Cove Lake and Willow Bunch Trails
The Cove Lake and Willow Bunch Trails are important parts of the Arapeen OHV Trail system because of their beautiful scenery and exciting off-road experiences. Located near the Middle Fork and Lowry Fork Trails, these trails are perfect for both beginners and experienced riders. The Cove Lake Trail, which is about 6 miles long and moderately difficult, offers stunning views of the lake and lush forests, making it a peaceful yet thrilling ride. The Willow Bunch Trail is known for its varied landscapes, from open meadows to rugged mountains, providing an adventurous journey.
These trails are popular for several reasons. They are easy to access and well-maintained, making them suitable for many riders. Their strategic location within the Arapeen system allows for connections to other trails, offering plenty of options for longer rides and exploration. The trails also feature historical and cultural sites, adding an educational aspect to the adventure and attracting history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Additionally, the Cove Lake and Willow Bunch Trails lead to some of the most scenic spots in the area, such as beautiful viewpoints, pristine lakes, and quiet picnic areas. They help support local tourism and the economy by drawing visitors who contribute to nearby towns’ businesses.
Getting there
The Cove Lake Trail starts near the Jet Fox Reservoir and Snow Lake. You need to complete the Middle Fork Trail which is near the starting point of the Cove Lake Trail, on this point 39.245924, -111.461924, you need to turn right and you will find the Cove Lake Trail. After 5 miles of driving the moderate trail, you need to turn right 39.200282, -111.418290 and you will find the Willow Bunch Trail.
For better navigating the trails and easy finding the trails we recommend checking the onX Map, we recommend the app for every our customer because it’s much easier to find the trails there.
Trails Difficulty
The Cove Lake Trail is considered moderate in difficulty. It features hill climbs with loose rocks and potentially deep ruts, requiring riders to be cautious and have some experience with rough terrains. While it offers a good challenge, it remains manageable for most riders.
In contrast, the Willow Bunch Trail is rated as easy. Although it includes some hill climbs with loose rocks and a couple of mudholes, it is generally suitable for beginners and those looking for a less challenging ride.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Cove Lake and Willow Bunch Trails is during the spring, summer, and fall months. In the spring, the trails come alive with blooming wildflowers and vibrant greenery, offering a picturesque setting for your adventure. Summer provides warm and pleasant weather, ideal for spending long days exploring the trails and nearby lakes, such as Cove Lake and other scenic bodies of water in the area. Fall is also an excellent time to visit, with the changing leaves creating a stunning backdrop of reds, oranges, and yellows. During these seasons, the trails are typically dry and in good condition, making for a more enjoyable and safer riding experience.
In contrast, visiting during the winter months can be challenging due to the trails becoming quite muddy. The mud can make navigation difficult and increase the risk of getting stuck, especially in areas with deep ruts and loose rocks. Additionally, the colder weather and potential for snow can create hazardous conditions. Therefore, it’s best to plan your visit during the more favorable spring, summer, and fall months to fully appreciate the beauty and excitement of the Cove Lake and Willow Bunch Trails.
Accessible By
UTVs and ATVs are particularly popular choices due to their ability to navigate the diverse terrain, including the hill climbs with loose rocks and occasional mudholes found on these trails. Their maneuverability and stability make them well-suited for both the moderate challenges of the Cove Lake Trail and the easier paths of the Willow Bunch Trail. But those trails are accessible by Dirt Bikes and Jeeps also.
Cove Lake Trail
The Cove Lake Trail, a 5-mile-long path, offers an exciting and scenic off-road experience that typically takes around 1 hour to complete. This trail is known for its moderate difficulty, featuring hill climbs with loose rocks and potentially deep ruts, making it both challenging and enjoyable for riders with some experience. Starting at the north end, the trail connects to Skyline Drive, providing relatively quick access to the southwestern portion of the Arapeen OHV Trail system. This connectivity allows riders to easily explore other nearby trails and enjoy extended rides through the beautiful Utah landscape.
One of the highlights of the Cove Lake Trail is the variety of terrain it covers, including fun hill climbs and fast straights that offer a mix of thrills and speed. The trail’s design ensures that riders can experience different aspects of off-roading, from technical climbs to smoother, faster sections. At approximately the midway point of the trail, riders can take a break at Cove Lake. This picturesque spot is perfect for relaxing, having a picnic, or even trying to catch some fish for dinner. The serene environment of Cove Lake provides a tranquil respite from the rugged ride, making it a favorite stopping point for many adventurers.
Willow Bunch Trail
The Willow Bunch Trail, while shorter and easier than the Cove Lake Trail, provides an equally enjoyable off-road adventure through the scenic landscapes of the Arapeen OHV Trail system. This trail forms the western part of a larger loop that connects to McEwan Flat, offering access to the Cove Lake Trail and serving as a great transition between the northern and southwestern portions of the trail system. The Willow Bunch Trail is perfect for beginners or those seeking a less demanding ride, as it features a few easy hill climbs and a couple of mudholes, ensuring a fun yet manageable experience for all types of riders.
Despite its shorter length, the Willow Bunch Trail is rich in natural beauty and offers a serene ride through varied terrain. The gentle slopes and straightforward path make it an ideal choice for families and groups with mixed skill levels, providing a relaxed yet engaging journey. The trail’s simplicity does not detract from its appeal; rather, it enhances the overall experience by allowing riders to fully appreciate the surrounding environment without the challenges of more rugged trails.
Activities Near the Cove Lake and Willow Bunch Trails
The areas around Cove Lake and Willow Bunch Trails offer a variety of outdoor activities, making them popular spots for nature lovers. Nearby lakes such as Snow Lake, Cove Lake, Jet Fox Lake, and many smaller lakes provide perfect settings for family camping and fishing. Cove Lake, located along the Cove Lake Trail, is a great place to stop for a picnic or to catch fish. Snow Lake and Jet Fox Lake are also popular for camping and fishing, offering beautiful and peaceful environments.
Many people rent UTVs to explore these trails and reach the lakes. UTVs make it easy to carry camping gear and fishing equipment, allowing families to enjoy a comfortable outdoor adventure. The smaller lakes scattered around the trails offer additional spots for fishing and relaxing, each with its own unique charm.
