Great Western Trail: Sessions Mountain Road to Francis Peak

Dogs Unknown

This section of the GWT starts at the top of Ward Canyon Road which is also the North end of Session's Mountain Road and the South end of Sky-line drive. Most cars can reach it without any problems. The trail begins as a wonderful hike descending through thick forest with a few stream crossings and craggy formations before reaching the Farmington Flats area. This area is characterized by a curious color of sand (I always called it "indian sand"), and is frequented by ATVs. The Farmington Flats area is a network of ATV trails that includes Chicken Creek Loop, and Gold Ridge. (I've motor-biked them both many times.) Exiting Farmington Flats area, you arrive at the shed that begins Francis Peak road. From here you can drop into Morgan or go down Farmington Canyon. Continuing on the GWT, you'll eventually reach Francis Peak. Best to go around it than over it to avoid radiation exposure. Beyond that, you reach a fork. Going right takes you to the Smith Creek Lakes (there are 3 of them.) Going left continues the GWT towards Thurston Peak. Now go to the description for GWT: I-84 to Francis Peak.