I'm new to this whole ATV trail riding thing, and after spending a couple of days staying in Red Canyon campground, I am looking forward to my afternoon ride up Castro Canyon. I hiked Losee Canyon several years ago and fell in love with Red Canyon, even more so than Bryce Canyon. With wide open, rolling red hills and impressive hoodoos, the trail system of Red Canyon is as nice as it's national park neighbor, without the crowds. Castro Canyon Trail #3089 is restricted to travel with a 50 inch limit on OHVs on the trails. My quad fits over the gate ramp, so I guess that means I'm good to go.

I remember my long hike up Losee Canyon and marveled at how few people were willing to make the hike to see such fantastic scenery. Now that I'm driving through equally beautiful scenery, I understand the desire to own an ATV. All the beauty and excitement without all the sweat. Upon reaching the trail junction, I do realize one drawback to sightseeing with a quad. The joy of riding, the speed, does mean missing out on some beauty that surrounds you.

I decide to continue to the junction of Fremont Trail #001 and turn left as the trails diverge. This trail appears less traveled and climbs high into the pinion and ponderosa pine trees that reside at higher elevations. This section of the trail is designed explicitly for ATVs at the path twists and uses banked turns along its path. I've reached another junction, and it is time for another decision. I decide to ride just a little further. This time Peterson Point is the destination, and it is doubtful there will be another junction at the point.

The way leads along a high ridgeline, offering viewpoints into the Henry Mountains and dark clouds cast shadows over the mountain ranges rugged peaks. Peterson Point is considered a foothill to the mountain tops behind me, but offer a stunning view into the Panquitch valley. The beautiful red of Red Canyon is abundant, but Peterson Point and the connecting saddle is brilliant white.

My return ride is uneventful, as I ponder how to get more information on the OHV trail systems in the area. Unfortunately, if it is anything like hiking or peak-bagging, the information will be sparse and scattered, but I look forward to many more rides.