Wasatch National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · UT, WY

Wasatch National Forest

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.

National Forest1,607,1774+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1,607,177

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Wasatch National Forest

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.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Wasatch National Forest is a balanced blend of rugged wilderness and accessible natural beauty, integral to the landscape of northern Utah and eastern Wyoming. The forest features parts of the striking Wasatch and Uinta mountain ranges, with elevations ranging from 4,000 feet to 13,500 feet at the peak of Kings Peak. Rich in ecological diversity, the forest is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, providing habitats for species such as the North American black bear, moose, and elk. With a history dating back to its designation in 1906, Wasatch National Forest has long been a popular recreation destination thanks to its extensive network of trails, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In winter, snow sports enthusiasts flock to the areas around Park City and other resorts. The forest's scenic byways and backcountry roads offer breathtaking drives and remarkable opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing. Wasatch National Forest attracts visitors year-round with its multi-use appeal and rich natural landscape.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Wasatch National Forest

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers panoramic views of the Uinta Mountains.✦ The forest is home to Bald Mountain, providing rare wildlife viewing opportunities.✦ Historic sites like the original transcontinental railway route are located nearby.✦ Explore remote sections of the High Uintas Wilderness for solitude.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Wasatch 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 Wasatch National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee for the forest, but some areas may require day or overnight 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 National Forest

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

Mirror Lake Campground

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

Trial Lake Campground

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Wasatch National Forest

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

Kamas, Utah
⌖ 9.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kamas, Utah

Kamas, a gateway to the High Uintas, offers breathtaking outdoor adventures. Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and winter sports amid stunning natural beauty and rich wildlife.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Peoa, Utah
⌖ 12.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Peoa, Utah

Peoa, Utah, is a peaceful mountain gateway offering hiking, mountain biking, backcountry skiing, fishing, and camping. Its location near the Wasatch Mountains makes it perfect for travelers seeking rugged outdoor adventures off the main tourist track.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Heber City, Utah
⌖ 19.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Heber City, Utah

Heber City offers adventure seekers a base to explore Utah's high-altitude playground. From hiking the Wasatch Range to skiing and fishing in clear waters, it caters to every outdoor passion.

Year-round
Explore Town
Park City, Utah
⌖ 20.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Park City, Utah

Park City is a premier adventure destination, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding, scenic trails for hiking and biking, and relaxing paddling in nearby waters. This vibrant town is your year-round basecamp for outdoor excitement.

Winter for snow sports, Summer and Fall for hiking and biking
Explore Town
Midway, Utah
⌖ 21.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Midway, Utah

Midway, Utah is an inviting mountain town known for its hot springs, access to hiking and biking trails, and proximity to ski resorts. Outdoor lovers enjoy fishing, camping, and soaking in the iconic Homestead Crater year-round.

Late Spring through Early Fall for most activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Brighton, Utah
⌖ 25.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brighton, Utah

Brighton, Utah offers epic winter sports and scenic summer trails. This mountain town is a hidden gem for skiing, boarding, hiking, and biking enthusiasts looking for a peaceful escape.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Wasatch National Forest

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

Peoa Dirt Primer: Renting a Yamaha XT250 to Learn the Trails
ADVEXPEDITION
Peoa, Utah
Bike RentalADV Bookable

Peoa Dirt Primer: Renting a Yamaha XT250 to Learn the Trails

Daily and weekly Yamaha XT250 rentals in Peoa give beginners a forgiving off‑road platform to practice dirt‑bike techniques; this guide distills what the XT250 is, the rental terms, and what to confirm with the operator.

Bike RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip