This hike takes you through tall pine, spruce and fir until you reach a marshy meadow. From the trailhead, be prepared to share the route with horses and mules. At about 2 miles, Brown Duck Creek runs parallel with the trail. Shortly after you cross a second small bridge, a switchback takes you to the ridge top. There, about 3 1/2 miles from the trailhead, you will have a good view of Moon Lake. The final quarter mile to the meadow mostly is downhill. If you are equipped and fit enough, you can can go another 3 1/2 miles to Brown Duck Lake. Look for elk and moose throughout the hike. Fees: None
This marshy meadow is found along the Brown Duck Trail.
Directions: From Duchesne, take State Road 87 north for about 32 miles. The trail head is on the left side of the road as part of a large, gravel pullout area for horses and vehicles. You will see campgrounds on the opposite side of the road.
Destination:
Meadow
Round trip miles:
7.5 miles
Hiking time:
4 hours
Elevation gain:
1,089 feet
Difficulty:
Moderate
Dogs allowed:
Yes
Trailhead Restrooms:
Yes
Mountain biking:
Photo and text by Nate Carlisle, graphic by Amy Lewis/The Salt Lake Tribune
