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Little Red Mountain Trail

Vernal, Utah · Uintah County · Facility

The Little Red Mountain Trail was identified and recommended in 2010 for BLM trail designation by the Uintah Mountain Club (UMC) which helped identify and pioneer the trail. The trail was designated that summer and through collaborative efforts from the UMC, the Oakley School, and the BLM, the trail now provides a sust…

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About Little Red Mountain Trail

The Little Red Mountain Trail was identified and recommended in 2010 for BLM trail designation by the Uintah Mountain Club (UMC) which helped identify and pioneer the trail. The trail was designated that summer and through collaborative efforts from the UMC, the Oakley School, and the BLM, the trail now provides a sustainable recreation opportunity for the public. The trail shares its parking and beginning segment with the hiking and equestrian communities. From there, the equestrians follow an old wagon road and then traverses a plateau to a slick rock overlook of the picturesque Ashley Creek. The equestrian trail has an intermediate hill climb which is fairly steep up the old wagon road and has some technical rock for your horse to get through. The hikers head north up the slick rock where the views of Vernal are stunning. The hiking trail is approximately 1.5 miles in length and is suitable for intermediate hikers. The hike is best done in the spring/summer/fall, but please avoid the trail system when it is wet to prevent damage. Anticipate a rapid change in elevation and rest frequently if you need to! The most difficult part of the trail is the beginning, through the small walkthrough (remember to close it!) gate. Bring lots of water as summer temperatures can be well over 100 degrees. Weather in this area changes quickly so be prepared for inclement changes!

How to Get There

From Vernal, UT: Travel north on 500 West which curves to the east and becomes UT Hwy 121. Turn north on 3500 West (Dry Fork Canyon Road). Turn north across Dry Fork on concrete bridge. Turn east on Dry Fork Cemetery road. Turn south on dirt road in front of cemetery fence. Travel through gate (remember to close the gate behind you) and proceed to parking at the intersection. Parking is not marked, and currently there is not a designated trailhead. Use your map and GPS unit to help you find your way. Hiking trail is marked with rock cairns and paint stripes. Equestrian trail will break off onto two-track wagon road.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Little Red Mountain Trail

Heading to Little Red Mountain Trail? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Little Red Mountain Trail?

No central reservation system listed for Little Red Mountain Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/257252) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Little Red Mountain Trail?

From Vernal, UT: Travel north on 500 West which curves to the east and becomes UT Hwy 121. Turn north on 3500 West (Dry Fork Canyon Road). Turn north across Dry Fork on concrete bridge. Turn east on Dry Fork Cemetery road. Turn south on dirt road in front of cemetery fence. Travel through gate (remember to close the gate behind you) and proceed to parking at the intersection. Parking is not marked…

How do I contact Little Red Mountain Trail?

You can reach the park at phone: 435-781-4400 or email: utvnmail@blm.gov.