CHEESE BOX CANYON WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

This WSA is in the Canyonlands Section of the Colorado Plateau Physiographic Province. The WSA is a small mesa capped by the Cheesebox and cut by four meandering, steep-walled canyons which drain southwesterly into White Canyon. The surface of the mesa slopes gently southwest, and is almost featureless except for a few low buttes. About half of the WSA is barren of vegetation. The remainder is pinyon-juniper woodland and scattered stands of Ponderosa pine. Douglas fir is found on north facing slopes at the higher elevations with scattered areas of desert shrub and grasses. Visitors can find evidence of late 19th and early 20th century cowboys. Peregrine falcon and bald eagle may make occasional use of the WSA. Desert bighorn sheep inhabit the upper ends of Cheesebox Canyon, as well as Found Mesa and Fry Point.

Visitation Information

Located in San Juan County, about 34 miles west of Blanding, UT. Natural Bridges National Monument is less than 2 miles to the east and includes part of White Canyon. Hikers from the Monument sometimes extend their trips in to the WSA portion of White Canyon.

Visitor Advisory

Visitors should come prepared for backcountry conditions and adequately prepare for their trip. Knowledge of weather, terrain, and physical conditions can help ensure safety.