Little Eva Mine

Trail Overview

Non-Resident OHV permits apply to ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes. Plated street-legal vehicles typically do not need one on legal motorized routes. This scenic route passes the former Little Ava Mine, now known as the Lucky Strike Mine, adding a touch of mining history to an otherwise relaxed backcountry drive. The trail surface is mostly sand and dirt with a few lightly rocky sections, making it a generally easy route for most high clearance vehicles equipped with 4WD. One notable obstacle is a steep hill climb that is rocky and washed out, requiring careful tire placement and a controlled approach. Beyond that section, the drive is enjoyable and scenic, with distant views of the La Sal Mountains and surrounding desert rock formations. Wildflowers can add bursts of color along the route, creating a nice contrast against the red dirt and rugged landscape.

Photos of Little Eva Mine

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Difficulty

Most of this route is straightforward, traveling on sandy dirt roads with only light rocky sections. The primary challenge is one steep, washed-out hill climb where careful tire placement and 4lo range gearing may be helpful, especially for longer wheelbase vehicles or in loose conditions. Outside of that obstacle, the trail remains manageable for most stock high-clearance 4WD vehicles. Dry weather keeps the route relatively easy, while recent rain can increase erosion and traction challenges on the climb.

History

This region is closely tied to the uranium and vanadium mining booms that shaped eastern Utah in the mid-1900s. During the Cold War, demand for uranium surged, bringing roads, claims, camps, and small industrial sites into the desert. Evidence of that era remains today in the form of old structures, fenced or barricaded mine openings, tailings areas, and abandoned access roads. These remnants are part of the area's story; look at and photograph them without disturbing anything.

Technical Rating

Little Eva Mine can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike