyoncountry.com. Zions Bank is sponsoring additional Walk 250 Challenge.
Other local events for the Americas 250 celebration include “Voices of Freedom” a musical variety show on July 2 and 3 at Monticello High School.
On July 5, Monticello will participate in the Nationwide Neighborhood Potluck, where everyone can gather as neighbors and friends to relax and enjoy good food and good company.
“The Pen is Mightier,” an America 250 traveling exhibit, will be at the Monticello Library from August to October.
America 250 activities will also take place in Blanding leading up to, and in connection with, the Independence Day celebration hosted annually by Blanding City.