BLM finalizes San Rafael Swell Wilderness Canyoneering Environmental Assessment
San Rafael Swell Wilderness Canyoneering EA Signed and Posted to ePlanning
The Bureau of Land Management has finalized the San Rafael Swell Wilderness Canyoneering Environmental Assessment (EA) (DOI‑BLM‑UT‑G020‑2025‑0028‑EA), now available on ePlanning. The EA analyzes proposed issuance and renewal of Special Recreation Permits (SRPs) for commercially guided canyoneering and hiking in 15 technical canyons across the San Rafael Swell and San Rafael Desert. Thirteen of the canyons lie within designated Wilderness Areas, where the BLM is required to protect wilderness character and resource conditions while still meeting federal multiple‑use mandates, including those supported by the EXPLORE Act and Dingell Act. The EA outlines permit stipulations and design features that ensure guided access occurs in a manner that preserves wilderness values and maintains public safety.
The decision record can be found at: https://eplanning.blm.gov/Project-Home/?id=D3C235F0-A7F2-F011-8407-001DD803D067
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.