Highland City Natural Area wilderness guide
Natural Area · Utah

Highland City Natural Area

Highland City Natural Area offers a rugged, scenic escape with rich ecological diversity, extensive trails, and opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation just north of Utah Lake.

Natural Area1,2004+ Trails

Designation

Natural Area

Total Wilderness Area

1,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Highland City Natural Area

Highland City Natural Area offers a rugged, scenic escape with rich ecological diversity, extensive trails, and opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation just north of Utah Lake.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Highland City Natural Area is located in Utah County, Utah, positioned along the northwestern shore of Utah Lake. Covering rolling hills, steep ridges, and scenic canyons, it provides a striking contrast to the surrounding urban and agricultural lands. The area features sagebrush flats, juniper woodlands, and pockets of Gambel oak, supporting a variety of wildlife including mule deer, coyotes, red-tailed hawks, and numerous songbirds. Historically, this land was used by Native American tribes for seasonal hunting and gathering, and while it holds no major archeological sites, it maintains cultural significance for the region. The gentle topography combined with steep sections offers a range of hiking and mountain biking opportunities, including trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking Utah Lake and the Wasatch Mountains. Visitors can experience solitude, panoramic vistas, and seasonal wildflowers in spring. The area’s easily accessible trail system makes it a popular spot for local outdoor enthusiasts seeking exercise and nature close to urban centers. The natural area also functions as an important wildlife corridor and a key habitat for raptors and small mammals. Its proximity to Highland City and the greater Utah Valley makes it an appealing day-use location for adventure, photography, and relaxation.

Field Guide · Natural Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Highland City Natural Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Viewpoint Ridge Overlook with sweeping views of Utah Lake and the Wasatch Range✦ Habitat for diverse wildlife including mule deer and various bird species✦ Trailhead for moderate mountain biking and hiking routes✦ Quiet backcountry areas providing peace away from urban noise
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Highland City Natural Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Highland City Natural Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Highland City Natural Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Highland City Natural Area
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Highland City Natural Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Highland City Natural Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Highland City Natural Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Highland City Natural Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permit required

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).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Highland City Natural Area

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

Cedar Hills, Utah
⌖ 1.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cedar Hills, Utah

Cedar Hills, Utah offers an outdoor playground at the edge of the Wasatch Range, combining hiking, mountain biking, and paddling on Utah Lake. With easy access to nature and year-round adventure, it's an ideal spot for active travelers.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Pleasant Grove, Utah
⌖ 1.97 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pleasant Grove, Utah

Pleasant Grove is a gateway town to Wasatch Mountain adventures, offering hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and paddling near Utah Lake. A convenient base for exploring Timpanogos wilderness and enjoying ski resorts in winter.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
American Fork, Utah
⌖ 3.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

American Fork, Utah

American Fork, Utah is a mountain town offering year-round outdoor fun from hiking and climbing in the summer to skiing nearby in winter. Its gateway location to American Fork Canyon makes it a prime basecamp for alpine lakes, trails, and protected wilderness.

Late spring through early fall for hiking and biking; winter for skiing
Explore Town
Highland, Utah
⌖ 3.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Highland, Utah

Highland, Utah, offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty with activities ranging from hiking and biking to horseback riding and climbing. Explore the captivating landscapes of the Wasatch Range and beyond.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Alpine, Utah
⌖ 4.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Alpine, Utah

Alpine, Utah is an inviting mountain town on the edge of the Wasatch Range, offering hiking, biking, fishing, and access to top Utah ski resorts. Enjoy outdoor adventures amid stunning alpine scenery year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Lehi, Utah
⌖ 5.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lehi, Utah

Lehi, Utah, serves as a gateway to hiking, biking, paddling, and camping adventures with easy access to Utah Lake and nearby mountain trails. It’s an excellent basecamp for outdoor lovers seeking desert landscapes and foothill escapes year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Highland City Natural Area

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

Riverside Refuge: A Newly Finished Cabin Steps From the Provo River
ADVEXPEDITION
Lehi, Utah
LodgingADV Bookable

Riverside Refuge: A Newly Finished Cabin Steps From the Provo River

A recently completed 2BR/1BA cabin in Provo Canyon, located feet from the Provo River and minutes from Sundance Resort and Park City—this guide lays out the lodging, access to outdoor pursuits, and practical planning details.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip