Island in the Sky Trail

Island in the Sky Trail is a Dixie National Forest route that climbs steeply through mixed conifer, aspen, and open meadows to connect with the Great Western Trail. It's a distinct trail from the better-known Island in the Sky district at Canyonlands National Park near Moab — this one is Bryce-area backcountry, not a park destination.

Route notes

• Rated moderate for hikers and horseback riders, but difficult for mountain bikers given the steep grade
• Sections can be hard to follow — watch for cairns and blazes marking the way through the timber
• No water available along the trail, and mosquitoes are heavy in spring and early summer, so pack repellent and long sleeves

Weather changes quickly at elevation here, and cold conditions are possible any time of year. As a national forest trail feeding into the Great Western Trail system, expect multi-use traffic and dog-friendly, dispersed-camping norms rather than park rules.