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Riley Springs Trailhead

Overview
Riley Springs Trailhead is located northeast of Fremont, Utah along Forest Road 206 at 9,300 feet in elevation. This trailhead provides access to the Great Western Trail to the north and south.  The Great Western trail south of Riley Springs is open only to vehicles 50 inches or less in width. The Great Western trail north is open to all vehicles but is a challenging route that is only recommended for those that are 4x4 with high clearance.

Facilities
There is a small dirt and gravel parking area, vault toilet an information kiosk at this site. Please pack out, what you pack in.

Natural Features
Riley Springs Trailhead is situated in a sage flat with a backdrop of quaking aspen.

Recreation
Popular activities in the nearby area include OHV Riding on designated routes, hiking, horseback riding, camping and scenic driving. Areas of interest nearby include overlooks of Capitol Reef National Park and the San Rafael Swell. The Great Western Trail south of the trailhead is a challenging route that is open only to vehicles 50 inches or less in width. This trail wraps around Hens Hole Peak to Elkhorn providing views of Mill Meadow and Forsythe Reservoirs along the way.

General Information

Mid-May through October

Open 24 hours/day

  • Overnight camping is prohibited at the trailhead.
  • Pack out all trash and follow leave no trace principles.
  • Use designated vault toilet to protect natural environment and wildlife.
  • Use existing sites and park only on durable surfaces (not vegetation).
  • Avoid creating new trails.
  • All motorized travel is restricted to designated travel routes. Cross country travel, driving around closed gates and width restriction barriers, and driving on meadows is prohibited.
  • All OHVs are required to be registered and display a permit or sticker for riding on public lands.
  • Yield to hikers, horses and non-motorized users.

No fees are required for this site

  • Pets must be leashed at all times within this recreation area. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and to protect wildlife.
  • Clean up dog waste and dispose of it properly.
  • Keep dogs from chasing, harassing, and disturbing wildlife, livestock or other visitors.
  • Yield to other hikers, horses, and other trail users by stepping off the trail and controlling your dog.

Fremont River Ranger District Office Building Fishlake National Forest located in Loa, UT

Address: 138 South Main Street Loa, UT 84747
Phone: (435) 836-2800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am - 4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 38.5091

Longitude: -111.4802

Elevation

9,300

Directions

Riley Springs Trailhead is located approximately 15 miles northeast of Loa, Utah. Head north on N Main St toward W 100 N St 0.6 miles. Turn right onto UT-72 N/E 500 N continue to follow UT-72 N 1.2 miles. Turn left to stay on UT-72 N 10.3 miles. Turn right onto FR206 2.7 miles. Then turn right destination will be on the right.

Parking

Dirt and gravel parking area

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are available at this site.

Horse/Pack Animal Information

Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.

  • Please stay on designated trails.
  • Use weed-free hay to prevent the spread of invasive plant species.
  • Tie horses to trees in a way that won't damage the tree.

Recreation Opportunities

OHV Trail RidingOHV Trail Riding
OHV Road RidingOHV Road Riding

Last updated April 24th, 2025