Trail Overview
Rattlesnake Canyon is an exciting, moderately challenging route for intermediate offroaders, four-wheel-drive vehicles, and SxSs looking to test their skills on technical terrain with historical mining ruins. Located in the popular Fivemile Pass recreation area, this 1.8-mile trail climbs 606 feet through a rugged canyon, starting at an elevation of 5,508 feet and topping out at 6,114 feet. Drivers will encounter a mix of dirt, loose rock, off-camber sections, and deep ruts that require careful tire placement. Short, steep grades add to the technical flavor of the route, making high clearance and four-wheel-drive highly recommended.
As the trail snakes higher into the canyon, it leads past intriguing remnants of the region's mining history, including old mining tracks and a gated-over historical mine shaft where caution is advised. Navigating the rocky washouts and steep climbs brings visitors to the top of the canyon ridge, which serves as a gateway to an expansive network of intersecting trails. The high-desert landscape offers sweeping views of the surrounding valley, making it an excellent destination for a half-day adventure or a starting point for a longer exploration of the Fivemile Pass area.
Difficulty
This trail up the canyon is a little more technical. Expect off-camber and rutted sections throughout, as well as some rocky spots and short, steep grades to navigate. The trail leads up to some really cool old mining tails, one of which you can drive up. There's even an old mine shaft that has been grated over, but be sure to still use caution around it. Once you reach the top, there are several other trails to explore.
Access Description
Located within the Fivemile Pass Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The area is open year-round for day use and primitive camping with no entrance fees. Utah requires out-of-state operators to purchase an OHV permit, and in-state vehicles must be registered.
