Island in the Sky Trail
Sections of the trail can be difficult to follow. Look for cairns and blazes marking the trail. Mosquitoes are prevalent in spring and early summer. Wear a long sleeve shirt and pants and use insect repellent. The weather can change quickly. Be prepared for cold weather year-round. Ridges, saddles, viewpoints and open meadows are dangerous during thunderstorms.
Access to the Great Western Trail via a steep climb through mixed conifer, aspen and open meadows.
Moderate level trail by hiking and horseback. Difficult level trail by bike.
No water availability.
Visit the trail guide and map here: Island in the Sky Trail Guide and Map
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
The Trailhead: From Escalante drive west on Hwy 12. Turn right on the dirt road between milepost 55 and 56 and cross the Escalante River. After a short distance, make a right on the road signed “Barker CG.” This is forest road 149 (FR 149). At 11.9 miles the road forks. Turn right on FR 507 and follow signs to Island in the Sky.
The Trail: From the trailhead the trail climbs steeply. At .5 miles the trail enters a meadow. Continue straight up the hill. Look for rock cairns to guide you through the meadows. At 1 mile the trail reaches the Pine Creek Section of the Great Western Trail No. 001.6.
No water available. Please bring own water for drinking.
Address: 755 W Main , PO Box 246 Escalante, UT 84726
Phone: (435) 826-5499
Hours: Closed Sunday - Monday, Open Tuesday - Saturday 9 am - 4 pm. (Closed on federal holidays)