Driving the NF-281 to the summit of High Mountain in Utah
High Mountain is a high-altitude peak reaching an elevation of 3,030m (9,940ft) above sea level, located in Iron County, Utah. Sitting in the southwestern part of the state, this summit is part of the high-elevation plateaus that define the landscape near the Great Basin, offering a raw and windy driving experience.
The mountain is situated within the Dixie National Forest, an area famous for its dramatic red rock formations and high alpine meadows. The most striking feature of reaching the top is the awesome views of Cedar Breaks National Monument. From this height, you can see the massive natural amphitheater, with its eroded limestone canyons and vibrant colors, from a perspective very few tourists ever get to see.
| Road facts: High Mountain | |
|---|---|
| Location | Iron County, Utah (USA) |
| Elevation | 3,030 m (9,940 ft) |
| Road Name | Forest Service Road 281 (NF-281) |
| Length | 1.6 km (1.0 mile) |
| Average Gradient | 5.25% |
| Surface | Gravel and Rocky |
How is the drive on Forest Service Road 281?
The road to the summit, the NF-281, is a short spur that branches off from the main forest tracks in the area. It is only 1.6 km (1.0 mile) long, but don't let the distance fool you. Starting from the base of the final climb, you gain 84 meters in elevation with an average gradient of 5.25%. While the incline isn't extreme, the combination of the loose, rocky surface and the thin air at 3,000 meters makes the engine work harder than usual.
The track is unpaved, consisting of a mix of gravel and embedded rocks that can be quite "bumpy" and "tippy" in several sections. A 4x4 vehicle with decent ground clearance is required, as the ruts can get deep after summer thunderstorms. The trail is narrow and exposed, so if you are scared of heights, the final stretch toward the summit ridge will definitely get your attention. In wet conditions, the dirt turns into a sticky mud that can make traction very difficult, even for experienced wheelers.
When is High Mountain accessible?
Because of its extreme elevation, High Mountain is impassable for most of the year. Snow stays on these high Utah plateaus from October until well into June or even July. The best time to attempt the drive is during the peak of summer, when the road is dry and the wildflowers in the Dixie National Forest are in bloom. Always keep an eye on the weather; afternoon thunderstorms are common in Iron County and can turn a simple rocky trail into a dangerous muddy mess in minutes. This is a remote spot, so make sure your vehicle is prepared for the high-altitude environment before heading up to catch those views of Cedar Breaks.
Pic: Dave Stillman