Jeeping Near Salt Lake City
Utah is home to some of the best off-roading and Jeep crawling in the world. Southern Utah offers some of the best off-road trails, while Northern Utah also features great places for off-roading adventures.
American Fork Canyon
Forest Lake Trail
Forest Lake Trail is a favorite destination for many off-roading enthusiasts. Located in American Fork Canyon, forest lake trail offers scenic mountain views at moderate challenge. This trail is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and off-roading.
Travel east on Highway 92 for about 7 miles until you reach American Fork Canyon. Follow the road to Highway 144, which leads directly to Tibble Fork Reservoir. From there, continue another 4.6 miles to reach the Forest Lake Trailhead.
Most off-roaders use the Forest Lake trail from May through October. Keep in mind that access roads may close seasonally, so always check conditions before you go. The trail itself is a 4.8-mile, out-and-back route with moderate terrain.
Drivers often choose this trail to test their vehicles on rocky paths and steeper climbs. The area around Forest Lake is peaceful, with shallow waters, open meadows, and beautiful aspen trees. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic after a day of off-roading in Utah.
Rain can make the trail much more difficult. Be sure to check the weather forecast and prepare for changing conditions if you plan to visit.
Tibble Fork Reservoir
Tibble Fork Reservoir offers one of the most scenic off-roading trails in northern Utah, located near Pleasant Grove in American Fork Canyon. Surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views, this trail is a must for outdoor adventure seekers.
The Tibble Fork trail stretches 31.5 miles and challenges drivers with a moderately difficult route, making it ideal for those with some off-roading experience. This out-and-back trail features rocky terrain and several technical sections, so prepare accordingly.
Along the way, you’ll find several great spots for camping, fishing, and relaxing — perfect for a full day or weekend trip. With its breathtaking scenery and rugged landscape, Tibble Fork Reservoir captures the spirit of Utah’s outdoor beauty like few other trails can.
Pine Mountain OHV Loop
The Pine Mountain OHV Loop challenges drivers with a moderate difficulty level and spans 29.7 miles across rugged terrain in a loop route. Fairly easy trail for people that are novice to off-roading. To get there from Salt Lake City you would take I-15 S for the majority of the drive. St. George is located in Southern Utah near the Arizona border and is used as a starting point to get to other national parks. The weather is favorable in St. George notably has warmer winters. Another fun place to visit near this trail is Sand Hollow State Park, which has breath-taking views and is unlike any other park in Utah. Pine Mountain OHV Loop is a fun, easy trail for all types of off roaders and is located in a place with many entertaining activities around it.
Trails with a View
Mineral Basin
Mineral Basin is a rugged off-roading trail near Highland, Utah, offering 2.7 miles of rocky, technical terrain perfect for experienced drivers. Sitting at an elevation of around 9,000 feet, this out-and-back trail typically takes about three hours to complete and is known for its breathtaking mountain views.
You must purchase a $6 pass which provides access for up to three days, giving you plenty of time to explore the trail and surrounding areas. Mineral Basin is packed with large rocks, steep climbs, and challenging obstacles that will test your vehicle and your off-roading skills. It’s considered one of the top high-elevation off-road trails near Salt Lake City.
To reach Mineral Basin from Salt Lake City, take I-80 East to US-189/US-40 East, continue to River Road in Wasatch County, then follow Snake Creek Road, Cummings Parkway, and Baker Fork Road to Pittsburg Trailhead Road in Utah County.
Another popular off-roading route in the area is Sugarloaf Pass. Starting from Pittsburg Lake Trailhead, the Sugarloaf Pass trail spans 6.7 miles across rugged, rocky terrain and offers stunning views of surrounding mountains and alpine lakes.
Mary Ellen’s Gulch
Mary Ellen Gulch is a rugged off-roading trail in American Fork Canyon. The trail features rocky terrain, scenic mountain views, and challenging climbs. Stretching about 7.3 miles as an out-and-back route, it challenges experienced off-roaders with its difficult terrain and rewarding views.
The trail features rocky paths, sweeping views in every direction, and even a hidden cave to explore. Be aware that road access to Mary Ellen Gulch is often affected by seasonal closures. When roads are accessible, getting there from Salt Lake City is straightforward.
In late summer, the trail tends to be dry and rocky, offering a rugged off-roading experience. Earlier in the season, parts of the trail flow with water into the American Fork River, adding an extra challenge. No matter when you visit, Mary Ellen Gulch promises breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable Utah off-road adventure.
