Soapstone Basin OHV Trail

The optimal season for mountain biking this trail is from July through mid-October. This period avoids heavy snow, which typically covers the high-altitude sections outside these months. Fall offers particularly stunning views with brilliant golden aspen foliage.

The trail is predominantly a 100% 4x4 track, consisting mostly of rutted dirt roads. You can expect occasional rock outcrops and rare stretches of loose rock. It is not a singletrack trail, and riders should be prepared for a rough path, sometimes with puddles. The high altitude means even moderate slopes can feel strenuous, similar to climbing in sand.

The trail system offers several options. A popular choice is a 15.4-mile loop. Alternatively, you can do a 15.2-mile out-and-back ride to the Duchesne River Gorge Overlook. These can also be combined for a longer 21-mile adventure, allowing for varied experiences.

The trail is generally rated as 'intermediate technical but strenuous' for mountain biking. Its difficulty primarily stems from the significant elevation gain at high altitudes (starting around 8,500 feet and reaching over 10,000 feet), which makes climbing particularly challenging. It is not recommended for beginners due to the physical demands and rough terrain.

Yes, the trail is renowned for its picturesque scenery. You'll encounter panoramic views of canyons and rocky cliffs, including impressive overlooks of the Duchesne River Gorge. The high-altitude environment provides cool, refreshing air, and you'll traverse forests of fir and aspen with frequent open meadows, especially beautiful during summer alpine flower blooms or fall foliage.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Rhodes Canyon Road, Silver Meadows Road, Trail Hollow West Road, and Mill Fork Road, offering connections and varied route possibilities within the area.

Specific parking areas are typically found at designated trailheads along the main access roads. Given its popularity as an OHV trail, there are usually established parking spots suitable for vehicles, often near the entry points to the various loops and out-and-back sections. Look for signage indicating OHV trail access points.

The Soapstone Basin OHV Trail is located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits required for mountain biking on the trail itself, nor are there entrance fees for accessing the National Forest. However, always check the latest regulations from the U.S. Forest Service before your visit, especially regarding OHV use, which may have different rules.

While not explicitly stated in the trail description, trails within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest typically allow dogs. It is crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a safe experience for all trail users, especially given the shared-use nature with ATVs and other motor vehicles. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out pet waste.

The trail involves significant elevation changes. It starts around 8,500 feet and can reach up to 10,150 feet in some sections, or 9,850 feet for the main loop. Riders can expect substantial climbing, with about 1,600 to 1,800 feet of vertical gain. For instance, riding counterclockwise includes a 'grunt climb' of approximately 500 vertical feet over 1.4 miles to Soapstone Pass.

Yes, the extensive trail network provides opportunities for undeveloped camping directly from the trail. This allows for a more immersive outdoor experience. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, camp in established sites where possible, and be aware of any fire restrictions or specific regulations for dispersed camping in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.