Last updated: August 17, 2023
Thing to Do
Rubey Point Trail
NPS photo
The hike to Rubey Point traverses a ridge to an overlook which provides a panoramic view. On clear days it is possible to see the Uinta Mountains and the Bear River and Monte Cristo Ranges. The unmaintained trail is along an old dirt road which is very uneven in places. The hike is 3 miles / 4.8 km out and back with minimal elevation gain.
Please be cautious hiking at Fossil Butte National Monument. The trailhead is at an elevation of approximately 7900 ft (2408 m) in a desert; you will get sunburned and dehydrated more easily than at lower elevations. The air is also much thinner than at lower elevations and can put more strain on you. There is little shade on the trail and conditions can get very hot. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, bug spray, and plenty of water. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms.
Collecting fossils or other natural or cultural items is prohibited by federal law 36 CFR 2.1.
Please be cautious hiking at Fossil Butte National Monument. The trailhead is at an elevation of approximately 7900 ft (2408 m) in a desert; you will get sunburned and dehydrated more easily than at lower elevations. The air is also much thinner than at lower elevations and can put more strain on you. There is little shade on the trail and conditions can get very hot. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, bug spray, and plenty of water. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms.
Collecting fossils or other natural or cultural items is prohibited by federal law 36 CFR 2.1.
Details
Duration
2-3 Hours
This trail is 3 miles round trip where you gain minimal elevation. As the trail is located at approximately 7900 feet, the hike is mild to moderate depending on how acclimated one is to the altitude. Generally, the hike takes anywhere from an hour and a half to three hours.
Activity
Hiking
The trail is 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip with minimal elevation gain and begins at an elevation of 7900 ft (2408 m).
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Parking lot for Rubey Point Trail
To access the Rubey Point hike, take the Scenic Drive past the Nature Trail and Picnic Area. The Scenic Drive continues 4 miles up a steep incline on gravel road. If you are driving a RV or pulling a trailer behind your vehicle, we do not suggest continuing up this road. It is very narrow and there may not be any area large enough to turn your vehicle around. You are welcome to unhitch a trailer and leave it in the Visitor Center parking area.
Rubey Point is accessed from the second gate which is on your left side as you drive up the Scenic Drive. Park in the small parking lot and walk past the gate onto the dirt road.
Rubey Point is accessed from the second gate which is on your left side as you drive up the Scenic Drive. Park in the small parking lot and walk past the gate onto the dirt road.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer
The Scenic Drive usually opens sometime in May and closes in October after the first snow storm. Please contact the visitor center to see if the scenic drive is open.
Time of Day
Day
The park is open sunrise to sunset.
Accessibility Information
This trail is 3 miles round trip where you gain minimal elevation. The trail is located at approximately 7900 feet (2408 m) elevation. The trail is unmaintained and along an old road; as such the trail is rough and uneven. Service animals are allowed.