Brian Head - Level 1

Brian Head Peak Road climbs from the Brian Head area to the summit of Brian Head Peak, the high point of the Markagunt Plateau in southwestern Utah. The road runs through open high country and some stands of conifers, with views across the plateau and the surrounding country.

It is a short run that most visitors do as a scenic drive or a side trip while camping or staying in the nearby town. A pit toilet and an information board sit along the way, and there are several places to camp.

Trail Summary

LocationBrian Head, Utah
Distance3.8 miles
DifficultyLevel 1
Elevation10,365 ft to 11,254 ft with a 889 ft change
Travel Time30 minutes

Difficulty

Suitable for high clearance 2WD

Level 1 is an easy trail, suitable for high clearance 2WD. Stock equipment is enough. Expect dirt or rocky surface with small challenges under 5 inches, such as rocks, dips or ruts, and gentle grades with good traction. Roads are typically two vehicles wide. The log marks the hardest spot at level one, near the upper part of the road. There is a shelf road section, but it is wide enough for two vehicles to pass.

Terrain

The road is dirt and rock with gentle grades, running at high elevation on the Markagunt Plateau. The lower part is open with no shade or trees. Higher up there are stands of trees near the camp spot and information board. One section follows a shelf along the slope, and the road stays two vehicles wide through it. The summit area is open and exposed.

Highlights

The summit is the main draw, with a lot of photo opportunities at the top. Camping is available at two spots along the road, one open and one in the trees, so you can choose between more exposure and a bit of cover.

To get more information and the trail GPS file, please visit Trails Offroad.

Map

The interactive map needs JavaScript. Every waypoint is also listed below.

Photo Log note only Number = waypoint (everything within 50 m shares one)

Waypoints

Waypoint 1 (37.66895, -112.83916)

Start of Brian Head Peak Road.

Camping for three to five rigs with easy access. No shade, trees or privacy.

Waypoint 2 (37.67172, -112.83623)

Camping for three to five rigs with easy access. No shade, trees or privacy.

Display board with area information and a single-stall pit toilet. There is also a camp spot in the trees with some shade and privacy, room for about three rigs including trailers.

Waypoint 3 (37.68614, -112.81937)

Display board with area information and a single-stall pit toilet. There is also a camp spot in the trees with some shade and privacy, room for about three rigs including trailers.