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MOAB, UTAH

Hiking in the Manti-La Sal Mountains

Hiking trail winding through the La Sal Mountain National Forest area.

Best Trails in the Manti–La Sal National Forest

Few places in Utah offer the contrast you’ll find in the La Sal Mountains. In less than an hour, you can leave Moab’s desert heat behind and hike through cool forests and flower-filled meadows. Whether you’re summiting peaks or strolling around mountain lakes, hiking in the Manti–La Sal National Forest is the perfect way to see Moab from a whole new perspective.

Tips for Hiking in the La Sal Mountains

Check for Weather & Access: Trails above 10,000 feet may hold snow into early summer. Always check Manti–La Sal National Forest weather before heading out. Manti–La Sal National Forest Weather Information


Bring Layers: Temperatures can drop 30°F between Moab and higher elevations.


Leave No Trace: Pack out trash and respect wildlife and trail conditions.


Vehicle Note: Many trailheads (like Burro Pass or Geyser Pass) require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles.

Planning Your Hike: Trailheads & Access Points

Warner Lake Campground: Great base for several loop trails.


Geyser Pass Trailhead: Access to Burro Pass and Mount Peale routes.


Oowah Lake Campground: Easy lakeside hikes and picnic area.


Maps: Manti–La Sal National Forest Map Information


Sun Divider Dark.
Mountain biker rides along a trail through a grassy, green mountainside.

Burro Pass Trail

5+ Miles | Strenuous | 1.5 Hrs

Though primarily used by mountain bikers to begin the epic "Whole Enchilada" route, hikers can explore this steep, rugged route through dense aspen and fir forests. Expect wildflowers in summer, snow patches well into early season, and the occasional biker flying down the narrow, technical descent.


A narrow dirt path winds through lush green and reddish-brown vegetation on a hillside.

Hazard County Trail

5+ Miles | Strenuous | 1.5 Hrs

Though primarily used by mountain bikers to begin the epic "Whole Enchilada" route, hikers can explore this steep, rugged route through dense aspen and fir forests. Expect wildflowers in summer, snow patches well into early season, and the occasional biker flying down the narrow, technical descent.


Mountains reflected in a calm lake, with trees along the banks. Snow on peaks, sunny day.

Warner Lake to Oowah Lake

2 Miles | Moderate | 1.5 Hrs

The scenic trail between Warner Lake and Oowah Lake in the La Sal Mountains offers a peaceful forested hike with alpine views, wildflowers, and cool summer temperatures. The path winds through aspen and pine, crossing streams and meadows, with occasional glimpses of red rock canyons far below. At around 4 miles one-way, it’s moderate in difficulty and a refreshing escape from Moab’s desert heat.

A serene lake nestled in a forest, surrounded by tall evergreen trees and a grassy hillside.

Oowah Lake to Clark Lake

3 Miles | Strenuous | 1.5 Hrs

The trail between Oowah Lake and Clark Lake in the La Sal Mountains is a serene 2.5-mile route through shady pine and aspen forests. Gently climbing at first, the trail opens to meadows and scenic overlooks before reaching the quiet, less-visited Clark Lake. It's a moderate hike with minimal traffic, offering solitude, and wildlife sightings.


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What Else is on Your Moab Play List?

After some exploring on your own, you may want to explore even further. Guided tours make it possible (and easy) to get soaked on the river, rappel down a rope to a hidden slot canyon, or climb to the "top of the world" on a Hell's Revenge Hummer Tour.

Red rock archway with two figures silhouetted in the opening, set against a colorful sky.

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

See the park without the parking hassle.

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People rafting down a river in a red raft, paddling through white water.

MOAB RAFTING

Half-day & full-day trips with BBQ lunch included.

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Red Hummer SUV off-roading in desert terrain with snow-capped mountains in the background.

HUMMER SAFARIS

Ride over slickrock on Moab's most famous trail.

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Aerial view of a red-rock canyon with a winding river at sunset; airplane wing in the top corner.

SCENIC FLIGHTS

Get a birds-eye view of Arches & Canyonlands.

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CANYONEERING

Explore hidden canyons with a rush of adrenaline.

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ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

See the park without the parking hassle.

VIEW TRIPS

MOAB RAFTING

Half-day & full-day trips with BBQ lunch included.

VIEW TRIPS

HUMMER SAFARIS

Ride over slickrock on Moab's most famous trail.

VIEW TRIPS
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