Dixie National Forest Backcountry Loop
Five life zones from desert to alpine
This loop stitches together fire roads and OHV routes across Dixie National Forest’s million-plus acres, climbing from red rock desert near Zion’s backdoor through ponderosa forests to the rim of Bryce Canyon’s amphitheaters. The route threads between private ranch land and crosses the Sevier River at multiple fords, with a challenging climb up the Paunsaugunt Plateau where snow lingers into June and aspen groves turn gold in September.
Rate it moderate — any high-clearance 4WD handles the maintained sections, but side spurs to viewpoints demand low-range work over loose rock. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms and flash flood risk in washes. No permits needed for forest roads, but check fire restrictions. Cedar City offers the last reliable fuel and supplies. Cell service exists on ridgetops but dies in canyons. You’ll cross five distinct life zones in one trip and camp under stars unmarked by city lights.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 180 mi / 289.7 km |
| Duration | 4-5 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9600 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Cedar City, Utah |
| Land manager | Dixie National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler handle this loop without modifications?
Yes — the minimum is a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle and this trail is rated Moderate, so a bone-stock 4Runner, Tacoma, or Wrangler will get through fine. Aired-down tires help on the rougher dirt sections, but lift and lockers aren't required.
When does the trail open in spring and is snow a real concern?
Best season runs May through October. Higher sections near 9,600 ft can hold snow into late May or early June depending on the year — check with Dixie National Forest (fs.usda.gov/dixie) before you go. Avoid October after a hard freeze; mud at altitude gets ugly fast.
Do I need a permit to run this loop or camp in Dixie National Forest?
No permit is required to drive the route. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest under standard 14-day stay limits — no fee, no reservation. Camp 200 feet off the road and away from water sources.
What's the hardest section of the loop and what should I actually expect?
The trail is Moderate overall, so nothing here should have experienced off-roaders white-knuckling it. The most demanding stretches involve loose dirt climbs and eroded two-track as you gain elevation through the life zones — the challenge is route-finding and sustained 4WD, not technical rock crawling.
How should I plan water and gas for 180 miles of remote backcountry?
Cedar City is your last reliable fuel stop before heading out — fill completely. There are water crossings on the route but treat all backcountry water before drinking. Cell service is spotty at best for most of the loop, so download offline maps and carry a satellite communicator.
Trail track
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