Whether it’s your first time visiting or your hundredth, questions always come up when planning a trail day. From maps and permits to the best time to visit, you’ll find practical answers here to make your outdoor experience smooth and memorable.
Most hiking and OHV trails in Vernal are open year-round, though snow in higher elevations may limit access during the winter months. Snowmobile trails typically open in December and remain accessible through early spring, depending on snow conditions.
Check the latest updates on our Trail Conditions page or call our office at 800-477-5558 for real-time information on closures, weather impacts, and road accessibility.
Most maintained trails have signs at trailheads and key junctions. However, some backcountry and OHV routes may require GPS navigation or downloaded maps.
Yes! Free maps for hiking, biking, OHV, and snowmobile routes are available on our trails pages, or you can pick up printed copies at the Uintah County Travel and Tourism office.
Yes, Utah requires a permit for all OHVs and snowmobiles. You can purchase permits online at stateparks.utah.gov or from local vendors in Vernal.
Many Vernal-area trails allow pets on a leash. Always check individual trail signs for restrictions and remember to clean up after your pet.
Depending on the season, you may encounter deer, elk, pronghorn, wild turkeys, and a variety of birds. Higher elevations may also have moose or black bears. Be sure to observe animals from a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Dispersed camping is allowed on most public lands, though some areas have restrictions. Check local regulations or contact us for details.
Some popular trailheads have vault toilets or seasonal restrooms, while more remote areas may have none, so plan ahead.
Many trails have designated parking at or near the trailhead. Larger OHV staging areas are available for motorized routes. See individual trail pages for specifics.
Several local outfitters in Vernal rent bikes, ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles.
Yes! Several short, easy trails offer minimal elevation gain and scenic views. Visit our hiking trails page to find trails with an ‘easy’ difficulty rating.
A few local paths and nature walks have paved or hard-packed surfaces suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Fishing and hunting are allowed in certain areas with the appropriate Utah licenses. Always check current regulations and seasonal restrictions before heading out.
Yes, local outfitters offer guided hiking, OHV, and snowmobile tours for visitors who want a curated experience or extra safety guidance.
If your question isn’t listed here, please contact us at 800-477-5558. We’re happy to help you plan your perfect outdoor adventure.