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Manti-La Sal National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · UT, CO
Mountain%20Biking Guide

Manti-La Sal National Forest

Manti-La Sal National Forest stretches across southeastern Utah and western Colorado, offering diverse landscapes from high alpine terrain to desert valleys. It's a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.

National Forest1.2 million4+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1.2 million

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Manti-La Sal National Forest

Manti-La Sal National Forest stretches across southeastern Utah and western Colorado, offering diverse landscapes from high alpine terrain to desert valleys. It's a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Manti-La Sal National Forest covers over 1.2 million acres across the La Sal and Abajo Mountains of Utah and the Wasatch Plateau. The forest is a hub for outdoor recreation, offering hiking, camping, mountain biking, and skiing opportunities. The La Sal Mountains, visible from Moab, provide stunning vistas and are the second-highest mountain range in Utah. Wildlife includes mule deer, elk, and various bird species, contributing to its ecological richness. Historically, the forest area has been used by Native American tribes and later by settlers for mining and logging activities. Visitors can explore diverse geography from high-altitude spruce forests to desert canyons, ensuring an appeal for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Manti-La Sal National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Running the Hidden Valley Trail in Moab★ 8.5⌖ 1 miTrail Running
Hidden Valley Trail Head

Running the Hidden Valley Trail in Moab

Explore the 4.5-mile Hidden Valley Trail, a moderate trail near Moab, UT. Perfect for trail running and hiking, you can enjoy stunning views of rock formations and wildlife. Best visited in the cool of spring or fall, it's a rewarding route for adventure seekers.

Trail RunningView Details→
Waterfall Adventure at Mill Creek North Fork Trailhead★ 7.8⌖ 3 miHiking
Mill Creek North Fork Trailhead

Waterfall Adventure at Mill Creek North Fork Trailhead

Explore Mill Creek North Fork Trailhead near Moab, Utah. This moderate hike features a stunning waterfall perfect for a swim and petroglyphs reflecting the area's rich history. Ideal for adventure seekers, the trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

HikingView Details→
Discover the Oasis of Mill Creek, Moab★ 8.6⌖ 3 miHiking
Mill Creek Waterfall

Discover the Oasis of Mill Creek, Moab

Visit Mill Creek Waterfall near Moab, Utah, for an exquisite mix of waterfalls and desert scenery. Enjoy a hike to this refreshing pool; great for both history enthusiasts and swimmers alike. Best from late spring to early fall.

HikingView Details→
Waterfall Hikes Around Moab, Utah★ 8.2⌖ 3 miWaterfall hike
Moab, Utah

Waterfall Hikes Around Moab, Utah

Explore easy waterfall hikes around Moab, Utah, with lush scenery and wildlife. Enjoy the Mill Creek Falls Trail, a 4.5-mile easy hike with shaded areas. Ideal for families looking for a relaxing nature excursion.

Waterfall hikeView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ La Sal Mountain Loop Road✦ Dark Canyon Wilderness✦ Geyser Pass for backcountry skiing✦ Mill Creek Canyon waterfall
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Manti-La Sal National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee required; some areas require permits for specific activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Manti-La Sal National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Oowah Lake Campground

Located by a picturesque alpine lake at 8,800 feet, providing stunning views and fishing opportunities.

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Buckeye Campground

Offers a more rustic camping experience in the Abajo Mountains with limited facilities.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Manti-La Sal National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Moab
⌖ 4.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Moab, Utah

A vibrant desert town renowned for its stunning red rock landscapes, perfect for adrenaline-fueled adventures and serene exploration.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Castle Valley
⌖ 21.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Castle Valley, Utah

A scenic desert town offering world-class rock formations and quiet access to hiking, climbing, and paddling in southeastern Utah’s red rock country.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Cisco
⌖ 32.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cisco, Utah

A rugged, abandoned ghost town gateway surrounded by vast desert canyons and rocky terrain, perfect for history buffs and outdoor adventurers seeking isolation and raw landscape.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Green River
⌖ 48.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green River, Utah

A desert adventure hub with access to stunning canyons, river activities, and dramatic landscapes.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Naturita
⌖ 54.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Naturita, Colorado

A quiet gateway town offering rugged desert landscapes, access to canyons, and river adventures in the scenic San Miguel and Uncompahgre region.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Fruita
⌖ 60.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fruita, Colorado

A vibrant mountain town famous for world-class mountain biking, expansive hiking trails, and proximity to rugged desert canyons and rivers.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Manti-La Sal National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.