Sand Creek Great Western Trailhead
Overview
The Sand Creek Great Western Trailhead is located approximately 1 mile north of Torrey, Utah along Forest Road 146 at 6,950 feet in elevation. This trailhead provides access to the Great Western Trail to the north, as well as to the Velvet Ridges open riding area.
Facilities
There is a small dirt and gravel parking area, vault toilet bathroom and an information kiosk available at this site. Please pack out, what you pack in.
Natural Features
Sand Creek Great Western Trailhead is situated in a sage flat with incredible views of the sandstone and red rock formations. Thousand Lake Mountain is to the north, and Boulder Mountain is to the south.
Recreation
Popular activities in the nearby area include OHV Riding, hiking, biking, horseback riding and scenic driving. Areas of interest nearby include Boulder Mountain, Capitol Reef National Park, Fruita Schoolhouse and scenic byway 12. Open riding is available just up the trail to the northwest in the Velvet Ridges. The trail also provides access to Hell's Hole which is a challenging trail open only to vehicles 50 inches or less in width. The Great Western Trail north of the trailhead is a challenging and rough route that eventually turns into a narrow trail open only to vehicles 50 inches or less in width.
Sand Creek Great Western Trailhead
General Information
Mid-April to November
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.
Address: 138 South Main Street Loa, UT 84747
Phone: (435) 836-2366
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am - 4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 38.30975833
Longitude: -111.4323556
Elevation
6,950
Directions
The Sand Creek GWT Trailhead is located 1.5 miles northwest of Torrey, Utah. Head west on UT-24 (Main Street) for approximately 0.7 miles. Turn right (north) onto the Sand Creek Road for 0.7 miles. The trailhead will be on the right (east) side of the road.
Parking
Small dirt and gravel parking area
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are not 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.
