Behind the Reef Trail

Facility ·

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management

The State of Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration 1937 (State Trust Lands) · Open Access

5,318 ft
Elevation

One of the BLM’s highlighted OHV/ATV trails within the San Rafael Swell this area provides a challenging off highway adventure and launching point for a variety of recreation activities. Jeepers, UTV’s, ATV’s, Mountain Bikes and hikers can all find their niche in this area. The main Behind the Reef trail turns into a 52 inch or less trail that exits around the Hidden Splendor Mine area while other routes provide recreational opportunities for all types of user groups. Please plan ahead this trail is difficult in rating and is located in a remote location with limited cell service available. Dispersed camping and hiking opportunities can be found throughout this area. The Behind the Reef trailhead is located on the west side of the San Rafael Reef.

Getting there

From Hwy 24, turn onto the Goblin Valley/Temple Mountain Road. Instead of turning down to Goblin Valley, continue west through the Reef. As you come out on the west side of the Reef you'll see a well maintained road heading south marked as the Behind the Reef Road. Drive south on that road approximately 6 miles to the trailhead parking area, kiosk and registry box.

38.57369, -110.90745 · 38°34'25.3"N 110°54'26.8"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 95°F in Jul, down to 41°F in Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F414759667689959284685341
Low °F172330374755636151392618
Precip in0.50.60.80.71.00.50.80.90.91.20.50.4

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 10.8 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Member photos

Common questions about Behind the Reef Trail

Can you reserve a site at Behind the Reef Trail?
No. Behind the Reef Trail is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.

Camping near Behind the Reef Trail

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-04-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.