Ancestral Puebloans called Utah home for centuries before white settlers arrived in the Beehive State. Many archaeological sites are found at Cedar Mesa, in the four corners region. From the late BC centuries to about 1200 AD, this area was home to thousands of native people, and the ruins they left behind provide clues about their lives and culture. Here's a short, easy hike in Utah to see views of the impressive Butler Wash Ruins.

The Butler Wash Ruins are located near Blanding on Comb Ridge.

To find the trailhead, take Utah Highway 95 to mile marker 110. There's a paved parking lot at the trailhead and a vault toilet.

The trail to reach Butler Wash Ruins is about a half mile long each way and is considered moderately easy.

The trail is mostly level and suitable for most hikers. You'll traverse slickrock and walk along a trail surrounded by cacti, desert flowers, and sagebrush. Keep an eye out for lizards, birds, and other wildlife. Plan on about a half hour to reach the overlook.

This part of Utah is remote and the scenery is unbeatable.

Make sure you're adequately prepared for this terrain. Sturdy hiking boots and layers that allow for sudden weather changes are recommended. You'll also want to bring plenty of water along.

The overlook provides a great view of the ruins.

A pair of binoculars is helpful to get a close-up view of the ruins, which include cliff dwellings, storage areas, and four kivas. The Puebloan people who lived here likely farmed in the valley floor below. The cliffside location allowed for a good defensive position against possible enemies.

The Bureau of Land Management manages this land and has provided an informational sign at the lookout that tells you more about the people who once inhabited this area.

It's thought that the Ancestral Puebloans left this area around 1200 AD, possibly due to a long drought.

The best time to capture these ruins on film is in the early morning hours, when the sunlight hits them, eliminating shadows.

Accessing the ruins directly is difficult and not advised. These ruins have been stabilized by the BLM, but otherwise, they're as pristine as when they were first discovered in the mid-1800s. Viewing them from a distance helps maintain their structural integrity and keep the ruins intact.

Have you ever hiked the trail to see the Butler Wash Ruins? What did you think of this incredible area? What are some of your favorite hiking trails in the Beehive State? Do you have a favorite easy hike in Utah? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments! You can also learn more about the Butler Wash Ruins and this area on the Bureau of Land Management website.

You'll also want to check out House on Fire — a magnificent archaeological treasure that you can find down an easy, one-mile-long trail.