Northern Utah Ranges
Loop hike to Layton peak summit
Using the Great Western trail on the ascent, and the Community Trail on the descent -- a loop summit hike is possible.Getting There
See directions to the Fernwood trail head.Route Description
Use the Great Western trail to ascend to Layton peak. The distance is 6.55 miles one way. The trail is very easy to follow; it is the same route as the Wasatch 100 until you reach Chinscraper. Instead of turning right to continue the Great Western trail south, follow the easy ridge line to the summit. There are great views looking West.You can then choose to traverse over to Thurston -- which will add 1 mile of traversing. It is then possible to downclimb Thurston to a segment of the Great Western trail, and take GW trail north back to Chinscraper.
Taking the community trail back down to Fernwood will give you a round trip distance of 12.3 miles.
My GPS registered 10.1 miles for the loop WITHOUT Thurston peak and it takes close to eight hours if you are an average hiker. The backside of Chinscraper has snow until June, making the ascent tricky (if not dangerous).
Water, Camping
There is one spring complete with PVC pipes on the ridge route. There is an established campsite complete with an old stove and folding metal chairs before you reach Chinscraper. There is alot of pine forest area which could also be used as a high altitude campsite, and you will have the whole area to yourself.Images
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