Brian Head — Local services in Summit

Rockhounds, travel up Hwy 143/148 past the Cedar Breaks, and then turn off the pavement, and on to this dirt road called FR047. On both sides of FR047 (from the moment you get on it, and all the way off (sideroads too)), are opportunities for nice stones. You can follow some YT routes if you would like, but my best luck was going off the beaten trail and using some basic knowledge to access native areas which had unique material. You do not need an off road (or high clearance) vehicle to access this; any sedan will do. Different areas offer different varieties, and it is plentiful and abundant on both sides of FR047. Actually it is all over Brianhead mountain. Just take your time, and watch the weather as it can change very quickly. Sorry for the poor pic. There are many other varieties of Agate/Jasper, etc I did not collect (as I have...

Brian Head Peak is very unique because you can drive to the exact top of the peak, whereas a lot of mountains you cannot do that. The high elevation can make some, including myself, very dizzy when making fast movements or standing up. Bring water it's very dry. VERY dry! Bring jackets even in the summertime because it's usually windy there at most times.

The terrain is very jagged and rocky so watch the kids if they start to play. There are also some very unsafe drop offs if you have children.

There's a little hut for picture taking. The drive up is a rugged dirt and gravel road. You don't need a 4x4 vehicle but be aware if you have a nice car you might not want to take it up this road. Not exactly the type of road I am going to drive my BMW up. When storms are rolling in this place really gets exciting and has some amazing...

Epic scenery! Makes one feel a little romantic - if there is such a feeling. Also a good place to have hard chats with friends. The grand views and large drop offs can be used as metaphores to encourage the intensity of the nature of discussion. At the top there is a good place to reignite your undying love for your wife - by cooking up a nice grilled cheese and tuna sandwich under the protective shelter rebuilt by the Sierra Club in the 90's. Nothing like saying I love you with Limburger and tuna, in front of...