Trail Overview
The Papa Bear Poker Run 2021 is an exceptionally scenic, beginner-friendly loop starting and ending near Marysvale, Utah, making it a perfect adventure for stock all-wheel-drive vehicles and novice offroaders looking to explore the beautiful Sevier Plateau area. This route was mapped during a local annual charity event that changes paths each year, providing a unique snapshot of the region's vast trail network. Navigating the loop is straightforward, with the terrain consisting of well-defined dirt and gravel surfaces, very mild hills, and minimal obstacles, with most loose rocks remaining well under six inches in height.
Covering approximately 64.7 miles, the trail demands no technical rock crawling or water crossings, though it delivers impressive elevation changes, starting at 5,826 feet and peaking at 9,837 feet with over 8,100 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Along the way, drivers are treated to sweeping, panoramic views of the Tushar Mountains, Piute Reservoir, and the rugged slopes near Munsten Peak. Because of the high-altitude sections, the trail is best experienced from late spring through autumn, when roads are clear of snow and dry conditions prevail.
Access Description
There are no permits or fees required to drive this public route. Because the trail climbs to nearly 10,000 feet, seasonal closures due to snow are common from late fall through late spring. Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas and carry plenty of water, as there are no services or water sources along the trail.