Dry Fork Canyon
- Length:
- 21.5 miles
- Time:
- 3.0 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 5750 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 5750 - 7102 feet
- Season Availability:
- Spring, Summer, Fall
This ride follows paved roads the entire way and is an excellent evening ride that is fun for cyclists of all abilities. The road leads to an enormous collection of Fremont Indian petroglyphs and passes the historical marker for Dry Fork Village, an early settlement of the Ashley Valley. All that remains of the town today are the remnants of a few old outbuildings and cabins.
From Vernal, drive north on 500 West and turn left onto 500 North, heading west. Follow the sign right to the Remember the Main Park and Red Cloud Loop. Ahead 3.3 miles is the trailhead at Remember the Main Park. Pedal up Dry Fork Canyon, passing through the peaceful valleys and slickrock cliffs. Just over 3 miles ahead is the McConkie Ranch. The canyon wall inside the ranch contains hundreds of Fremont petroglyphs. On the main road, continue up canyon for 2 more miles and turn right at the junction. The creek may be dry in spots as it flows underground in some sections; thus the name Dry Fork Canyon.
Three miles from the junction is the historical marker for Dry Fork Village, now a ghost town. The ride continues for another 3 miles into the upper canyon, passing a few picnic areas. The pavement ends at the boundary with the Ashley National Forest. Turn around here and enjoy the downhill cruise back to your vehicle.