Mayfield-Gunnison Road, Birch Creek Trail, and Giant Aspen Trails
Nestled near the charming town of Mayfield, Utah, the Mayfield-Gunnison Trails are integral parts of the expansive Arapeen OHV Trails system. These trails offer a mix of easy and moderate routes, making them accessible to a broad range of off-highway vehicle enthusiasts.
The proximity to Mayfield ensures that riders can easily access the trails and enjoy the diverse landscapes and unique experiences that each trail provides. Whether you are a novice rider looking for a leisurely adventure or a more experienced enthusiast seeking moderate challenges, these trails near Mayfield deliver an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Getting there
The Mayfield-Gunnison Road starts at Mayfield small town which is near the Arapeen OHV Trails. The starting point of this trail is near the North Hallow lakes 39.107410, -111.669605. Those lakes are on the exit of Mayfield town. After less than a mile you need to turn left on this point 39.109141, -111.617603 to continue on Birch Creek Trail. This trail is short but it’s much difficult than the Mayfield Gunnison Trail. Near the end of Mayfield Gunnison Road on this point 39.142756, -111.528539 on your left side you will find the Giant Aspen Trail. This trail is also small but a little bit more difficult than the others.
To better navigate and find your wanted trails please make sure to check the OnX Maps and drive the Mayfield-Gunnison Trails.
Terrain Difficulty
The Mayfield-Gunnison Road is a well-maintained, two-lane gravel road. It has some steep grades and may have shallow water crossings in bad weather. Overall, it is accessible for most vehicles.
The Birch Creek Trail is very rocky and rutted with loose rocks, erosion, and off-camber sections. There are tree roots, fallen trees up to 1 foot tall, ledges, and short, steep grades. Minimal water crossings are possible. This trail is suited for experienced riders.
The Giant Aspen Trail is very rocky and rutted with loose rocks and off-camber sections. It has obstacles up to 1.5 feet tall, small washes, and short, steep grades. It can become slick and difficult in bad weather. This trail is recommended for seasoned riders.
Surface
The trails around Mayfield offer diverse surface types, enhancing the riding experience. The Mayfield-Gunnison Road features a well-maintained gravel surface, providing a smooth ride with good traction. While generally stable, riders should be cautious of loose gravel on steep grades or sharp turns, especially in bad weather, which can cause shallow water crossings.
In contrast, the Birch Creek Trail and Giant Aspen Trail have primarily dirt surfaces, offering a rugged and natural riding experience. These trails are rocky and rutted, with loose rocks, exposed tree roots, and natural obstacles like fallen trees and ledges. Weather significantly affects dirt trails; dry conditions make them dusty, while wet conditions make them muddy and slick, increasing the difficulty. These trails are best suited for experienced riders seeking technical challenges.
Accessibly By
The Mayfield-Gunnison Road is a full-width road, accessible to a wide range of vehicles including larger UTVs and trucks. The Birch Creek Trail is designed for smaller UTVs, with a width of 50 inches, making it suitable for more compact and agile vehicles. The Giant Aspen Trail accommodates slightly larger UTVs, with a width of 60 inches, providing a balance between accessibility and the challenge of navigating narrower, rugged terrain.
Best Times to Ride
The best times to ride the Mayfield-Gunnison Trails are during fall, summer, and spring, each offering unique conditions and experiences.
Fall is ideal for riding due to the cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage, especially on the Giant Aspen Trails. The vibrant colors and active wildlife make for an unforgettable experience.
Summer offers long daylight hours and warm weather, perfect for family outings and group rides. The higher elevations provide a cool escape, and the trails are lush and green with blooming wildflowers.
Spring brings new growth and flowing streams, creating a refreshing and scenic environment. The trails are less crowded, and the blooming wildflowers and returning migratory birds add to the beauty. Riders should be mindful of possible muddy conditions from snowmelt.
Each season offers something special, making these trails near Mayfield enjoyable year-round.
Mayfield Gunnison Road
The Mayfield-Gunnison Trail, located near the town of Mayfield, is the main access road to Mayfield Canyon. This well-maintained, wide gravel road allows for two-way traffic and features plenty of primitive camping spots along the way, complete with multiple bathrooms maintained by the forest service. As you travel the 17-mile-long trail, you’ll pass through beautiful landscapes filled with pine, aspen, and cedar trees, along with various grasses, providing incredible views, especially as you gain elevation. The area is teeming with wildlife, including elk, deer, bear, and cougar. Additionally, there are numerous small lakes and hiking trails accessible from the road, enhancing the outdoor experience. This easy-to-navigate trail also connects with both the Birch Creek Trail and Giant Aspen Trail, making it a vital route for exploring the region.
Birch Creek Trail
The Birch Creek Trail is a 3-mile-long moderate trail that offers a rich outdoor experience for those seeking adventure in the Manti-LaSal National Forest. Accessible by smaller UTVs, this trail is perfect for riders looking for a bit of a challenge without being too demanding. The Birch Creek Trail connects with the Mayfield-Gunnison Trail, providing seamless access to a broader network of trails.
The trail features several camping spots and hiking trails, making it an excellent destination for extended stays and exploration. As you navigate this scenic route, you’ll be surrounded by pine, aspen, and cedar trees, interspersed with vibrant wildflowers, brush, and grasses.
Giant Aspen Trail
The Giant Aspen Trail is a short but rewarding 2-mile ride through a beautiful aspen grove. This unmaintained trail can be challenging to traverse, especially in inclement weather, making it difficult for beginners. The trail’s rugged terrain, with its rocks and roots, requires careful navigation and skill.
Connected with the Mayfield-Gunnison Trail, the Giant Aspen Trail offers a scenic detour for those looking to experience the stunning beauty of an aspen forest. While the trail’s difficulty level may deter less experienced riders, it provides an excellent adventure for those up to the challenge.
Activities in this area
The Mayfield-Gunnison Trails offer a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby small lakes and numerous camping spots enhancing the experience.
Camping is popular along all three trails, with many primitive campsites available. The Mayfield-Gunnison Road features well-maintained camping areas with facilities such as bathrooms provided by the forest service, making it an excellent base for exploring the trails.
Hiking opportunities abound, with numerous smaller trails branching off into the scenic landscapes of the Manti-LaSal National Forest. These trails cater to all skill levels, with lush forests of pine, aspen, and cedar, along with vibrant wildflowers and grasses.
Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the small lakes near the trails, offering excellent fishing opportunities in a serene setting.
Wildlife watching is rewarding, with diverse habitats supporting elk, deer, bear, cougar, and various bird species, especially during migration periods.
ATV and UTV riding is a primary activity on these trails. The Mayfield-Gunnison Road’s well-maintained gravel surface, the moderate challenges of the Birch Creek Trail, and the rugged terrain of the Giant Aspen Trail provide unique riding experiences for all levels.
