How far is Golden Spike from Brigham City?

About 32 miles west, or roughly a 45-minute drive. Take SR-13 west out of Brigham City, then follow SR-83 to the park.

When do the steam locomotives run?

The Jupiter and No. 119 run daily from May through mid-October, except on boiler wash days. Check the park calendar for the daily schedule.

What is the best day to visit?

For the full experience, plan around May 10, the anniversary of the Last Spike, or the Winter Steam Festival in late December. For smaller crowds, visit on a summer weekday during steam season.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes. Fees are paid at the visitor center by card only, and America the Beautiful passes are accepted.

Can I visit in winter?

Yes. The visitor center, Big Fill Loop and Engine House tours are available in winter, and the Winter Steam Festival runs in late December. The West Auto Tour is usually closed, and snow can close roads, so call ahead.

Yes, on a leash. Pets are not allowed inside the visitor center, and keep a close eye on them during locomotive demonstrations, since the noise and steam can startle animals.

Can I take an RV on the auto tours?

No. The auto tours are not approved for RVs or vehicles pulling trailers.

Devil's Playground

Granite Spires and Arches in Utah's West Desert

Far out in Box Elder County's West Desert, between Park Valley and Grouse Creek, Devil's Playground is a field of granite weathered into spires, arches, fins and small caves. It's remote, quiet and rarely crowded, and reaching it takes a long drive and miles of dirt road. For travelers who like their scenery without the crowds, it's one of the most surprising places in northern Utah.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management: View routes and visitor info.

Quick Facts

Location

West Desert, Box Elder County

Rock

Granite, about 38 million years old

Road

Dirt & gravel

Services

None

From Brigham City

About 2.5–3 hours

From Salt Lake City

About 3–3.5 hours

A Hidden Geologic Wonder

The rock at Devil's Playground formed about 38 million years ago when molten rock cooled deep underground. Over millions of years, miles of overlying rock wore away, and wind, water and freezing temperatures carved the exposed granite into the strange shapes you see today.

The formations sit on a mix of BLM, state and private land at the southern end of the Grouse Creek Mountains. There are no facilities, no visitor center and few other people, which is exactly the appeal.

Plan Your Trip

Get the Free Guide

Things to Do at Devil's Playground

Explore the Rock Formations

Spring & fall · Easy wandering · No trails

Wander among granite towers, arches and honeycomb-weathered boulders. There are no formal trails, so explore at your own pace and watch your footing on the rock.

Photograph the Desert Light

Sunrise & sunset · Big skies · Few crowds

Low sun brings out the warm tones and odd shapes of the granite. With no city lights for miles, it's also a great spot for night-sky photography.

Camp in the Backcountry

Primitive · No facilities · Pack it in, pack it out

Dispersed camping is allowed on BLM land, making this a memorable overnight under dark skies. Bring everything you need, including water, and leave no trace.

Before You Go

PLAN FOR REMOTE TRAVEL

There's no fuel, food or water nearby. Fill up in Tremonton or Snowville and carry extra water.

CHECK YOUR VEHICLE

The final stretch is dirt and gravel. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, and roads can be impassable when wet.

STAY ON DESIGNATED ROUTES

Vehicles and OHVs must stay on marked routes. Respect private and state land and follow posted signs.

TELL SOMEONE YOUR PLANS

Cell service is limited or unavailable. Download maps ahead of time and let someone know your route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Visit to Devil's Playground

Pack water, fill your tank and give yourself a full day for the trip. The drive is long, but the reward is a quiet, otherworldly landscape most visitors to Utah never see.