Butch Cassidy OHV Trail

40.356937, -109.498219 Vernal, UT 84078

What do train robbers and dinosaurs have in common? They love hiding in the rocks near Vernal, Utah. You can make like a bandit and join them (posthumously, of course) on the Butch Cassidy OHV trail.

Trail Overview

The Butch Cassidy trail makes a full loop if you take in Asphalt Ridge. There are some steep pitches along the way, making it moderately difficult. From the highest lookout points, you’ll get a clear view of downtown Vernal and Marsh Peak. Perfect for spotting a posse, as well. Plan about four hours to complete the 20-mile trail.

On your ride you’ll see some unique terrain, from layered rock formations to bubbling tar sands. It’s a slightly off-camber road made up of dirt and cobble rock. Not too slick, but you’ll need to pay attention. Most of the loop is moderate, although the Asphalt Ridge portion is for advanced riders. There are a few cracks (great hideout, remember!) you can attempt, if you're craving a bigger challenge. Bring a buddy and winch, in case you get in too deep.

Try this Uintah County off-roading trail in the evening, providing you have proper lighting. The ups and downs feel like you’re on a roller coaster. Screams are optional — 4WD is not. Side-by-sides are recommended for this one. Ah, just like Butch and Sundance. 

Interactive Trail Map

Click on the icon for each of the obstacles.

Trail Details

Timestamps from video

Butch Cassidy Trailhead - Ride like an outlaw on the Butch Cassidy OHV Trail. This trail is rated a 7 on the difficulty scale. We recommend riding a side-by-side or something with 4 wheel drive. Check out this video for more info.

The Waterfall - Obstacle 1 - A steep drop off that will put your traction to the test. Check out this video for more info.

The Pinball - Obstacle 2 - Wide vehicles may lose some paint if this obstacle isn't approached carefully. Check out this video for some help.

The Spine - This ridge will carry you up and out of the canyon. You'll see several good viewpoints from here!

McCoy Flats Corral - McCoy Flats is a great place to use the restroom and take a break. It also the trailhead to great mountain biking!

The Survey Tower - Get a view of vernal from the old survey tower.

Accessible By:

  • Jeeps and 4x4s
  • UTVs
  • ATVs
  • Dirt bikes

Distance: 20 miles

Time to Ride: 4 hours

Downloadable Map Here:

What to Bring

  • Plenty of drinking water
  • Off-road GPS
  • Downloaded map of area
  • Sunscreen
  • Snacks 
  • Cell phone (and charger)

How to Get There

From downtown Vernal, head south toward U.S. Highway 40, then along 1500 East. The trailhead begins on Devils Hole road, on the west side of the highway. 

Butch Cassidy OHV Trail

Nearby Rentals

Do you need a side-by-side? Jeep? ATV? All types of OHVs are available to rent by the hour or day. Ask for recommendations based on the trail you’ll be navigating.

Red Cloud Rentals

Cliffhanger Jeep Rentals 

Nearby Places to Stay

Get an early start by staying just minutes from the trailhead.

Camping

Outlaw Trail RV Park

Lodging

SureStay Plus Hotel

Microtel

Nearby Events

Vernal hosts a hot air balloon festival in August, aptly named Dino Soar Days. Events include a Dino Dash down Main Street, free concerts, food trucks and a car show. And, of course, balloons. Big, beautiful, billowy balloons. Bodacious.

Unwind at the Outlaw Trail Theater in Vernal, Utah. Touting entertainment under the stars, the amphitheater hosts Broadway shows throughout the summer. Check the schedule for the current production.

TRAVEL BUREAU INFORMATION

VISIT DINOSAURLAND

152 E. 100 N.

Vernal, UT 84078

800-477-5558

Visit website

Click here for more OHV trails in this area.

FREE OHV COURSE

Utah requires all OHV operators to complete the free Utah Off-Highway Vehicle Education Course. Operators under the age of 18 shall possess a youth OHV education certificate in order to operate an OHV on public land, road or trail. Operators 18 years of age or older may operate an OHV if they possess an approved adult OHV education certificate. The once-in-a-lifetime course is expected to take less than 30 minutes to complete. 

Take FREE OHV Education Course

Nearby Attractions

National/State Parks
  • Red Fleet State Park
    5
  • Dinosaur National Monument
    10
  • Steinaker Reservoir
    5

Vernal Weather

Average Temperature

Sun
46.4°F
Low19.5°F

Average Precipitation

Rainy weather icon
0.57"

Average Snowfall

Snowy weather icon
0.9"