Project: Hoyt Peak Opening Day with Bronco Wild Fund
Location: Utah
Description: On June 15, 2026, Tread Lightly! partnered with representatives from the Bronco Wild Fund and the Heber-Kamas Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service for the annual opening of the Hoyt Peak OHV route, one of Tread Lightly!’s adopted stewardship areas. Hoyt Peak is seasonally closed each year to protect wildlife during elk calving season and spring migration. Once the seasonal closure is lifted, partners work together to prepare the route for safe public access while supporting responsible land management and wildlife conservation.
The project began at the Samak entry point, where the team officially opened the access gate for the season. Volunteers then traveled the route, removing fallen trees and trimming back overgrown vegetation to restore safe passage for full-size vehicles. These maintenance efforts help reduce the potential for vehicle damage while providing visitors with safe and enjoyable access to the trail.
After clearing the route, the team continued to the Marion access point and completed the project by opening the second gate, restoring full seasonal access to the Hoyt Peak trail system. Annual opening-day projects like this play an important role in balancing recreational access with the protection of sensitive wildlife habitat, ensuring public lands remain healthy and accessible for years to come.
This project demonstrates the value of collaboration between public land managers, nonprofit organizations, and corporate partners in maintaining sustainable recreation opportunities while protecting natural resources. Through continued stewardship efforts, Hoyt Peak remains a welcoming destination for responsible OHV recreation.
A sincere thank you to the Heber-Kamas Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service and the Bronco Wild Fund for their continued partnership and dedication to protecting wildlife habitat while improving responsible access to our public lands. Your support helps ensure these opportunities remain available for current and future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.
Thank you to the partners who made this possible:
- Bronco Wild Fund
- United States Forest Service
Want to get involved in your own Tread Lightly! project? Find upcoming activities, events, and grant opportunities at treadlightly.org.
