Jimmy Keene Miner's Basin Figure 8

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Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildflowers

You'll be in awe with the sights on this hike. Views of the spires of Castle Valley and the peaks of the LaSal mountains will keep you entranced as you hike from the desert to the mountains in the 8,000 ft elevation change over the course of this figure eight loop.

If doing this loop in the summer or early fall bring plenty of water as it will get very hot. The Jimmy Keen trail is open exposed to the direct sun. This is another popular mountain bike trail in the area be aware of other users!

This hike starts on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road. You'll head west on the road to reach the Jimmy Keen trail. This trail twists and turns and has some short and mellow climbs. Unlike most Moab area trails, there are not a lot of rocks so you don't have to worry as much about your footing, and instead can enjoy this first section as a nice warmup.

Jimmy Keen loops around and intersects with the Kokopelli Trail #634. Take a right on Kokepelli Trail to head back to Loop Road. When you get back to the road, go east to reach Miner's Basin Road (FS#065) which you'll hike to reach the Miner's Basin Trail. As with other FS roads in the area, there are some great views of Castle Valley from Miner's Basin Road. Miner's Basin Road and Miner's Basin Trail is a grueling climb of almost 1,800 feet. of elevation gain in three miles!

From the end of the road, continue onto Miner's Basin Trail which is where you'll start a steady climb from 8,000 ft. to 10,780 ft. in just over six miles. Continue on the Miner's Basin Trail to Warner Lake Rd to reach the Hazzard County trailhead. From here, hike the Hazzard County trail back to the start.

Groves of large aspen trees. Wildflowers abound in the summer and fall color views are amazing. You might see mule deer, elk, and black bear. Be aware that rattlesnakes are common on the Jimmy Keen trail.

The La Sal mountains and surrounding areas are rich in historical significance. There are amazing geologic formations, dinosaur fossils, cave and rock drawings, and remnants of the American settlers to the region. Search Emery County, Utah for more information.