Trail Overview
Farnsworth Lake Road is a short, scenic mountain route ideal for offroaders seeking access to the tranquil Farnsworth Reservoir in central Utah's Fishlake National Forest. Stretching 1.3 miles, this high-elevation trail begins off the paved Gooseberry Road (Forest Service Road 640) and climbs through quaking aspen groves. The route features an elevation gain of approximately 246 feet, topping out at around 9,613 feet. Drivers will navigate a technical rating of 4, encountering several tight switchbacks and a bumpy, rocky surface as the road winds over the mountainside.
The trail requires careful tire placement over rocky sections, though it remains accessible to most stock SUVs with decent ground clearance and low-power traction options. Due to its high elevation of over 9,300 feet, the road is typically snowbound through the winter and spring, making late summer and fall the prime seasons for a visit when the aspen leaves change color. The trail terminates at Farnsworth Reservoir, offering scenic views and dispersed recreation opportunities in a pristine mountain setting. Nearby routes like the Niotch-Gates Road and the various Forest Service trails provide additional off-road exploration within the surrounding valley.
Access Description
Located within the Fishlake National Forest, this road is free to access and requires no special permits. Vehicles should have high clearance to navigate the rocky switchbacks over the mountain. Standard Forest Service dispersed recreation rules apply.