The best walks and hikes in Manti-La Sal National Forest

Embark on the easy Clark Lake Loop Trail, a 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike that takes you through varied forest landscapes. You'll gain 629 feet (192 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically lasts around 1 hour and 28 minutes. As you hike, you'll transition from dense conifer forests into bright aspen groves, especially after ascending from Lake Oowah. Keep an eye out for wildflowers blooming in late summer, adding splashes of color to the path. While the forest can sometimes obscure them, you'll catch glimpses of the serene Clark Lake and the majestic La Sal Mountains.

Good footwear is essential for this route, as you'll encounter some rocky sections and steeper parts with switchbacks. Although rated easy, hiking poles are recommended for those more challenging portions to help with stability. This is a multi-use trail, so be prepared to share the path with mountain bikers and equestrian users during your visit. Always be aware of your surroundings and yield to other trail users.

Clark Lake holds a unique distinction as the only lake in the La Sal Mountains that is not accessible by road, adding to its secluded charm. The trail offers a chance to experience the diverse ecosystems of Utah's Manti-La Sal National Forest. You can expect to see a mix of dark conifer trees and vibrant aspens, creating a dynamic and engaging natural environment throughout your hike.

Descend into Brumley Creek canyon on this moderate 0.6-mile (1.0 km) hike to discover a surprisingly lush environment. You will gain just 10 feet (3 metres) in elevation, making it a quick 16-minute journey. Look for ferns, moss-covered cliffs, and groves of aspen and evergreen trees, all leading to the striking Brumley Arch and a scenic waterfall.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail is typically accessible from June to October, or once the snow has melted. You should be prepared for steep and potentially loose sections, so proper footwear is essential, and hiking poles are recommended. During high stream flow in June and July, you might encounter knee-deep water at creek crossings, and rocks near the waterfall can be very slippery.

This route offers a refreshing contrast to the typical red rock landscapes often found in the Moab area, showcasing a unique ecosystem within the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The Brumley Arch itself is a distinctive sandstone formation, making this short hike a memorable experience for its natural beauty and geological features.

Embark on the Gold Knob Trail for a moderate hiking experience that rewards your efforts with truly expansive vistas. This route covers 2.3 miles (3.7 km) and involves a significant climb of 1576 feet (480 metres), which you can expect to complete in about 1 hour and 31 minutes. As you ascend, you'll find yourself surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Manti-La Sal National Forest, with the terrain becoming steeper and looser closer to the summit. Keep an eye out for mountain wildflowers like blue columbines, depending on the season, adding splashes of color to the landscape.

To begin your adventure, locate the trailhead off the Miners Basin trail, approximately 1.4 miles from Warner Campground. Be prepared for potentially chilly conditions at the summit, especially outside of summer, due to the high altitude. The ridgelines can also be quite windy, so dressing in layers is a good idea. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended for navigating the steep and sometimes uneven path, and hiking poles can provide extra stability on the ascent and descent.

The Gold Knob Trail is renowned for its panoramic views that stretch across to iconic national parks. From the top, you can gaze upon Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park. Look down into Castle Valley to identify the distinctive Priest and Nuns rock formations, with the Colorado River carving its way through the landscape below. This trail offers a unique perspective on the region's dramatic geology and vast wilderness.

Embark on the Mount Peale Trail, a moderate hike that takes you to the highest point in the La Sal Mountains. This route covers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with a substantial elevation gain of 2499 feet (762 metres), offering a challenging ascent that typically takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. As you climb, you will experience an alpine environment, moving through pine forests and past wildflowers, which provides a cool contrast to the desert below.

Before you head out, be aware that the trail is often unofficial and relies on cairns for marking, so you will need good route-finding skills. You should also prepare for sections with loose rock, talus slopes, and some scrambling. Always check current conditions, as snow can remain on the peaks well into the summer months, affecting accessibility and trail safety.

From the summit of Mount Peale, you are rewarded with expansive panoramic views. You can see across to Moab, Arches National Park, and Canyonlands National Park, making this a truly memorable experience. The trail offers a unique perspective of the region's diverse landscapes, highlighting the dramatic transition from desert to alpine terrain within the Manti-La Sal National Forest.