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Wasatch National Forest adventures

Wasatch National Forest Adventures

Wasatch National Forest, spanning parts of Utah and Wyoming, offers diverse outdoor activities set against the dramatic backdrop of the Wasatch and Uinta mountain ranges.

1,607,177
Acres Protected
1,700+
Miles of Trails
4,500,000
Annual Visitors
1906
Year Established

Popular Activities

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Wasatch National Forest.

Entrance Requirements

No entrance fee for the forest, but some areas may require day or overnight permits.

Best Time to Visit

Visit in summer for hiking and wildflowers; winter for skiing and snowboarding.

Visitor Information

Main visitor information can be found at District Offices in Heber and Salt Lake City.

Getting There

Accessible via several major highways, though some roads may close seasonally due to snow.

Weather & Climate

Summers are warm and dry; winters are cold with heavy snowfall, especially at higher elevations. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, but weather can be unpredictable.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts focus on minimizing wildfire risks, managing invasive species, and protecting diverse ecosystems including rare alpine zones.

Camping in Wasatch National Forest

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Mirror Lake Campground

Developed
Reservations Required

Located along Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, popular for its fishing and hiking trails.

Trial Lake Campground

Developed
Reservations Required

Positioned in the heart of the Uinta Mountains, known for nearby lake fishing and scenic landscapes.

Top Trails

Mount Timpanogos Trail

Hard
14 miles

A challenging hike to one of the most prominent peaks with panoramic views.

Cecret Lake Trail

Easy
1.7 miles

A popular and scenic hike, especially beautiful during wildflower season.

Red Pine Lake Trail

Moderate
7.2 miles

Known for its alpine lake views and as a gateway to Pfeifferhorn.

Bald Mountain Trail

Moderate
2.8 miles

Short trail offering stunning 360-degree summit views of the Uinta Range.

Trailblazer Tips

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers some of the forest's most stunning vistas and is best explored with an early morning drive.

In winter, check road conditions as snow can close some access routes.

Campgrounds often fill up quickly during the summer months; reserve in advance.

For pristine alpine scenery, consider hiking to Cecret Lake. It's best at sunrise during the wildflower season.

Helpful Resources