Yellow Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) was created in 1946 to manage and conserve public lands in the United States. The organization took over the responsibilities that were initially executed by the General Land Office, created in 1812, and the U.S. Grazing Service, established in 1934. The BLM manages over one-tenth of America's land base and more than 700 million acres of subsurface mineral estates. Yellow Trail is one of the most popular BLM sites in Utah. It is a single trail that is popular among mountain bikers and hiking enthusiasts. The trail is pet-friendly, so you can bring your dogs and cats. However, you must always keep your pet on a leash. After you're done exploring the BLM areas around Yellow Trail, take a trip into Grand Canyon National Park, which is just south of the area. A little further away in California, Death Valley National Park is also worth a visit.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Yellow Trail

The Yellow Trail meanders through diverse ecosystems, such as grasslands and forests. This trail offers visitors unique views of geological formations like sandstone cliffs. Length: 0.54 miles Intensity: Difficult

White Trail

The White Trail is located about 2.4 miles from Yellow Trail. Some of the recreational activities you can engage in on this trail include horseback riding, hiking, and biking. Length: 3.09 miles Intensity: Easy

South Rim Trail

The South Rim Trail is an out-and-back trail characterized by well-maintained paths, plenty of birdwatching spots, and climbing areas. This trail also features beautiful sceneries that allow visitors to capture awe-inspiring photographs. Length: 5.9 miles Intensity: Moderate

North Rim Trail

The North Rim Trail is a single-track trail that has an elevation gain of about 403 feet. This trail is particularly famous for its rock formations, making it suitable for rock climbers. It is usually open all year round. Length: 1.4 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

About 61 miles from Yellow Trail is Dixie National Forest. The forest is known for its pristine lakes, most of which are excellent for fun water activities. Navajo Lake is one of the most popular lakes in the forest. The lake features crystal-clear blue waters and serene surroundings. Anglers can enjoy catching various fish species in Navajo Lake, including rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. Visitors can also swim in the lake. Other fishing spots in Dixie National Forest include Panguitch Lake, which is located in the southern part of the forest, Duck Creek Pond, Baker Reservoir, Kolob Reservoir, and Leeds Creek. You can also visit Quail Creek State Park, just outside the boundaries of Dixie National Forest, and enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing. The warm waters of Quail Creek are home to various fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie.

Climbing

The Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is located about 9.5 miles from Yellow Trail. This area covers around 45,000 acres and is the merging point for the Colorado Plateau, the Mojave Desert, and the Great Basin. Some of the climbing spots in this area include the Black Rocks, a collection of basalt cliffs that feature overhanging walls and interesting rock faces like slabs. These cliffs allow climbers to test their skills and enjoy scenic views when they climb to the top. Visitors who are into rock climbing can also enjoy climbing the nearby Chuckwalla Wall, Turtle Wall, and Zen Wall.

Wildlife Viewing

As visitors traverse Yellow Trail, they will likely spot some fascinating wildlife creatures like Gambel's quail, a unique bird characterized by a distinctive topknot plume and intricate patterning. Black-tailed jackrabbits and small animals like western whiptail lizards are also common in the area. You can also head to the Santa Clara River Reserve, about 7 miles from the Yellow Trail, for further wildlife viewing opportunities. This reserve has a diverse range of archeological resources and wildlife species. Some of the wild animals in the area include desert tortoises, desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, western diamondback rattlesnakes, and rare bird species like the great blue heron and the red-tailed hawk.

Picnicking

The Yellow Trail area boasts several scenic picnic spots to enhance your outdoor dining experience. Whether you prefer a shaded spot under the canopy of trees or a sunlit clearing with expansive views, there are a variety of options to suit your picnicking needs.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

There are numerous RV camping options near Yellow Trail. For starters, Red Cliffs Campground is a charming and inviting camping destination that offers convenient amenities like picnic tables, grills, and vault toilets. The campground is also pet-friendly and features 11 campsites with ample shades from mature cottonwood trees and willows found in the area. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views since the campground is surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty, including towering cliffs, scenic vistas, and vibrant desert flora. Guests can also enjoy fascinating historical views of dinosaurs' footprints, which are visible in the sandstones present in the area. History enthusiasts can also learn about the Puebloans, who were among the area's first inhabitants. Another excellent camping destination is Baker Dam Campground. This campground is situated about 28 miles from Yellow Trail. It features 19 campsites and charges a $12 overnight fee and a $5 daily fee. The campground has an elevation gain of about 5,000 feet, making it suitable for climbing and hiking enthusiasts. It also features recreational areas like the Baker Dam Reservoir, where visitors can go fishing. The campground also has picnic tables and fire pits with grills but does not offer water and electricity hookups. RV owners can stay at the campground for a maximum of 14 days.

Free Camping

If you are a fan of dispersed camping, State Hollow State Park is one of the best options in Utah. It is located about 9.8 miles from the Yellow Trail and has over 60 primitive camping sites that offer vault toilets as the only amenity. This state park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so ensure you make early reservations.

RV Rentals Near Yellow Trail Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Yellow Trail BLM trip

The Yellow Trail hardly has any water points, so it's important to carry water when visiting the area. The temperature along the trail is highest in June, July, and August, with temperatures averaging around 31 degrees Celsius. The trail is wettest and muddy in February, making biking and hiking extremely difficult. As a result, it is best to schedule your visit around March when it's dry. Temperatures can also go as low as five degrees Celsius during winter, so it's important to ensure you are warm if you hike and camp in the area during this period. You should also consider getting a trail map in print or digital format and study the key landmarks and waypoints to help you navigate the trail more confidently, thus ensuring you do not get lost. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping. You will also get information regarding trail closures, maintenance work, or potential hazards like fallen trees or rockslides.

Leave No Trace

BLM regulations require visitors to choose appropriate camping equipment that is lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly. Visitors must also ensure they set up their camping tents at least 200 feet from water sources like lakes, rivers, and streams. Also, you should make sure you dispose of waste and food correctly. Additionally, avoid damaging trees, plants, and fragile ecosystems. You can protect the surrounding ecosystem by staying on designated paths, which prevents you from trampling on vegetation. Also, avoid carving or marking trees and do not interfere with the archaeological sites, artifacts, and historic structures situated along the Yellow Trail. Lastly, minimize fire impacts by only using designated fire rings or pans whenever possible. In addition, make sure you extinguish any fires you had built before leaving the site. "Leave No Trace" are the guiding principles to ensure our lands are protected.

Yellow Trail Location

To get to the Yellow Trail from St. George City, travel north through Interstate 15. Stay on the lookout for Exit 16 to Hurricane City, and then turn right. Continue for a short distance, and then take the first left onto State Route 59. Turn left again onto Smithsonian Butte National Backcountry Byway, and drive for 2.8 miles on SR 59. Turn left and drive for 3.3 miles to reach the Gooseberry Trailhead. Lastly, travel 1.3 miles west of the Gooseberry Trailhead to arrive at the White Trailhead. Address: 353 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790 Ready to visit the Yellow Trail? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll also have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.