#blm utah

Travel back to the wild west at John Jarvie Historic Ranch in Utah. In 1880, John Jarvie built a ranch along the Green River to offer store goods to those that lived or traveled in this wild territory. Jarvie chose this location due to a naturally occurring river crossing which was used by Native Americans, fur trappers, travelers and local residents. Today, you can camp, fish, float and enjoy educational demonstrations at this fascinating site. Photo by Bob Wick, Bureau of Land Management (@mypubliclands).

It used to be much harder to send a selfie. In the 1860s, riders carried the mail from Missouri to California -- covering 1,800 miles in 10 days. Today, visitors can explore sections of this famous mail route along the Pony Express National Historic Trail and learn about the challenges faced by the young men who kept the coasts connected. It might have been dangerous work, but you couldn’t beat the views. Photo from a section of the trail in Utah by Bob Wick, Bureau of Land Management (@mypubliclands).

No, this isn’t another planet. It’s Skyline Rim, near Factory Butte in eastern Utah. Massive wrinkles in the rugged landscape give this place an otherworldly appearance, especially in the fading light of dusk. Photo courtesy of Brock Slinger.

This awesome shot of Fantasy Canyon in Utah took the scenic landscape prize in the 2016 Share the Experience Photo Contest. The intricate sandstone formations and terrific light make this unique area a photographer’s dream. If you have outstanding pictures from public lands, sign up and share them at www.sharetheexperience.org for your chance to have your photo on the America the Beautiful public lands pass! Photo by John D’Onofrio (www.sharetheexperience.org). @mypubliclands

Soaring above a maze of red canyons, the Fisher Towers are a dramatic sight along the Colorado River in Utah. A National Scenic Trail winds 2.2 miles around the stone pinnacles and climbs up to nearly 360 degree views. Experienced climbers can test their skills on the rock faces while less daring visitors can enjoy relaxing moments at the nearby Bureau of Land Management campsite. Pro-tip: clear nights offer incredible stargazing opportunities. Photo by Adam Jewell (www.sharetheexperience.org).