The Thunder Trails network is located just south of Norwood and offers 19 miles of hiking and biking opportunities. There are 4 different loops, and all can be connected to form longer hikes. Forest Road 609 provides access to the area. Do note that dirt bikes are allowed on these trails.
The Thunder Loop is 4.6 miles in length and is the first loop you’ll come to driving in. There is a large trailhead area with informative signs, plenty of parking, and a porta-potty. There is also free camping nearby at the handful of designated campsites.
The trail offers easy hiking through pine forest and the occasional open meadow area. If hiking clockwise, you’ll begin with the smoothest stretch of trail first. A small but easy climb is really the only noticeable elevation change of the entire trail. The trail is well marked with arrows pointing the way on bends.
You’ll then reach the junction with the Portis Loop. Turn right, cross the road and stay right at the next junction to remain on the Thunder Loop.
The second half of the loop walks near the rim of Naturita Canyon. The trail here turns a bit rockier in tread, but nothing too bad. Unfortunately the views aren’t quite as stunning as you may expect, but they are still nice. Even the La Sal mountains of Utah are visible at a few points.
The trail then crosses the road again and ends at the trailhead where you first started.
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