Exploring Huntington Canyon: A Scenic Adventure in Central Utah on and Early Fall Day

Описание: My Western Road Trip - Huntington Canyon Utah

At 9 minutes 44 seconds a BIG DEAR TROTTED ACROSS THE ROAD IN FRONT OF ME! You have to always be watching for Deer in the Utah Mountains… a lot like Texas Hill Country - they seem to be everywhere at just the wrong time.

This is part of a series of Videos that I am making or have made by now on my Adventures out West and is part of my Travels as I incorporate more into my Blog based Website UntamedAustn.com™ and YouTube Channel. I hope you enjoy. Thanks

SORRY ABOUT THE BUG SPLATTER ON THE WINDSHIELD NOT MUCH I COULD DO ABOUT IT. THE REFLECTIONS HOWEVER… ALL ON ME.

Nestled in the Wasatch Plateau of Central Utah, Huntington Canyon is a natural gem known for its rugged beauty, steep cliffs, and alpine forests. The canyon winds through the mountains, offering a thrilling drive, stunning views, and opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking.

Huntington Canyon: Scenic Beauty and History

The Wasatch Plateau, part of the larger Wasatch Range, is known for its dramatic landscapes. The Huntington Canyon Scenic Byway (Utah State Route 31) offers breathtaking views as it climbs from Huntington (elevation 5,600 feet) to the Huntington Reservoir at about 8,000 feet. Along the way, visitors can enjoy forests of pine, aspen, and spruce, with views of the surrounding valleys and rugged mountain peaks.

The Drive and Fairview Canyon

The drive up Huntington Canyon is a beautiful yet challenging route. From Huntington, the road steadily ascends through rolling hills, with the steepest section being the descent into Fairview Canyon, where the grade hits up to 8%. This section can be dangerous for large vehicles due to sharp turns and steep inclines, so it's best suited for light vehicles or those with 4-wheel drive.
The canyon’s winding roads offer stunning views, but they require caution, especially on Fairview Canyon, where drivers must navigate tight curves and steep grades.

Camping and Outdoor Recreation

For those looking to spend time in nature, Huntington Canyon offers several campgrounds, including:
Huntington Canyon Campground: A popular spot near Huntington Creek, ideal for fishing and hiking.
Mill Creek Campground: At higher elevations, this spot offers peaceful camping with access to mountain trails.
Fairview Canyon Campground: Located near Fairview Reservoir, it's a great spot for those looking to fish or explore the lower canyon.

These campgrounds offer a chance to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Wasatch Plateau, with easy access to Huntington Creek, Huntington Reservoir, and numerous hiking trails.

When Does Huntington Canyon Become Impassable?

Due to its high elevation, Huntington Canyon becomes impassable in winter. Snow can begin to accumulate as early as October and last into April, especially on the steeper sections of the road. Road closures are common during the winter months, so it’s important to check conditions before heading out.

Conclusion

Huntington Canyon offers a mix of scenic beauty, challenging roads, and outdoor recreation. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or driving, it’s a must-visit destination in central Utah. Just be sure to drive carefully, especially on the steep slopes of Fairview Canyon, and check road conditions before winter visits.

Key Details for Your Trip:
Elevation Gain: From 5,600 feet (Huntington) to 8,000 feet (Huntington Reservoir).
Road Difficulty: Fairview Canyon descent is steep (8%) and dangerous for large vehicles.
Campgrounds: Huntington Canyon, Mill Creek, and Fairview Canyon.
Snow Closures: Road usually impassable from October to April due to snow.

“Straight”
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