Smithsonian Butte Road OHV Trail

The ideal times to hike this trail are during the spring and fall months. Temperatures are more moderate, making the long distance and elevation changes more manageable. Summer can be extremely hot, and after heavy rains, the road can become impassable due to deep mud and slick sections, making it dangerous.

The trail primarily follows a 9.25-mile dirt and gravel road, which is often used by OHVs. Hikers should expect rough, rocky, and sandy sections, with some areas described as washboarded. There are steep grades, particularly on the ascent from the Virgin River basin, reaching up to 11 degrees. The variable surface and length contribute to its moderately challenging nature for hikers.

Parking is available at various points along the byway. Since it's a long route, you can find roadside parking where appropriate, especially near trailheads for more remote campsites and scenic overlooks. Be mindful of any posted regulations regarding parking on BLM land.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Smithsonian Butte Road OHV Trail, as it is primarily on BLM land. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste. Regulations may differ if you venture onto adjacent private land or into specific wilderness areas.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Smithsonian Butte Road OHV Trail itself, as it is located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. This is one of its advantages compared to nearby national parks. However, if you plan to access specific wilderness areas or other trails that require permits, always check local regulations.

Hikers can expect spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Zion Valley and its majestic mountains. The scenery transitions from the Virgin River floodplain through pinyon-juniper woodlands to sagebrush desert. Key visual highlights include Smithsonian Butte, Eagle Crags, the Vermillion Cliffs within the Canaan Mountain Wilderness, and the iconic sandstone pinnacles of Zion National Park. It's also known for peaceful solitude and amazing stargazing at night.

While the main byway is long and moderately challenging, there are roadside hiking trailheads that lead to more remote campsites and scenic overlooks. These shorter, less strenuous options might be more suitable for families. Always research specific side trails for their length and difficulty before heading out.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of trails such as "Show Me the Money" and "More Money". It also provides access to other popular areas like Gooseberry Mesa, which is known for its mountain biking and off-roading trails.

The Smithsonian Butte Road offers views of the Vermillion Cliffs within the Canaan Mountain Wilderness. This is a designated wilderness area, meaning it has stricter regulations regarding motorized vehicles, group sizes, and Leave No Trace principles. While the byway itself is not within the wilderness, be aware of its proximity and respect any wilderness boundaries and regulations if you plan to explore off the main road. Generally, no fees are required for day use, but specific activities or overnight stays might have different rules.

Beyond the stunning views, a notable feature is its proximity to the historic Grafton Ghost Town, accessible via a side road near Rockville. This well-preserved site has been used as a set for Hollywood films. The byway also offers views of the mountain used for the Red Bull Rampage Bicycle Championships and provides opportunities for free dispersed camping in designated BLM areas, offering a quiet alternative to more crowded areas.

Hiking this trail offers a unique experience with diverse terrain and breathtaking scenery, often providing a more solitary experience compared to the crowded areas of Zion National Park. It's a long, moderately challenging walk due to its length and variable surface, but rewards hikers with spectacular 360-degree panoramic views, including Zion Valley and its majestic mountains. It's considered a 'locals only' spot for its quiet beauty and serves as a scenic shortcut to Zion.