Wasatch-Cache National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · UT, ID, WY

Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Wasatch-Cache National Forest spans across northern Utah, southern Idaho, and southwestern Wyoming, offering diverse landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

National Forest1,607,1774+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1,607,177

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Wasatch-Cache National Forest spans across northern Utah, southern Idaho, and southwestern Wyoming, offering diverse landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Wasatch-Cache National Forest, named for the Wasatch Range and Cache Valley, covers more than 1.6 million acres across three states: Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming. The forest features striking geological formations, vast alpine woods, and expansive mountainous terrain. Established in 1906 to protect and manage forested lands, it encompasses a wide array of ecosystems from dense coniferous forests to riparian zones teeming with wildlife. This national forest invites visitors with its plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and skiing. Key landmarks include the scenic Mirror Lake Highway, a driving route that offers panoramic views of the rugged Uinta Mountains. The forest also houses portions of five Wilderness Areas, including the popular High Uintas Wilderness, which is renowned for its pristine lakes and lofty peaks. Visitors are drawn to its natural beauty and the opportunities for solitude in its remote regions.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mirror Lake Highway - a scenic drive through the forest.✦ High Uintas Wilderness - pristine wilderness area with high peaks.✦ Mount Timpanogos - popular for hiking and breathtaking views.✦ Tony Grove Lake - beautiful lake with wildflowers and trails.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Wasatch-Cache National Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Wasatch-Cache National Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

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

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; some areas may require specific permits.

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 Wasatch-Cache National Forest

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

Trial Lake Campground

Located along the Mirror Lake Highway, excellent for its lake views and modern amenities.

Tony Grove Campground

Located near Tony Grove Lake, known for its beautiful wildflower displays in summer.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Wasatch-Cache National Forest

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

West Valley City, Utah
⌖ 0.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

West Valley City, Utah

West Valley City offers a gateway to outdoor adventure with easy access to hiking, biking, and paddling along the Jordan River Parkway and Oquirrh Mountains. Nearby ski resorts offer winter thrills, making it a convenient base for year-round outdoor activity.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for nearby skiing
Explore Town
Kearns, Utah
⌖ 3.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kearns, Utah

Kearns, Utah sits just southwest of Salt Lake City, offering quick access to mountain trails, bird-rich wetlands of the Great Salt Lake, and varied outdoor sports. It's a practical base for hiking, biking, birding, and winter pursuits near urban conveniences.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Canyonlands, Utah
⌖ 3.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canyonlands, Utah

Canyonlands, Utah, offers an expansive red rock wilderness featuring hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and backpacking amid dramatic canyons and mesas. With iconic spots like Mesa Arch and Island in the Sky, it’s a must-visit for outdoor lovers seeking rugged adventure and stunning desert landscapes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
South Salt Lake, Utah
⌖ 4.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Salt Lake, Utah

South Salt Lake offers an urban-access point to Salt Lake Valley’s outdoor adventures. With close mountain trails, urban bike paths, and nearby ski resorts, it’s a practical base for year-round activities.

Spring through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Magna, Utah
⌖ 5.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Magna, Utah

Magna, Utah, offers outdoor lovers a rugged mix of hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, and off-roading near the Great Salt Lake. With trails in the Oquirrh Mountains and wetlands teeming with wildlife, it’s a compelling basecamp for hands-on adventure and local history.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Millcreek, Utah
⌖ 6.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Millcreek, Utah

Millcreek, Utah offers quick access to Wasatch mountain trails with options for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. Explore scenic Millcreek Canyon, tackle Mount Olympus, or enjoy paddling and wildlife viewing near this outdoors-friendly town.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Wasatch-Cache National Forest

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

Scales & Ales: Monthly Reptile and Bird Evenings in Kearns
ADVEXPEDITION
Kearns, Utah
ZooADV Bookable

Scales & Ales: Monthly Reptile and Bird Evenings in Kearns

A two-hour, topic-driven gathering at a Kearns facility that pairs hands-on time with reptiles and birds with an optional meetup at a nearby brewery—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

ZooPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip