Th High Uintas Wilderness is characterized by the highest peaks in Utah, countless lakes and a unique alpine ecosystem. It is managed by the Forest Service and consists of 453,860 acres!
In total, the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is divided up into eight districts. To best reflect the needs and character of the nearby community, the forest maintains a separate supervisor’s office for each district. Because of the climate and high elevation of many parts of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, some areas may be closed to automobile travel in winter, during which most of the developed campground areas close. But during the warmer months, it’s a 2.1-million-area playground.
Here are a few of the outdoor activities that the High Uintas has to offer
Hiking
Bald Mountain in my opinion is the best time investment you can make for a hike in the High Uintas. After only 2.5 miles of hiking (keep in mind, it’s a bit steep) you’ll be at the peak where you’ll have a bird’s eye view of amazing vistas. More info
Backbacking
There are numerous peaks and lakes you can backpack to and with the abundance of water all around, you don’t need to worry about running out of water (unlike many of our desert backpacking destinations in southern Utah). Here’s a list of some of the top ones including Kings Peak, the highest peak in Utah, along with the jaw-dropping Red Castle Lake. More info
Fishing
If you’re looking for a guided and catered fly fishing trip, check out Flying J Outfitters. Summer would not be complete without a good old fashioned family camping/fishing trip. Join them on a High Uinta backcountry horseback adventure and see the natural treasure that lies “in your own backyard” and experience the best in high altitude lake fishing. More info
ATVs & Dirt Biking
There are tons of miles of trails to explore on your ATV, side-by-side or dirt bike. Murdock Basin is a great area to ride and there are many different areas to camp if you’re looking to turn it more into an adventure weekend. More info
Hunting
Flying J Outfitters offers fully guided and drop camp hunts during Utah’s general season for open bull elk in Utah’s most pristine wilderness backcountry, the High Uintas Wilderness. More info
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a perfect way to experience the beauty and wildlife of the Uintas Mountains. Multi-day trips combined with fishing is a great way to experience the wilderness. More info
Snowmobiling
Uintah Basin Snowmobile Complex provides easy snowmobile access to the eastern Uinta Mountains, Utah’s highest mountain range. More than 75 miles of groomed trail take off from U.S. 191 north of Vernal, leading snowmobilers into one of northern Utah’s favorite snowmobile playgrounds. Trailheads are located at Elk Meadows, East McKee, Flaming Gorge, Red Canyon Lodge, and Taylor Mountain. More info
Dog Sledding
Take an exhilarating and once in a lifetime ride as alaskan huskies whisk you away into a world of adventure that few people experience. It’s a one hour long tour through the scenic trails of the Uinta Mountains starting at $350 per sled (400 lb maximum weight limit per sled). More info
_______________________________
Please keep in mind that campsites need to be greater than 200 feet away from water sources, trails and other occupied campsites. All litter must be carried out. Do not bury anything other than human waste, which should be buried 6 inches deep.
Enjoy the wilderness 🙂
– Chantal
