Is the Forest Road 0161 in Utah's Manti-La Sal National Forest difficult?
Forest Road 0161 is a high-altitude mountain track reaching an elevation of 3,288 meters (10,787 ft) above sea level, located in Sanpete County, in the US state of Utah. Running along a high ridge within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, it is one of the highest roads in Utah.
| Road facts: Forest Road 0161 | |
|---|---|
| Location | Sanpete County, Utah (USA) |
| Max Elevation | 3,288 m (10,787 ft) |
| Length | 6.75 km (4.2 miles) |
| Surface | Unpaved (Dirt, grass, and rocks) |
How long is Forest Road 0161?
The track spans 6.75 kilometers (4.2 miles) starting from its junction with Forest Road 150 (Skyline Drive). Progress along this 4.2-mile stretch is slow. At nearly 3,300 meters, the thin air reduces engine power, forcing the vehicle to work harder on the climbs. The route runs along an exposed mountain crest where afternoon rainstorms can quickly turn the dry dirt into a thick mud track.
What are the road conditions on FR 0161?
The surface is completely unpaved, consisting of hard-packed earth, loose gravel, and overgrown grass. The track lacks drainage channels, so rain and melting snow carve deep, sharp ruts across the path. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is required to clear the exposed rocks and washouts without hitting the undercarriage or damaging the suspension.
Is Forest Road 0161 open in winter?
No. Snow buries the high ridges of Sanpete County, making the road completely impassable from October to late June. Even during the summer months, the track should only be driven when dry. The high clay content in the soil turns into a slick grease when wet, causing tires to lose traction on the slopes. Early autumn blizzards are common at this altitude.
What gear is needed to drive Forest Road 0161?
Before turning off Skyline Drive, check your vehicle's tire pressure and cooling system, as high altitude makes engines run hotter under load. Carry basic recovery tools, including a shovel and traction boards, to clear deep ruts or mud patches in shaded forest areas. There are no gas stations or towns in this section of the Manti-La Sal range, so ensure you have enough fuel before starting the drive.
Pic: Shannon Bushman