Abajo Mountains
Mountains Mountain range in southeastern Utah
A compact mountain range in southeastern Utah near Monticello, the Abajo Mountains offer pine forests, marked trails, mountain biking and scenic drives above the surrounding desert.
The Abajo Mountains, also called the Blue Mountains, are a compact mountain range in southeastern Utah in San Juan County, near the town of Monticello. They are a prominent forested highland rising above the surrounding Colorado Plateau.
The range’s highest summit, Abajo Peak (often called Blue Mountain), reaches roughly 11,360 feet (3,461 metres) and supports conifer forests, summer meadows and numerous streams and small alpine lakes. Trails provide access for hiking, camping and seasonal recreation.
Geologically the Abajos are associated with igneous intrusions and uplift that produced a high, forested massif distinct from nearby desert plateaus. The range lies within a short drive of Monticello and is near national public lands in southeastern Utah.
- Highest elevation: The range's highest point rises to about 11,360 feet (3,461 metres), offering alpine scenery and forested slopes uncommon in surrounding lowlands.
What to See #
- Abajo Peak (Blue Mountain): The highest summit of the range, known as Abajo Peak or Blue Mountain, reaches approximately 11,360 feet (3,461 metres) and forms the dominant local landmark.
How to Get to Abajo Mountains #
Access is typically from U.S. Highway 191 through Monticello or from Blanding via county roads; the main approaches are on Forest Service roads within the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Expect unpaved roads for many trailheads and limited cellular reception.
Tips for Visiting Abajo Mountains #
- Use a high-clearance vehicle to access rougher forest roads; many trailheads are on unpaved county routes.
- If planning multi-day hikes, carry detailed maps - trail signage in some parts is sparse.
- Watch for sudden afternoon storms in summer; the mesa country drains quickly and lightning is a real hazard.
Best Time to Visit Abajo Mountains #
Late spring through early autumn is the prime season for access and hiking; winter brings deep snow and limited vehicle access.
Weather & Climate near Abajo Mountains #
Abajo Mountains's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -10°C to 23°C. Moderate rainfall (541 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 1°C and lows of -10°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -9°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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March
March is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 5°C. The driest month with just 22 mm.
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July
July is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with 63 mm of rain.
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September
September is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -9°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
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