Great hike to the top of Mt. Loafer/Santquin peak). Almost 12 miles round trip and over 3000 ft elevation gain, so its moderately difficult, but has great views and there were tons of wildflowers out when we hiked the first week of July.We started early and had shade until we were halfway up, but it was full sun on the way down, so start early and take plenty of water.There is a flag on top and a box with a log to sign that you made it to the top.We hike it mid-week and we only saw one guy on a horse and one other group all day. We did see some mountain goats on a ridge above us, but not much other wildlife.

Beautiful, moderately easy hike with lots of shade. Multi-use trail for hiker, bikes, ATVs, and horses.Notes:Kid-friendly: I did it with 4 kids, the oldest, 7yrs, and one a baby in a backpackNon-flat trail: the inclined areas are mild to moderate, but even the steepest is probably only 100ft. I have attached pictures that show the steeper inclines, however past of my description as moderate is because of the fine, dry dirt that covers some of the hills making them somewhat slippery.Wet, muddy areas: there are about 3 areas where the tail is lost in a small creek or in mud (at least when we went), one has a log to cross, but the others so you have to go around or brave it through.Shady: probably 70-80% of the trail had shade when we went from 10-11:30amMulti-use trail: this trail is open for horses, hikers, bike, and ATVs.Fine dirt: parts of the trail are covered in a fine, dry dirt that is somewhat slippery and also is quick to make you dirty.

Loafer Mountain trail (Santaquin Peak) is great, theres a mile or two where you gotta watch out for dirt bikes at the beginning. They come around the corners with reckless abandon and will take you out if you dont jump off the trail. They disappear when you really start heading up.Santaquin Peak summit can get somewhat technical and is a more advanced hike. Bring plenty of water. Theres snow up near the top until July. Theres a lot of rocks to roll an ankle on. I recommend bringing trekking poles or a hiking stick.I personally prefer the Blackhawk Trail that goes off to the right after about a quarter mile from the trailhead. No dirt bikes for miles and miles (theyre not allowed). The trail doesnt have a summit like going up loafer but is much more pleasant with nice meadows (pictured) and nearly all soft dirt trail.Parking is limited here, so come early. You can also use one of the larger parking lots down the road (but youll have a longer trek doing it that way).

Such a great hike with amazing views. Its a bit of a thigh burner though.

Amazing downhill mountain biking up here.

Fantastic mountain biking trail with beautiful fall foliage.

No benches or bathroom and not much parking

Beautiful place to hike and visit

Caught some nice sized fish

Awesome bike ride down to the Grotto. Take first left if you dont want to go uphill. Rated black diamond.

Excellent area for quick hike

Up Jones down Blackhawk great horse trail

What a hike we went to the summit where the american flag is located and boy was it woild recommend to anyone with a decent amount of hiking experience

This trailhead is a great starting point to reach several trails-not only the Mt. Loafer Trail, but the BlackHawk Trail as well, and it also connects to the Bennie Creek Trail. We have hiked from this area many times, and there are lots of things see along the way-wildlife, scenery, and even some fun geocaches!

Beautiful!

Payson canyon is beautiful

Expert trail