Trail Overview

The trail goes between Duck Creek and connects to Red Desert, which connects shortly after to Highway 143. From the trail, numerous other trails are accessible and can go between Garfield County and Iron County. These trails are part of the Forrest Service trail system that is around the Duck Creek Area. There is a short section of this trail that goes over a lava rock bed, but it doesn't have ledges or any real obstacles to navigate.

Photos of Markagaunt Plateau

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Difficulty

This trail is mostly on an even surface without any obstacles.

Technical Rating

David Bronson

Jul 04, 2026

2023 Can-Am Maverick X3 Max RR

Open

Rough/Deteriorated

Very rough terrain thru lava flow. High clearance required. I would not do this trail again without A Rockcrawler set up.

Derek Ross

Jul 02, 2026

2025 Honda Pioneer 1000-6

Open

DustyRough/DeterioratedWashboard

Trail is stated as easy the whole way which is not true, it is very rough with lava flow crossings that require high clearance to make it through when your a few miles from duck creek

Rick B

Jun 19, 2026

2020 Jeep Wrangler JLUR

Open

DustyRough/Deteriorated

Take note that OnX rates the entire Markagunt Plateau Trail as a 1, and this is inaccurate. There are several portions of trail that require a high clearance vehicle with low-range gearing. Several rock gardens and deep ruts. JLUR on 37” tires 5:13 gears towing an Escapod Topo 2 trailer and some portions were tight/narrow and challenging. Absolutely stunning scenery and no mid-week crowds.

Kyle Mueller

Jun 07, 2026

Open

Rough/Deteriorated

Mostly empty trail, but don't underestimate the lava fields. Large rocks, high clearance required with some careful driving