Bean Hill: Driving the 1,130m Climb in Iron County
Reaching an elevation of 2,771m (9,091ft) above sea level, Bean Hill is a high mountain peak in Iron County, southwestern Utah. Located within the rugged terrain of the Dixie National Forest area, the climb to the summit is a sustained test of vehicle endurance and traction on remote forest service tracks.
| Road facts: Bean Hill | |
|---|---|
| Location | Iron County, Utah, USA |
| Elevation | 2,771 m (9,091 ft) |
| Length | 16.6 km (10.3 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 1,130 meters |
| Avg Gradient | 6.80% |
How is the road to Bean Hill?
The ascent starts from Kanarraville and covers 16.6 km (10.3 miles). The road is entirely unpaved, consisting of a mix of graded dirt and loose volcanic rock. With a total elevation gain of 1,130 meters and an average gradient of 6.80%, the climb is constant and demanding. While the average grade is manageable, several sections are much steeper, requiring a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle to navigate deep ruts and washouts that are common in this part of southwestern Utah.
Can you drive to Bean Hill in wet conditions?
No. The dirt on this route contains high clay content, which turns into impassable "grease" mud after even moderate rainfall. Attempting this climb when wet will likely result in getting stuck, as tires cannot find traction on the steep inclines. Additionally, the road is blocked by snow for much of the winter and spring. Before departing, check the local conditions in Iron County; the track is best tackled during the dry summer months when the ground is hard-packed.
What are the main hazards on the Kanarraville route?
The primary hazards are technical terrain and total isolation. The track is narrow, often reduced to a single lane with very few passing pockets. Because it is a remote forest road, maintenance is infrequent, and fallen rocks or deep washboard sections can appear without warning. There are no safety barriers, and the higher sections feature steep, unprotected drops. At 2,771 meters, your engine will experience a significant drop in power, so monitoring your temperature gauge during the 1,130m climb is critical to avoid overheating.
Logistics and Equipment
There are no services, fuel, or water once you leave Kanarraville. Mobile signal is non-existent in the canyons and very spotty at the summit. Ensure you carry a full-size spare tire and basic recovery gear, as the sharp rocks in Iron County are notorious for sidewall punctures. Due to the difficulty of navigating the ruts and identifying the edge of the track, driving this road at night is extremely dangerous and should be avoided.