Being the highpoint of Utah, Kings Peak is the seventh highest among the U.S. State Highpoints. It is located 42 mi (67.59 km) from Duchesne in the High Uintas Wilderness Area of the Ashley and Wasatch National Forests. A popular King's Peak Utah Henry's Fork Trail is a 26.8-mi (43.13-km) route with 5,118 feet (1,560 m) elevation gain. It can be used for hiking, birding, horseback riding, and backpacking and is rated as difficult. It is recommended to hike this trail from June until October, depending on snow and weather conditions.
Kings Peak Trail starts at the Henrys Fork trailhead and passes near Henrys Fork Lake and over Gunsight Pass and Anderson Pass. It climbs the north ridge of Kings Peak, about 1.5 mi (2.41 km) to the summit, where it offers a great view. Kings Peak is 6,348 ft (1,934 m) high, so it is considered 19th highest in the U.S. It was named after Clarence King, the first director of the U.S. Geological Survey.
Practical info
When is the ideal time to hike King's Peak in Utah?
Late June to early September is the best period for hiking King's Peak in Utah. Accessibility and safety are the prime reasons to choose the time. Checking weather condition before hiking and carrying warm clothes, waterproof boots, and shelter is critical for a comfortable experience. Show more
What is the location of King's Peak, and how to get there?
The High Uintas Wilderness Area of the Ashley and Wasatch National Forests is the site of King's Peak, 42 miles away from Duchesne, Utah. The best starting point for hiking is the Henry's Fork trailhead that is accessible after traveling 20 miles east from Highway 121 on the Uinta Canyon Road. A rough road leads to the trailhead, requiring four-wheel drive vehicles with high clearance. Alternatively, one can park and hike an additional 4.5 miles to reach the location. Show more
What are the types of activities suitable for King's Peak visitors?
King's Peak offers a variety of activities for visitors such as hiking, backpacking, bird watching, and horseback riding. Hiking through the Henry's Fork trail is the most popular activity. Backpacking allows experiencing the wilderness for several days. During the summer, visitors can enjoy wildflowers and butterflies, making it an ideal location for bird watching. Local outfitters offer guided trail rides for horseback riding enthusiasts to explore the area. Show more
What is the duration time and difficulty level for hiking through Henry's Fork trail?
Henry's Fork trail is a difficult 26.8-mile route with a 5,118 feet elevation gain. Hikers can complete the trek in approximately three to four days, depending on the number of stops and the pace of the expedition. Carrying essential gear such as tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, food, and water is critical as the trail offers limited resources for both. Show more
Who is Clarence King, and what is his relevance to King's Peak?
Clarence King was the first director of the U.S. Geological Survey. His contributions in mapping the western regions of the United States helped in the scientific understanding of the area. King's Peak is named after him as a tribute to his services to the scientific community since its inception in 1912. Show more
