3.3
(25)
99
hikers
01:28
4.06km
400m
Hiking
Embark on the Bennie Creek Trail, a moderate hike spanning 2.5 miles (4.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1324 feet (404 metres). This route, which takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete, guides you through a varied landscape of open meadows and dense coniferous forests. You'll also pass through beautiful aspen stands, with the year-round Bennie Creek often visible, where you might even spot beaver dams. Keep an eye out for expansive views of the Wasatch Range as you ascend.
Access to the Bennie Creek Trail is convenient, with parking generally available at the Grotto Trailhead. This makes starting your hike straightforward. Be aware that the trail is popular with mountain bikers, so stay alert for downhill traffic, especially on steeper sections of the path. Dogs are welcome to join you on this adventure, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion.
Situated within the expansive Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Bennie Creek Trail offers a classic mountain hiking experience. The constant presence of the year-round Bennie Creek is a defining feature, providing a vibrant habitat where you might observe active beaver dams. This trail stands out for its blend of forest immersion and rewarding vistas of the majestic Wasatch Range, making it a notable option for those seeking a moderate challenge in the region.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
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Waypoints
Highlight • Trail
4.06 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.95 km
104 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.92 km
125 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,350 m)
Lowest point (1,940 m)
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Weather
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Friday 10 July
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16°C
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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail typically starts near the Grotto Trailhead. While specific parking details aren't provided, it's generally accessible from the Mt. Nebo area near Payson, Utah. Look for designated parking areas near the trailhead.
The Komoot tour for the Bennie Creek Trail is approximately 4.06 km (2.5 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete. However, if you combine it with the Bennie Creek Cutoff or other trails in the Payson/Mount Nebo system, your hike could extend to 4.54 miles or even up to 7 miles, significantly increasing the duration.
The trail offers a diverse experience, moving through open meadows, coniferous forests, and aspen stands. The surface is primarily natural ground, often described as a 'standard/terra trail'. You can expect some rooty sections and rocky drops, and parts can be overgrown with tighter, blind turns. The trail parallels the year-round Bennie Creek.
While Komoot rates this trail as 'moderate' for hiking, it's important to note that it's also a popular downhill mountain biking route. Hikers going against the primary biking flow might encounter significant uphill sections. Some parts, especially the first 3/4 mile, can be very steep. Hikers should be prepared for varied terrain and be aware of mountain bikers.
Along the trail, you'll enjoy scenic views of the surrounding Wasatch Range. The trail follows the year-round Bennie Creek, where you might spot beaver dams. The mixed environment of aspens, open meadows, and coniferous forests provides a beautiful backdrop for your hike. The Grotto Trailhead is a notable starting point.
Yes, the route primarily follows the Bennie Creek Trail. It also briefly intersects with sections of the Grotto Trail and the Loafer Mountain Trail, offering possibilities for longer excursions and connecting with the broader Payson/Mount Nebo trail system.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Bennie Creek Trail. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the trail for everyone.
The trail is popular during the warmer months, with most recorded activities occurring in September, July, and June. Conditions can vary, with reports of good dirt but also occasional wet spots. While open year-round, winter conditions will present snow and ice, requiring appropriate gear and experience.
The Bennie Creek Trail is located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. While many areas within national forests are free to access for day use, some specific recreation sites or activities may require a fee or permit. It's always best to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest for the most current information regarding any required permits or fees for this specific area before your visit.
The Bennie Creek Trail is very popular with mountain bikers, especially as a downhill route. Hikers should be aware that they will likely encounter bikers, particularly if hiking uphill against the primary downhill flow. Stay alert, listen for approaching bikes, and be prepared to yield the right-of-way to ensure a safe experience for everyone on the trail.
Absolutely! The trail is named for Bennie Creek, which flows year-round alongside the path. Keep an eye out for beaver dams along the creek, which are a unique natural feature. The diverse forest types, including aspens and conifers, also contribute to the scenic beauty.
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