Near Thunder Mountain Loop
Near Thunder Mountain Loop
Near Thunder Mountain Loop
Near Thunder Mountain Loop
Near Thunder Mountain Loop

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Hike Route

Thunder Mountain Loop

No rating
15.3
mi
Distance
1,772
ft
Gain
extreme
Difficulty
Views

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
15.27mi
Distance
1,772ft
Elevation Gain
1,772ft
Elevation Loss
60%
Max Grade
8,296ft
High Point
7,079ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
Thunder Mountain Trail is a 15.8-mile loop that is located west of Bryce Canyon National Park in Red Canyon of Dixie National Forest. This loop features smooth singletrack and dirt road trails across a colorful hilly terrain with expansive canyon views. It boasts some of the most scenic red rock formations in the entire state! This loop consists of an uphill beginning followed by a gradual descent. This trail is popular for running, hiking, and mountain biking.Take Thunder Mountain Trail 33098 from the Thunder Mountain Trailhead. The trail begins with an ascent and climbs for approximately four miles. Upon reaching the top of the climb, Thunder Mountain Trail descends towards Coyote Hollow Road. Continue on Coyote Hollow Road until you reach Scenic Byway 12 (UT-12). Turn left onto the Red Canyon Bike Path and follow it all the way back to Thunder Mountain. Although this route is described counterclockwise, it can be completed either way.BEST SEASONSThe ideal time to explore this area is May-October. GETTING THEREThe Thunder Mountain Trailhead is located off of Scenic Byway 12 (UT-12). The trailhead features a bathroom but no water (water may be available at the nearby Red Canyon Visitor Center). CAMPINGThis loop passes by the Red Canyon Campground, located near the Red Canyon Visitor Center. For more information about the Red Canyon Campground please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dixie/recarea/?recid=24944. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONThunder Mountain Trail: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dixie/recreation/recarea/?recid=40228. Red Canyon Visitor Center: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/dixie/recreation/recarea/?recid=24942&actid=120.

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Contributors
Lani Advokat