The Abajo Mountains — or Blue Mountains as they are also known — rise to over 11,000 feet just west of Monticello, forming a dramatic contrast with the redrock canyon country around them. At altitude you get ponderosa pines, aspens in autumn, and long views over the mesas and buttes of southeastern Utah.
The mountains offer hiking trails, camping, and a cool escape from the summer heat at lower elevations. The forest roads that wind through the Abajos are worth exploring if you have a vehicle with some clearance. Access is via Abajo Drive heading southwest from Monticello.