Day Trips & Scenic Drives with Short Hikes
Nine Mile Canyon – Short hikes to petroglyph panels and historic sites
About an hour from Duchesne, Nine Mile Canyon is often called the “world’s longest art gallery” thanks to its thousands of Native American petroglyphs and pictographs. Short trails and pull-outs along the canyon road lead to panels where visitors can see well-preserved rock art, historic homestead sites, and dramatic sandstone formations. The drive itself is scenic and accessible by most vehicles, making it easy to combine a day of hiking, photography, and cultural history.
Picture Credit: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/nine-mile-canyon
Ashley National Forest – Nature walks, wildlife viewing, and camping
Stretching across the Uinta Mountains and high desert plateaus, Ashley National Forest offers endless options for outdoor recreation within a short drive of Duchesne. Visitors can enjoy peaceful nature walks, hike alpine trails to lakes and summits, or watch for wildlife like elk, deer, and moose. Numerous campgrounds and dispersed camping areas make it simple to plan an overnight stay. With its mix of forested peaks, clear rivers, and quiet valleys, Ashley National Forest is ideal for hiking, fishing, and getting close to Utah’s natural beauty.
