Public Lands Access Data
Public Lands Access Data (PLAD) is a Bureau of Land Management effort to create and publish a Geographic Information System (GIS) dataset and interactive web map showing legal public access to BLM-managed public lands for recreational use.
- Purpose: To enhance access to BLM-managed public lands through the creation and dissemination of a comprehensive GIS dataset and web map.
- Benefits: This dataset will empower BLM managers, partners, agencies, and the public to make informed decisions on where they can access public land, as well as effectively address access issues and vulnerabilities.
- Scope: The final dataset will consist of legal locations to enter BLM-managed lands via acquired easements and access rights reserved in patents issued by the United States. An easement refers to an agreement between private landowners and the BLM to use private land for a specified purpose, such as access. The final dataset is expected to be complete by April 2026 to meet the requirements of the MAPLand Act.
Access Map
The access map provides the public and other stakeholders with a platform to help easily identify where to legally access BLM-managed public land. Additionally, the GIS data is available for download.
- View an interactive map showing public land access routes.
- Download the access data: lines and polygons.
The dataset was created by researching lands and realty records to identify the legal access that exists, then digitizing the records into a GIS dataset. This is a living dataset that will be updated as data is refined, and new public access is acquired.
Recreate Responsibly
For a safe and enjoyable visit to public lands, please ensure the roads and trails you travel are legally passable. Additionally, while mapped access provides a legal means to reach BLM-managed lands, it does not allow for use of the non-BLM lands crossed. Be respectful of property rights by following these tips:
- Stay on the designated access road or trail.
- Close all gates that were closed when you approached them. Leave them open if they were open when you arrived.
- Leave no trace. Pick up after yourself and others.
- To avoid causing damage to the travel surface, don’t travel over dirt roads and trails during wet weather.
Please recreate responsibly and remember to practice outdoor ethics to ensure all visitors have an enjoyable experience.