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11,522 ft · Henry Mountains, Utah

Mount Ellen

Mount Ellen is an 11,522 ft peak in the Henry Mountains, Utah. The standard route is the Bull Creek Pass: 5 mi, 1,856 ft of gain, Class 2.

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Mount Ellen in the Henry Mountains, Utah

Mount Ellen at a glance

  • Elevation11,522 ft3,511 m
  • RouteBull Creek PassClass 2
  • Distance5 mi1,856 ft gain
  • Time4 – 5 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeHenry MountainsUtah

Climbing the Bull Creek Pass

Mount Ellen is the highpoint of the remote Henry Mountains in southern Utah, reached from Hanksville via rough Sawmill Basin and Bull Creek Pass roads; high clearance is recommended. From near the pass, the Class 2 route follows the crest over open tundra to the summit, with a chance of spotting the wild bison herd that roams the range. Expect loose rock, fast-moving storms, and strong wind on the exposed ridge, plus lingering snow in early summer. This is isolated country with no services, so carry water, navigation, and extra layers. Start early, watch the weather, and be self-sufficient given the long drive out.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (25–35 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Base Layer
  • Midlayer
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Sun Hat
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • Headlamp
  • GPS Device
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Power Bank
  • Offline Maps
  • Water
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

What to watch for

  • High altitude
  • Loose rock
  • Snow near summit
  • Ice near summit
  • Storms
  • High winds
  • Remote location
  • Altitude sickness
  • Steep exposure
  • Rapid weather shifts
  • Dry conditions

Quests with Mount Ellen

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Mount Ellen?

Mount Ellen is 11,522 feet (3,511 m) tall. It is in the Henry Mountains, Utah.

How hard is it to hike Mount Ellen?

The Bull Creek Pass is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 5 miles with 1,856 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Mount Ellen?

Most people take 4 – 5 hours round trip on the Bull Creek Pass, covering 5 miles with 1,856 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Mount Ellen?

Usually, if you are fit. The Bull Creek Pass is a common first summit for hikers ready for 4 – 5 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.

What time should you start hiking Mount Ellen?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon.

When is the best time to hike Mount Ellen?

The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

What is the trailhead elevation for Mount Ellen?

The Bull Creek Pass starts at about 10,490 feet, roughly 1,032 feet below the summit.

Climb Mount Ellen with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list

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