Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
1,619.00 ft (493.47 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
15.80 mi (25.43 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Thunder Mountain Trail is a 15.8-mile loop that is located west of Bryce Canyon National Park in Red Canyon of Dixie National Forest. This loop features  smooth singletrack and dirt road trails across a colorful hilly terrain with expansive canyon views. It boasts some of the most scenic red rock formations in the entire state! This loop consists of an uphill beginning followed by a gradual descent. This trail is popular for running, hiking, and mountain biking.

Take Thunder Mountain Trail 33098 from the Thunder Mountain Trailhead. The trail begins with an ascent and climbs for approximately four miles. Upon reaching the top of the climb, Thunder Mountain Trail descends towards Coyote Hollow Road. Continue on Coyote Hollow Road until you reach Scenic Byway 12 (UT-12). Turn left onto the Red Canyon Bike Path and follow it all the way back to Thunder Mountain. 

Although this route is described counterclockwise, it can be completed either way.

BEST SEASONS

The ideal time to explore this area is May-October. 

GETTING THERE

The Thunder Mountain Trailhead is located off of Scenic Byway 12 (UT-12). The trailhead features a bathroom but no water (water may be available at the nearby Red Canyon Visitor Center). 

CAMPING

This loop passes by the Red Canyon Campground, located near the Red Canyon Visitor Center. For more information about the Red Canyon Campground please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dixie/recarea/?recid=24944

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Thunder Mountain Trail: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dixie/recreation/recarea/?recid=40228

Red Canyon Visitor Center: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dixie/recreation/recarea/?recid=24942&actid=120

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic canyon views. Unique geology. Hoodoos.

Cons

Hikers must watch out for mountain bikes.

Trailhead Elevation

7,119.00 ft (2,169.87 m)

Highest point

8,272.00 ft (2,521.31 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Big vistas

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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