Overview
The Wasatch Plateau Skyline Trail follows the high crest of the Wasatch Plateau, which forms the western backbone of the Manti unit of Manti-La Sal National Forest. This is big-sky ridge walking: the plateau is broad enough that the trail feels more like hiking a high-mountain grassland than a narrow ridgeline. The views extend east across the Book Cliffs toward the San Rafael Swell and west toward the distant Wasatch Range.
Unlike most trails that require a significant climb to reach the ridge, Skyline Drive accesses the plateau directly, making the Skyline Trail an unusually accessible piece of high-elevation terrain. The trade-off is that the roadway follows the ridge too, meaning the trail and the road share the same plateau crest. For anyone who prefers true backcountry solitude, the feeder trails that descend into the canyon systems below the plateau deliver that experience.
The Route
South Trailhead to First High Point (Miles 0-3.2) The southern section of the trail travels through high-elevation grass and sagebrush meadows with scattered aspen groves. The grade is nearly flat, with the trail following the plateau rim closely enough to deliver views east on most clear days. The first notable high point comes at mile 3.2, where the plateau rim curves and an informal viewpoint looks directly into the upper Price River drainage.
Central Ridge Section (Miles 3.2-7.0) The middle section of the trail is the most consistently scenic, traversing wide-open grasslands above 10,500 feet. Elk are frequently seen here in morning hours. A series of shallow seasonal ponds in this section attract waterfowl. The Skyline Drive is visible and audible on the right side throughout this section.
North Section and Terminus (Miles 7.0-10.4) The final miles descend gradually north through aspen and mixed conifer before reaching the north trailhead. The aspen zones in this section offer the best fall color on the trail, typically peaking in late September to early October.
When to Hike
June opens the trail once Skyline Drive is plowed, usually by early June. The plateau can still have patches of wet soil in early season.
July through August the plateau is reliably dry and trail conditions are excellent. Start before 9 a.m. to be well positioned on open terrain before afternoon thunderstorms develop.
September and October are the best months for this trail. Fall color peaks in early October, and the plateau grasslands turn amber and gold in October's lower light.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water since there are no reliable water sources on the plateau ridge. A rain layer is important for afternoon thunderstorm season. Sunscreen and a hat are essential on the exposed terrain. Individual water needs vary based on the summer heat and individual pace.
Trailhead Access
Multiple access points exist along Skyline Drive (Forest Road 150), which runs the length of the plateau. The primary day-hiking trailhead is near the Huntington Canyon end of Skyline Drive. No permit or fee is required as of 2026. Dogs are welcome on leash. Vault toilets are available at the main access points. Skyline Drive is unpaved north of the pavement segment and may be soft after rain.
Nearby
The Wasatch Plateau Dark Canyon Overlook descends off the eastern rim of the plateau for canyon views. The Ferron Canyon Hike drops into one of the canyon systems below the plateau's east face. Review current conditions before heading out: /learn/checking-conditions-before-you-go. Follow Leave No Trace on this open terrain: /learn/leave-no-trace-7-principles.