The dog days of August can be hot and humid, and a retreat to the Uinta Mountains might be the best remedy.
Soapstone Basin, some 16 miles east of Kamas, is one of the best moderate mountain-bike rides around.
The trail takes you off the crowded Mirror Lake Highway (U-150) and into the backcountry, though not a wilderness area.
Wildflowers and aspens dominate the view, and although the Uinta Mountains aren't all that spectacular in this area, the Duchesne River Gorge at the far end of the ride is.
Trail rating: **
Scenic rating: ***
Distance: A 16-mile loop, with an optional 2.5-mile spur to the gorge overlook.
Elevation gain: 1,300 feet. Starting elevation is 8,500.
Difficulty: Moderate
Season of use: Early June though parts of October.
Directions to reach the trailhead: Take I-80 east from Salt Lake City and turn south on U-40/U-32 to Kamas. Head up the paved Mirror Lake Highway (U-150). After about 15 miles, turn right on the Soapstone Basin Road (U.S. Forest No. 037). Head two miles and turn right at the Iron Mine Lake junction. The best place to park is at Lambert Hollow, a mile down the road.
Trail description: The path is dirt and some rock. According to Gregg Bromka, author of "Mountain Biking Utah," the second half of the loop is so rugged it will force riders to stand up to absorb the shock.
The first 1.5 miles are the toughest, with steady climbing to Soapstone Pass. Then go left on Forest Road 174 toward Cold Spring. Stay left past Cold Spring and then go left on Forest Road 304; then go right on the Trail Hollow path to the gorge overlook. Return to the main loop and keep going northwest and then west, looping back to Soapstone Creek, near your starting point.
Cost/charges: There's a $3 vehicle charge for those who plan to stop along the Mirror Lake Highway. Additional fees are required for camping.
Cautions: Don't get too close to the cliffs around "the Bluffs" and the gorge overlook. Dismount your bike and walk to the edge to enjoy the view safely.
Watch for ATV users and other bikers on your ride. Sheep may also be grazing along parts of the trail in summer.
Beware of sudden thunderstorms and possible lightning hazards.
Highlights: The serene beauty of the Uintas, if you're lucky enough to be alone in the area.
Also, the 2,000-foot-deep Duchesne River Gorge isn't a feature you'd expect to find in the Uintas.
Camping: Available at Mirror Lake and other places along U-150.
Water: None available. Carry all you will need.
For more information: Contact the Kamas Ranger District, 1-435-783-4338. Bromka's "Mountain Biking Utah" (Falcon Press) has in-depth directions and contains an invaluable map of the loop ride.
E-MAIL: lynn@desnews.com