Velvet Lake Road

Total Miles
8.5

Elevation

3,200.38 ft

Duration

1 Hours

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Velvet Lake Road offers a relatively moderate trail experience, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. One notable feature is a water crossing that can become impassable depending on water levels, as the bottom is muddied and has concealed large rocks. You'll also encounter a gate that may be locked at any moment. This means you should be prepared to turn back and navigate the water crossing again if the gate is locked. It's essential to be aware that there are no alternative routes to bypass the water crossing. There's a challenging section of the trail that is narrow and rocky and weaves through an area where the road has been rerouted. This part of the trail is particularly tight, making it quite a challenge for full-size vehicles to navigate. In terms of camping, the available spots are limited and it's worth noting that the camping spots lack fire rings.

Photos of Velvet Lake Road

Velvet Lake Road
Velvet Lake Road

Difficulty

This is an uneven, rutted dirt trail with loose rocks, erosion, and washes. There is a large and possibly over hood deep water crossing, mud holes, and obstacles up to 18 inches, including ledges and short, steep grades. Roads are typically one vehicle wide with places to pass. One section of this road becomes extremely tight; a full-size vehicle will not make it through, as it is more geared toward ATVs, but a compact high-clearance vehicle will do fine with correct placement. The water crossing on this trail can become impassable during wet seasons. Do not enter the water if you are unsure of the depth because it is a soft muddy bottom with very large hidden rocks.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

Craig Wright
Jun 01, 2024
Open
Normal
Muddy/Wet

Access Description

From Escalante, head east on West Highway 12/West Main Street toward South Center Street. Continue to follow West Main Street. Take Posey Lake Road, North Pine Creek Road, Hells Backbone Road and FR 154 to FR 1372. Turn left onto East Main Street. Turn left onto North 300 E. Turn right onto North 300 E/Posey Lake Road. Turn right onto Pine Creek Road/Posey Lake Road. Continue straight onto North Pine Creek Road. Continue onto Hells Backbone Road. Continue straight onto FR 154. Turn left onto FR 1372 Velvet Lake Road.

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