State: Utah
Location: Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Length, One-Way: 8 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Elevation Change: 3300 feet
Best Season: Summer, Fall
Difficulty: Most Difficult
Usage: Light
Canyon Lands Park, Utah
Trail Information
The Wellsville Mountains Wilderness encompasses extremely rugged and picturesque terrain, mountains among the highest on earth rising from such a narrow base which spreads out no more than one mile in places. Of the Wellsville Mountains the Forestry Service says this is “the steepest range in the United States.” The tallest summits are Wellsville Cone at 9,356 feet and Box Elder Peak at 9,372 feet.
From the Deep Canyon Trailhead, the Deep Canyon Trail ascends rapidly and steadily for about three miles to the divide of the Wellsville Mountains at around 8,100 feet. The total elevation gain for the ascent is nearly 3,000 feet.
Once you have climbed to the ridge, keep an eye out for hawks. This range reportedly has more raptors during migratory season than any other in America. This is also one of the best places in Utah to get an overview of the northern region of the state. To the west, the meandering Bear River is clearly visible.
The Deep Canyon Trail follows the crest of the divide south to Stewart Pass, around Mendon Peak and Scout Peak, and can be followed down the ridge line for two miles to Box Elder Peak, the high point, and on down to the Rattle Snake Trail. From Stewart Pass, the Coldwater Lake Trail descends; knee-bustingly steep for about 1.5 miles to a tiny spot of water called Coldwater Lake. From there, it’s less than a mile to the mouth of Coldwater Canyon, but a long hike back to the Deep Canyon Trailhead. This is great trail to have a vehicle at both ends and do as a shuttle.
Directions
From Mendon, UT:
Follow Utah 23 north of Wellsville. Turn west on Third North Street and drive about two miles to the Deep Canyon Trailhead.
