Alton-Coalville Forest Road Network
Utah's forgotten mountain backroads
The Alton-Coalville network strings together forgotten forest service roads through northern Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, connecting the Mormon pioneer towns of Coalville and Alton via a maze of logging roads that most locals have never driven. This route follows portions of Forest Roads 007, 058, and connecting spurs through dense aspen groves and high meadows dotted with abandoned homesteads. The trail passes by several small reservoirs and crosses numerous seasonal creek beds, with the highest point reaching nearly 9,000 feet in elevation.
Easy to moderate difficulty depending on conditions, requiring only high-clearance vehicles in dry weather but 4WD when muddy or snowy. The route is passable June through October, with fall being spectacular when the aspens turn gold. No permits needed, and dispersed camping is allowed throughout the national forest. Fuel up in Coalville—you won’t see services for 60+ miles. This is pure backcountry solitude in Utah’s forgotten corners, perfect for hunters, photographers, and anyone wanting to escape the Wasatch Front crowds without the technical challenges of Moab.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 73 mi / 117.5 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8950 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Coalville, Utah |
| Land manager | Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 2WD truck handle the Alton-Coalville Forest Road Network?
Yes, but it needs to be high-clearance — a lifted or factory high-clearance 2WD pickup or SUV will manage the dirt roads fine in dry conditions. A standard sedan or low-clearance crossover will bottom out on the rougher sections. 4WD isn't required but adds confidence if you hit soft spots.
When does the Alton-Coalville network typically open and close each year?
June through October is the reliable window — snow can linger into late May at the higher elevations near 8,950 ft and can return as early as October. Check road conditions with Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest before heading out in shoulder months.
Do you need a permit or pay any fees to drive this network?
No permit or fee is required to drive the forest roads. Dispersed camping on Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest land is free, though standard 14-day stay limits apply — follow Leave No Trace and any posted restrictions.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
This is rated easy, so there's no single gnarly obstacle — the challenge is the remoteness across 73 miles of dirt rather than technical terrain. Expect washboard sections, occasional soft shoulders, and creek crossings that can get slippery after rain. Hardest part is staying oriented on a network with limited signage.
How far is the nearest gas station, and should I top off before starting?
Coalville, Utah is your best bet for fuel before launching — top off there. The network spans 73 miles of remote forest roads with no services, so carry extra fuel if your rig is thirsty or you plan side explorations. Running dry out here means a very long wait for help.
Trail track
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