Burr Trail OHV Road

The terrain accessible for hiking is incredibly diverse. You'll encounter pale Navajo sandstone dunes, slickrock mountains, red rock formations, and the rugged Waterpocket Fold. Canyons like Long Canyon feature towering red cliffs, and there are opportunities to explore slot canyons and washes. Be aware that bentonite clay in some areas, especially within Capitol Reef National Park, can make trails impassable when wet.

Hiking difficulty varies greatly. You can find easy walks like Surprise Canyon (2-mile roundtrip) and Singing Canyon, which is family-friendly. Moderate to strenuous options include Lower Muley Twist Canyon, which can be an out-and-back or overnight hike. More difficult, multi-day expeditions like Halls Creek Narrows require strong navigation skills and experience.

The route offers spectacular scenery, including breathtaking views of the Henry Mountains, the red Circle Cliffs, and the contorted landscapes of the Waterpocket Fold. Key features include the iconic Burr Trail Switchbacks, which provide stunning vistas. You can also explore Golden Canyon and enjoy panoramic views from Long Canyon Overlook.

Spring and fall are considered ideal for hiking due to milder temperatures. Summers can be extremely hot, and wet weather can make sections of the road and trails impassable due to bentonite clay.

The Burr Trail OHV Road itself is a public backway, but sections of it and the hiking trails it accesses pass through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Capitol Reef National Park, and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. While there are generally no entrance fees for the Burr Trail itself, backcountry permits are required for overnight trips, especially in areas like Lower Muley Twist Canyon or Halls Creek Narrows within Capitol Reef National Park. Always check with the respective park services for current regulations before your trip.

Regulations for dogs vary depending on which protected area you are in. While dogs are generally allowed on leash on the Burr Trail Road itself, their access to specific hiking trails within Capitol Reef National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, or Glen Canyon National Recreation Area may be restricted. Always check the specific rules for the area you plan to hike.

Parking is typically available at various points along the Burr Trail OHV Road where trailheads or scenic overlooks are located. Since services are non-existent along much of the route, plan your parking based on your intended hike and ensure your vehicle is not obstructing the road.

Given the remote nature and varied terrain, you should be prepared with plenty of water, appropriate footwear for rocky and sandy conditions, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, long sleeves). Cell service is unreliable, so bring maps and navigation tools. For longer or overnight hikes, backpacking essentials and a backcountry permit are necessary.

Yes, the Burr Trail OHV Road serves as a gateway to numerous hiking opportunities and intersects with other paths. For instance, it provides access to trails like Lower Muley Twist - Burr Trail to Post Trail, and in some sections, you might find connections to routes like Lampstand Loop Road, Big Thompson Mesa Road, Wolverine Loop Road, and Deer Creek Trail.

The trail has a rich history, originally developed by rancher John Atlantic Burr in the mid-1800s. He created this route to move cattle through the challenging and rugged terrain of southern Utah, highlighting the ingenuity required to navigate this untamed landscape.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. Short, easy hikes like Surprise Canyon (a 2-mile roundtrip) and Singing Canyon offer a good introduction to the area's unique geology, including slot canyons, with relatively flat and accessible trails.