The BLM currently manages 54 BLM-designated National Back Country Byways totaling approximately 2,952 miles in 11 western states.  In addition to the BLM National Back Country Byways, approximately 60 National Scenic Byways or State designated scenic byways, totaling nearly 2,500 miles, traverse BLM lands in seven states.  Some examples of these include the Billy the Kid Trail National Scenic Byway in New Mexico, the Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway in Oregon, the Gold Belt Tour National Scenic Byway in Colorado (also a BLM Back Country Byway), and Highway 12 - Journey Through Time All-American Road in Utah.

 

BLM’s Byways Program, established in 1989, is a component of the National Scenic Byways Program. BLM State Directors designate BLM Back Country Byways on BLM public lands. Other Byway designations – such as National Scenic Byways, All-American Roads, State Scenic Byways, or National Forest Scenic Byways – may also occur on portions of BLM lands, but must be designated through a State Department of Transportation or other Federal agency.  Since many BLM-designated byways cross other Federal, state, county and private lands, their designation and management can vary based on the agency responsible for the management of the byway.  

 

BLM Back Country Byways serve a unique niche in providing an “off-the-beaten-path” adventure through landscape settings as diverse as the West itself.  Click here to learn more about BLM’s Back Country Byways.  Additionally, you can find descriptions of each BLM Back Country Byway via the America's Byways® website link at the bottom of this page, or if you click here. 

 

Following are two lists of Byways that cross portions of BLM managed land. The tables include information on the state in which the Byways exist, their length in miles, and their type (designating the type of road and vehicle needed to safely travel the Byway):

 

BLM’s Byways Handbook, 8357-1, 1993, provides specific direction for BLM’s Back Country Byways program, including information on Byways nomination and designation, planning criteria, visitor safety, and specifications for entrance kiosks.

 

 

Following is a list of links to Byways-related Web sites:

 

John McCarty

Byways Program National Lead