Dead Horse trail is only an 11.7-mile long 4-wheeler loop, but it is a very difficult ride. Any experienced 4-wheeler rider looking for that feel of the challenge, can test out this trail and get that old rush of accomplishment back.
The White River National Forest Department manages this 4-wheeler trail. Because of the difficulty level of this 4-wheeler trail, it is seldom used. The following activities are allowed on this 4-wheeler Loop:Cross-country Skiing, Four wheeling, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Motorcycling, Mountain Biking, and Snowmobiling. Be careful and alert that you might be sharing this trail with this other traffic and ride your 4-wheeler defensively.
Your 4-wheeler ride will start at the west entrance to the Dead Horse-Long Park Loop. There are a number of switchbacks to follow that lead up a steep south-facing slope; you will need to call on your 4-wheeler riding experience for this one. As you gain elevation you have a view of the valley of the north fork of the White River. After approximately two miles, you enter into Long Park.
At this point the road then divides with the left hand fork taking you west down Long Park Creek until it ends at Trough Gulch, following the other fork you proceed up Long Park Creek to the divide between the White River and Williams Fork drainages. As you follow the divide on your 4-wheeler, to the north you see the Elk Head Mountains while the south fork of the Williams Fork lies directly below. To the east and south, you see the White River Valley and the Flat Tops. After following this divide for approximately three miles you drop back into the White River Drainage, this drop can be very slick or even have patches of snow with almost no traction. Make sure you have a winch kit installed on your 4-wheeler as it may be the only way to get yourself out of a tight spot.
As you proceed down the road you come to another junction. The west fork ends at Missouri Creek, while the east fork takes you to the Dead Horse end of the loop. After this point, you lose elevation quickly and the 4-wheeler goes over a steep, rough, and narrow road until you return to County Road 8.
This is a very challenging ride, but one that experienced 4-wheeler riders will enjoy. Always err on the side of safety, if you aren't sure if you have developed your 4-wheeler skills to handle maneuvering through rough terrain, just simply wait a little longer and build up your skills. Those difficult trails will be there waiting for you.
