| The Skyline Trail is one of the most heavily used trails in the Ogden area. The northern portion is very popular among hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and motorcyclists, especially on weekends and holidays. Local flora and fauna highlight the route. The trail provides spectacular views of the Ogden area, from Willard to Antelope Island. It is an outstanding area to view wildflowers and fall colors. The area offers some of the world's oldest geologic formations. Willard and Ben Lomond Peaks are part of the Wasatch Fault and many fault lines run through the area. The shorelines of ancient Lake Bonneville can easily be seen from a distance. The higher bench is known as the Bonneville Terrace and the lower bench is called the Provo Terrace.Northern Skyline Trail: this portion of the trail is 11.4 miles long. The trail climbs to the summit of 9,712 Ben Lomond then along a ridge to Willard Peak. There is parking and restrooms at the trailhead.Willard Basin to Ben Lomond Peak: To reach Willard Basin, travel the dirt road south from Mantua 9.5 miles to the end of the road. The trail begins at Willard Basin and goes west across the ridge to the west side of Ben Lomond Peak.Southern Skyline Trail: the 12 miles of the southern Skyline portion of the trail is heavily used on weekends and holidays but not during the week. A side trail leads to Lewis Peak which is lesser in stature compared to the rugged Ben Lomond Peak but the climb is just as exhaustive. During mid-summer you'll want to get an early start as the trail's southern exposure and scant forest coverage can make for a warm climb.The trail begins with a steep incline and switchbacks take you from overlooks of Pineview Reservoir to Ogden Canyon's limestone formations. About 2.0 miles from Pineview is a very short spur to the right and leads to Lookout Point. At mile 3.0 there are outstanding views of farm and ranch lands in Ogden Valley. The trail curves northeasterly into thick foliage offering some comforting shade. Near mile 5.0 the trail crosses between Goodall Canyon above Ogden Canyon and the head of Nordic Valley Ski Area. The trail to Lewis Peak (8,031 feet) is 2.5 miles one-way from the Skyline Trail and is well worth the effort. Return back to the Pineview trailhead or alternately follow the ridge north toward North Ogden Pass. It is 5.3 miles along the ridge line northward then down to North Ogden Pass. Park a vehicle at North Ogden Divide if you do not plan to hike the 9.5 miles back to Pineview trailhead. The trailhead also offers a horse loading ramp. |
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