Wastach Mountain State Park
Close to Salt Lake City, Heber City, and Soldier's Hollow.
A great state park in northern Utah that has something for everyone in the family.
When planning a family day trip, it can be hard to find something to please Mom, Dad, and the kids. Wasatch Mountain State Park is one of those places that has something for everyone to enjoy, whether it is day hiking, golf, fishing, bicycling, or relaxing under a shade tree for a picnic lunch or to read a book.
Close to Salt Lake City
Located about an hour east of Salt Lake City near the town of Heber City, Wasatch State Park is an alpine paradise of about 22, 000 acres. Green mountains surround a valley filled with a golf course and a designated fee campground. There is also a small pond for fishing, with geese wandering about looking for a handful of bread from children, while their parents look on from picnic blankets spread under shade trees.
Facilities and Activities
At the entrance to the park is a visitor’s center, which has exhibits describing local flora and fauna, as well as an information desk staffed by a volunteer with brochures. Couches are available for those who want to take a rest, as well as restroom facilities. The visitor’s center also has information for a junior ranger program for children.
For those who want to get into the hills, several hiking trails lead visitors into the surrounding hillsides. One trail starts off from the visitor’s center parking lot and follows up a nearby ridge. Another trail is a designated nature trail, which is accessible for those of all ages. These trails are open in winter months, and are accessible with snowshoes and cross country skis.
Winter Olympics
Wasatch Mountain Park is conveniently located to other attractions in the area. Nearby is Soldier’s Hollow, which was a site for the Winter Olympic Games. The park is also close to both Heber City and Park City, which have restaurants, hotels, and great skiing in the winter.
Fees
This park not only has such a variety of activities, but it is also very inexpensive for the family budget. There is no entrance fee to get into the park, with the campgrounds charging $5 for a day use fee, and between $9-$21 for the overnight camping fee. The campground facilities are closed during the winter months.
For a fun day of outdoor adventure that the whole family can enjoy, consider visiting this great state park. It is a place where one can find a plenty of exciting activities, at a price that won’t break the family budget.
