Trail Overview

Travel on I-15 to exit 82. On the east side of the interstate to north on to frontage road. Continue north on the frontage road till you come upon the back side of the rest area off I-15. On the north side of the rest area, the start of Cottonwood Canyon will turn right. Follow along till you come upon the gate. Open the gate and enjoy the amazing and beautiful views that await.

Photos of Panguitch Lake - Scenic Route

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Difficulty

Trail is mainly gravel with a few water crossings. Rain and weather may cause wash outs and rutted areas with mud. Traveled this route on June 28th 2023 and Horse Valley/Panguitch Lake had snow covering trail, but there is a bypass which you can travel around.

History

Part of the trail is the original Spanish Trail. A large sign is posted along the route and you can read part of the history and story behind the Spanish Trail.

Technical Rating

Buddy Nielsen

Aug 31, 2025

Open

I drove it starting from the bottom of Little Canyon road all the way through Panguitch with a Tundra and a 22 ft off road trailer and it was great, super easy going.

Cody Foster

Jun 20, 2025

Open

trail is tight in spots however was able to run the trail in a full size 2500 RAM PW, one vehicle width most of the trail

Eric lindholm

Apr 15, 2025

Open

Just drove part way but it was clear of snow. Normal conditions. Some mud but minor. A few fallen trees that were removed. Didn’t drive the whole trail, went up red creek road and cruised around on the top sections no problem. Sign at red creek said closed but it was fine

Ty Palmer

Jul 06, 2024

Open

Drew Simone

Jun 22, 2024

Open

Gate locked - lots of tumbleweed in front