Browse Area G S - Level 2

This route climbs from the desert foothills near the Utah and Nevada line up toward the Pine Valley area of the Dixie National Forest. It follows a Forest Service road that ends at the Browse Area guard station.

The road passes a seasonal closure gate, crosses a narrow ridge and runs along several sections of shelf road. Camping spots are scattered along the way, and the drive ends at the guard station grounds.

Trail Summary

LocationWashington County, Utah
Distance7.6 miles
DifficultyLevel 2
Elevation4,130 ft to 6,062 ft with a 1,932 ft change
Travel Time1 hour 13 minutes

Difficulty

Typically suitable for high clearance 2WD

This is an Easy, Level 2 route. Stock high clearance 2WD is typically enough, though tire traction and ground clearance may be tested. Expect dirt or rocky road with ruts, dips and rocks under 9 inches, and small ledges under 12 inches. The road is usually not maintained after rain or snow. The log marks one harder spot at the Level 2 mark near the upper end. The narrow shelf section is about one and a quarter Jeeps wide and has no pullouts, so watch for oncoming traffic and be ready to back up if you meet someone. The seasonal closure gate was open at the time of the drive.

Terrain

The road starts on desert terrain at lower elevation and gains about 1,900 feet as it climbs. After the seasonal closure gate it crosses a razorback ridge that drops steeply on both sides. A long section of narrow shelf road with no pullouts follows. The log notes that some campsites have a view but no shade, while others sit in tight, shaded spots.

Highlights

Several camping spots are along the route. One has a big view and room for a trailer or a couple of rigs. Another is shaded and private but tight, and not suited to trailers. At the end of the road, a tree behind the guard station looks different from the rest. It is described in the log as a sequoia, and you walk behind the building to see it.