Paiute Trail — Tushar Mountains to Fish Lake Plateau via Fremont Indian Country
Fremont country. Tushar peaks. Fish Lake basin.
The Paiute ATV Trail system is the backbone of Utah’s high-country off-road scene, and the corridor linking the Tushar Mountains above Beaver to the Fish Lake Plateau is the crown jewel of the network. You’re riding through terrain the Fremont people worked for centuries — petroglyphs at Fremont Indian State Park sit just off the main corridor, and the land still carries that weight. The Tushars punch above 12,000 feet with volcanic ridgelines, aspen groves, and views clear to Nevada. Drop north onto the Fish Lake Plateau and you’re crossing one of the highest flat-topped landmasses in North America, with spruce forest, elk, and enough dispersed camping to keep you busy for a week.
The main connector route is best suited to ATVs and side-by-sides as designated, but high-clearance 4WD trucks can work the Forest Service roads that parallel and intersect the trail network — particularly Forest Road 640 through the Tushars. Difficulty ranges from easy graded gravel to rocky shelf roads requiring lockers. Best season is mid-June through September; snow closes the high passes both ends of that window. No permit required. Fuel at Beaver, Richfield, or Loa — carrying extra is smart. Water is available at developed campgrounds; filter everything else.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry, High Clearance, Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel, Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 55 mi / 88.5 km |
| Duration | 2-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 12082 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Beaver, UT |
| Land manager | Fishlake National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| 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 4Runner or Wrangler run this without any mods?
Yes — a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle handles this route fine under normal conditions. Aired-down tires help on the rockier sections, but no lift or lockers are required.
When does the trail actually open after winter, and is snow still a factor in June?
The route typically opens late May to mid-June depending on snowpack, but sections near 12,000 feet in the Tushars can stay snowed in through early June. Check with Fishlake National Forest before heading out in early season — conditions vary year to year.
Do I need any permits or passes to run this route?
No permit is required for the overland route through Fishlake National Forest. Dispersed camping is free; just follow Leave No Trace and don't camp within 200 feet of water sources or the trail itself.
What's the hardest section, and what should I actually expect?
The upper Tushar Mountain segments near maximum elevation are the most demanding — loose rock, steep grades, and exposed ridgeline travel with limited bailout options. It's still rated moderate, but don't underestimate altitude fatigue and afternoon thunderstorm windows above treeline.
Where do I fuel up, and is there water along the route?
Fuel up in Beaver, UT before you leave — there's nothing useful between the trailhead and Fish Lake. Water crossings exist on the route but treat everything before drinking; carry at least 5-7 gallons as a buffer given the 55-mile length and 2-4 day duration with zero cell service throughout.
Trail track
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