24,475 acres
Description
The proposed wilderness includes both Cross Canyon and Cahone Canyon Wilderness Study Areas. The canyons comprise the northwest corner of the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. These canyons possess a rare combination of scenic beauty, remoteness, and archaeological values. The steep canyon rims drop abruptly from surrounding mesas into canyon bottoms lined by graceful cottonwood trees and a lush desert riparian zone. Kivas and small storage structures are hidden among the rocks and cliffs. Ruin Canyon holds an intact square tower similar to those found at Hovenweep National Monument. The off-chance of discovering rock art on canyon walls or pieces of pottery in the dirt makes exploring these isolated canyons exciting and mysterious.
