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Mount Elmer Trail

Cache National Forest, Utah · 3 min read

Distance
7.2 mi
Elevation Gain
2,200 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through October
Est. Time
4-6 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
None
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Summit views of Logan Canyon and Cache Valley from nearly 9,700 feet
  • One of the more challenging peaks in the Bear River Range
  • Limestone ridge with dramatic cliff formations near the summit
  • Solitary trail with far fewer visitors than the Tony Grove area
  • Access to the extended Bear River Range ridge system
viewssummit

Overview

Mount Elmer rises from the limestone ridges of Logan Canyon in Cache National Forest, offering one of the more demanding and solitary summit hikes in the northern Wasatch. The 7.2-mile out-and-back gains 2,200 feet from the Sink Hollow Trailhead to a summit at approximately 9,660 feet with outstanding views of Logan Canyon, Cache Valley, and the Bear River Range.

The trail is considered strenuous, with sustained climbing through aspen and conifer forest before emerging onto the open limestone ridge. The upper sections involve some route-finding on faint trail across rocky terrain, making this a better choice for experienced hikers comfortable with basic navigation.

The Bear River Ridge Trail in the same area offers a loop alternative for those who prefer not to retrace steps.

The Route

From the Sink Hollow Trailhead, the trail climbs steadily through dense forest for the first two miles. A trail junction at the ridge top requires staying right to continue toward the summit. The ridge walk to the summit covers about a mile of open terrain with increasingly expansive views.

The summit area is rocky and exposed. On a clear day, the Great Salt Lake is visible to the southwest and the Bear Lake basin to the northeast.

When to Visit

July through October is the reliable window. Snow can persist on north-facing slopes into early July. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in midsummer; an early start is advisable. Fall visits in September and October offer great weather and near-empty trails.

Practical Details

No facilities at the Sink Hollow Trailhead. Carry all water from home. Dispersed camping is permitted on Cache National Forest lands away from the trailhead. Review Leave No Trace principles before visiting. The 10 Essentials are important on this more remote route.

Getting There

From Logan, drive east on US-89 through Logan Canyon. Approximately 12 miles from the canyon mouth, watch for the Sink Hollow pullout on the north side of the highway. The trailhead is not prominently signed; a GPS waypoint is helpful.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Trailhead Parking

Sink Hollow Trailhead in Logan Canyon (US-89), about 12 miles east of Logan. Small dirt pullout. No fee.

← Back to Cache National Forest

More Trails in Cache National Forest

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Bear River Ridge Trail

8.4 mi1,800 ft gain
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Explore the Bear River Ridge Trail in Cache National Forest, Utah. This strenuous 8.4-mile loop rewards hikers with panoramic Wasatch Range views, summer wildflowers, and wildlife.

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Dry Canyon Trail

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Hike Dry Canyon Trail in Cache National Forest, Utah. This moderate-hard 6.0-mile out-and-back climbs through a limestone canyon with Cache Valley views and spring wildflowers.

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Jardine Juniper Trail

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Hike to the Jardine Juniper in Cache National Forest, Utah. This moderate-hard 4.4-mile out-and-back visits one of the world's oldest Rocky Mountain junipers, estimated at 1,500 years old.

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Naomi Peak Trail

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Hike to Naomi Peak, the highest point in Cache National Forest, Utah. This strenuous 6.4-mile out-and-back reaches 9,980 feet with views spanning Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming.

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Steam Mill Lake Loop

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Hike the Steam Mill Lake Loop in Cache National Forest, Utah. This moderate 5.6-mile loop visits a scenic backcountry lake through wildlife-rich aspen and conifer forest.

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Temple Fork Trail

5.2 mi900 ft gain
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Walk the Temple Fork Trail in Cache National Forest, Utah. This moderate 5.2-mile out-and-back follows a scenic canyon stream through riparian habitat with wildlife and wildflowers.

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Tony Grove Lake Trail

1.8 mi300 ft gain
July through October

Walk the Tony Grove Lake Trail in Cache National Forest, Utah. This easy 1.8-mile out-and-back visits a stunning alpine lake at 8,050 feet surrounded by wildflowers and limestone peaks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Mount Elmer Trail?
Mount Elmer is considered strenuous. The 7.2-mile out-and-back gains 2,200 feet with the steepest sections on the upper ridge. No technical terrain is required.
Is the Mount Elmer Trail well-marked?
The lower sections follow a clear trail, but the upper ridge can be faint. A map and basic navigation skills are helpful. Download the route before you go.
Are there water sources on the trail?
No reliable water sources are on the route. Carry all water from the trailhead.
What wildlife might I see on Mount Elmer?
Mule deer, yellow-bellied marmots, and pikas are commonly spotted in the rocky upper sections. Raptors including golden eagles sometimes soar the ridge.