Overview
Thunder Mountain Loop covers 15.7 miles through Red Canyon in Dixie National Forest, following singletrack and dirt road trails through some of the most photogenic hoodoo terrain in southern Utah outside of Bryce Canyon National Park. The trailhead sits directly off Scenic Byway 12, making this one of the most accessible long loops in the region.
The trail is USFS Trail #33098, managed by the Powell Ranger District of Dixie National Forest. It is multi-use - hikers and mountain bikers share the trail, with mountain biking being the more common use on this particular route. Both groups find it worthwhile: the terrain rewards sustained effort with constant geological variety, and the 1,801 feet of elevation gain is distributed across the full 15.7 miles in a way that keeps the difficulty in the moderate range despite the distance.
The Red Canyon geology is the same Pink Cliffs formation visible in Bryce Canyon National Park to the east. Hoodoos, arches, and narrow fins of orange, red, and white limestone appear throughout the loop. The lack of a park entrance fee and smaller crowds than the national park make this a genuine alternative for visitors who want canyon country hiking without the Bryce logistics.
The Route
Miles 0 to 4: Trailhead to Upper Section. The loop begins at the Thunder Mountain Trailhead off UT-12 and climbs steadily through hoodoo terrain. The first four miles include the bulk of the elevation gain, with consistent views into the canyon country on both sides. The singletrack surface is mostly smooth hard-packed dirt with short steeper rocky sections.
Miles 4 to 11: Upper Traverse. After the initial climb, the trail traverses through the upper section of the loop through alternating canyon views and forest sections. This is the longest continuous stretch and the terrain becomes more varied - some sections open onto broad views, others run through narrow passages between formations.
Miles 11 to 15.7: Coyote Hollow Road to Finish. The descent from the upper loop follows Coyote Hollow Road down to Scenic Byway 12, then returns along the highway corridor to the starting trailhead. This road section is a contrast to the singletrack upper loop - less technical but still scenic. The route rejoins the trailhead at UT-12.
When to Visit
May through October is the main season. The Red Canyon area sits at roughly 7,000-7,900 feet elevation, which keeps temperatures moderate compared to the lower canyon country. May and June offer green vegetation and wildflowers. July and August bring afternoon thunderstorms - common in southern Utah's monsoon season - so morning starts are advisable. September and October are often excellent, with cooling temperatures and reduced crowds.
What to Bring
For a 15.7-mile day with no water sources on the route, many hikers carry:
- 2-3 liters of water (no reliable water sources on the trail; carry all you need)
- Food for a full day
- Sun protection (much of the trail is exposed)
- Layers for morning and afternoon temperature changes
- Trekking poles (helpful for the sustained initial climb and final descent)
Dogs are welcome on leash. The exposed terrain has minimal shade; hot days require extra water for dogs.
Practical Details
No permit or fee is required to hike the Thunder Mountain Loop (as of 2026). The trail is managed by the Powell Ranger District of Dixie National Forest. Dogs must be on leash.
The trailhead parking area is free and accessible from UT-12. The Red Canyon Visitor Center a short distance west on UT-12 has restrooms during operating hours (typically May through September) and exhibits on the Red Canyon geology.
The America the Beautiful Pass covers fee sites in the Red Canyon area. Veterans may qualify for free passes; see the veteran benefits guide.
Getting There
The Thunder Mountain Trailhead is off Scenic Byway 12 (UT-12) approximately 2.5 miles east of the junction with US-89, south of Panguitch. Look for the gravel pull-in on the right near the "Dixie National Forest" sign.
From Cedar City, take I-15 north briefly to US-20, then east on US-20 to US-89 south, then east on UT-12 (approximately 1 hour). From Bryce Canyon National Park, drive west on UT-12 approximately 10 miles to the trailhead. From Salt Lake City, take I-15 south to US-89 south, then east on UT-12 (approximately 3.5 hours).