Trail Overview
Ward Canyon Road is an easy, scenic dirt and gravel route ideal for beginners, families, and those seeking quick access to sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island. Spanning approximately 4.7 miles with a steady climb of about 1,679 feet, the trail begins near the landmark white Bountiful "B" on the hillside above Bountiful, Utah. The well-maintained, packed dirt and gravel road is generally wide enough for two vehicles to pass, making it accessible for standard two-wheel-drive vehicles under dry conditions, though four-wheel-drive is always recommended for mountain travel. As the trail ascends from an elevation of 5,192 feet up to 6,871 feet, drivers will navigate several blind turns that require caution and moderate speeds due to oncoming traffic.
The route leads to the Old Ward Canyon camping and target practice area, serving as a popular gateway for outdoor recreation. Because of its proximity to town, the trailhead parking lot at the bottom can get highly congested on weekends with dirt bikes, quads, and SxSs. Seasonal gate closures are in effect during the winter and spring months, restricting vehicle access past the lower parking area. For those visiting during the summer and fall, continuing past the gate links directly into the larger Skyline Drive trail system, offering extended high-elevation routes and even more dramatic vistas of the surrounding valleys.
Access Description
A gate past the lower parking lot is closed to vehicles during the winter and spring seasons. In the summer and fall, the route is open to most vehicles, though high-clearance and four-wheel-drive are recommended for mountain travel.
