Burlfriends Trail

Embark on the Mount Peale Trail, a moderate hike that takes you to the highest point in the La Sal Mountains. This route covers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with a substantial elevation gain of 2499 feet (762 metres), offering a challenging ascent that typically takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. As you climb, you will experience an alpine environment, moving through pine forests and past wildflowers, which provides a cool contrast to the desert below.

Before you head out, be aware that the trail is often unofficial and relies on cairns for marking, so you will need good route-finding skills. You should also prepare for sections with loose rock, talus slopes, and some scrambling. Always check current conditions, as snow can remain on the peaks well into the summer months, affecting accessibility and trail safety.

From the summit of Mount Peale, you are rewarded with expansive panoramic views. You can see across to Moab, Arches National Park, and Canyonlands National Park, making this a truly memorable experience. The trail offers a unique perspective of the region's diverse landscapes, highlighting the dramatic transition from desert to alpine terrain within the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Embark on the Mount Tukuhnikivatz Trail, a moderate hike spanning 6.1 miles (9.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2253 feet (687 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 3 hours and 43 minutes. As you ascend, the landscape shifts from gentle meadowlands dotted with aspen trees to more challenging, steeper terrain, culminating in the rewarding Mt. Tukuhnikivatz Summit. From the top, you are treated to expansive panoramic views that stretch across the distant desert. This trail offers a true sense of accomplishment as you climb towards the sky.

Before you go, be aware that the final push to the summit is quite demanding, involving an off-trail climb up a steep slope with loose talus and a short scramble. The access road to the trailhead at La Sal Pass can be rugged, often requiring a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, and you might encounter impassable stream crossings during periods of high water. The best time to hike this trail is typically from mid-summer through mid-fall, when the route is usually free of snow.

This trail is notable for its incredible vistas, allowing you to see far-off landmarks like Moab, Canyonlands National Park, and even Arches National Park. From the summit, you will witness the desert floor plummeting a dramatic 8,500 feet below, offering a unique perspective of the region's vastness. Located within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, this route provides a memorable experience for those seeking a challenging climb with unparalleled views.