McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
|
|
McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area sign close to Grand Junction
|
|
 McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Mesa County, Colorado / Grand County, Utah, USA |
| Nearest city | Grand Junction |
| Area | 123,400 acres (499 km2) |
| Established | 2000 |
| Governing body | U.S. Bureau of Land Management |
The McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area (MCNCA) is a huge protected area in the USA. It covers about 123,400 acres (499 km2) of land. You can find it mostly in Mesa County, Colorado, west of Grand Junction. A small part of it also reaches into eastern Grand County, Utah.
This amazing place is full of rugged sandstone canyons. It has natural arches, tall spires, and hidden alcoves. These features were carved over time into the Colorado Plateau. The famous Colorado River also flows through the area for about 24 miles (39 km).
A big part of the MCNCA is the 75,500 acres (306 km2) Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness. This wilderness area is even more protected. It helps keep the land wild and untouched.
The MCNCA is looked after by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). This is a government agency that manages public lands. The area became officially protected on October 24, 2000. It was first called the Colorado Canyons National Conservation Area. Later, in 2005, it was renamed after Congressman Scott McInnis.
Fun Things to Do at McInnis Canyons
McInnis Canyons NCA offers many exciting activities for visitors. There's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful outdoor space.
- Hiking and Biking: Explore miles of trails on foot or by mountain bike.
- Boating: Float along the Colorado River in a raft or kayak.
- Horseback Riding: Discover the canyons on horseback.
- Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV): Some areas allow OHV use for adventure.
- Wildlife Watching: Look for different animals and birds that live here.
- Camping and Backpacking: Spend a night under the stars in designated areas.
- Hunting: Hunting is allowed in certain seasons and areas.
The area is also important for its unique geology and ancient fossils. Scientists often visit to study these special sites.
Amazing Rattlesnake Arches
One of the most incredible spots in McInnis Canyons NCA is the Rattlesnake Arches area. This place has the highest number of natural arches in all of Colorado! It's even the second highest concentration of arches in the world, right after Arches National Park.
These arches are made of beautiful sandstone formations. They are located deep inside the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness. Because of this, you cannot reach them by car. You'll need to hike to see these amazing natural wonders.
How the Area is Protected
The McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM's office in Grand Junction oversees the area.
To make sure the area is protected, a special guide was created in 2004. It's called a Resource Management Plan (RMP). Think of it like a rulebook for how to take care of the land.
The plan helps the BLM balance different things. It aims to keep the area's natural beauty and allow people to enjoy it. At the same time, it makes sure the land stays healthy for plants and animals.
The RMP uses a method called "adaptive management." This means that the BLM watches how people use the area. They also check on the health of the land. If things change, they can adjust their plans to keep the area protected. The main goal is to preserve the special character of the canyons. They also want to make sure traditional outdoor activities can continue.
