Start
from either of 2 locations to get to the trailhead. From Panguitch head
South along Hwy 89, (shoulder of the road only) towards the first dirt road
on the left just prior to going up the hill. This dirt road takes you past
the dump and continues along until you reach the trailhead. At the trail
head there is a bathroom available.
The other approach is from Hwy 12 east towards Red Canyon, and just prior
to reaching the first red rocks you will spot the sign for Losee and Casto
Canyons on the left side (north) of the hwy. Take the good dirt road to
the trailheads of Losee and then further on Casto Canyon. Losee Canyon is
not for OHV’s but just for bikes, hikers and horses. At the trailhead there
is ample parking for trailers for both OHV’s and horses and includes a loading
ramp, hitching rails and basic signs. There is no water at the trailhead
and camping is not allowed at the parking area/trailhead.
Beginning at the Casto Canyon trailhead the trail takes you into a wonderful
world of red hoodoos, sandstone cliffs of white, pink and even green colors.
The spectacular red rock is evident along most of the Casto canyon ride
until you reach the forested areas of ponderosa pines where the colors changes
with every turn of the trail. This trail includes several passages through
the usually dry riverbed but local heavy thunderstorms can and will change
that quickly. The trail goes upwards easterly for approx 5.5 miles where
it connects to the Sanford Road and the trail continues northeast approx.,
1.9 miles and is referred to as the Barney Cove Trail.
The trail junction with the Sanford road will also connect you
to the Limeklin trail which drops back down towards the West and ends near
the Panguitch Airport. The Sanford road additionally connects the rider
to the Fremont ATV trail which the traveler can go south towards Tropic
Reservoir and the Great Western Trail and north to the Piute ATV trail system.
Elevation changes from Approx 7000 feet to 7840 at the Sanford Road/Barney
Cove Trail area.
Facilities: Fuel, food, lodging and camping are available in Panguitch
along Hwy 89 and the Red Canyon Area along Hwy 12