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Home to a wide variety of vegetation

Manti La Sal National Forest

1.2 million acres of land and stretches across three counties

Elevation: 
5,000 to 10,000 Feet
Manti-La Sal National Forest is a national forest in Utah and is managed by the United States Forest Service. It covers 1.2 million acres of land and stretches across three counties: Sanpete, Grand, and Emery. The forest was first established as Manti National Forest in 1903 and then given its current name in 1908. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plants, unique geologic features, and recreational opportunities like camping, hunting, fishing, hiking, biking and horseback riding.

Manti-La Sal National Forest in Ephraim, Utah is part of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest system which includes eleven other national forests as well. The forest’s elevations range from roughly 4,500 feet to 11,000 feet and it is home to five of Utah’s highest peaks: Mount Peale (12,721 feet), La Sal Mountain (11,222 feet), King Peak (10,819 feet), Flat Top Mountain (10,641 feet), and Mount Mellenthin (10,495 feet).

The Manti-La Sal National Forest offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors. There are over 200 miles of trails that provide access to backcountry camping, fishing, and hunting areas as well as popular destinations like LaSal Mountain Loop Road and the Orange Cliffs area. The forest is also home to several reservoirs, lakes and rivers which offer great opportunities for swimming and boating.

The Manti-La Sal National Forest is home to a wide variety of vegetation, including coniferous forests consisting of pines, firs and junipers. There are also aspen groves, meadows filled with wildflowers, riparian zones near rivers and streams that support a variety of wildlife, and areas of desert shrubs.

Geology

Manti-La Sal National Forest in Ephraim, Utah is composed of Precambrian and Mesozoic sedimentary rocks, as well as igneous intrusions such as granitic rock. The area contains many limestone deposits, which have been responsible for the creation of several caves in the region.

History

Manti-La Sal National Forest in Ephraim, Utah has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years and is home to several well-known Native American tribes, including the Utes and Paiutes. The area was explored by settlers in the mid-1800s who established small towns and ranches in the region. In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt designated most of the area as Manti National Forest and then in 1908, it was renamed to its current name of Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Today, Manti-La Sal National Forest is open for public use and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. From camping and hunting to hiking and fishing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure in the great outdoors, Manti-La Sal National Forest is the perfect place to explore. With its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder this national forest attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Wildlife

The Manti-La Sal National Forest is home to many different species of wildlife. Common animals include mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, coyotes and black bears. The forest also provides a habitat for a variety of birds like bald eagles, hawks and owls. There are also several species of fish that can be found in the reservoirs and streams throughout the forest.

Planning a trip to Manti-La Sal National Forest

When planning a trip to Manti-La Sal National Forest it’s important to take into consideration the weather, terrain and access points. Camping in particular can be challenging due to limited designated sites, so it’s always best to plan ahead and familiarize yourself with the area before you arrive. Most of the trails require a permit and some areas of the forest are closed off to visitors.
Tent

lodging/camping

The Manti-La Sal National Forest offers a few different lodging options, including cabins and primitive campsites. Backcountry camping is also allowed in many areas of the forest as long as you obtain a permit from the local ranger station before hitting the trail. The nearest towns to Manti-La Sal National Forest are Ephraim, Utah and Manti, Utah which both have a variety of lodging and camping options.

dining

The nearest towns to Manti-La Sal National Forest, Manti, Utah and Ephraim, Utah, also have a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants and fast food chains. There are also several convenience stores located throughout the area that provide basic necessities as well as snacks and beverages.
Money

Fees/permits

There are no fees to get into Manti-La Sal National Forest but there may be fees to do certain activities in the forest. For more information on fees and permits, visit the forest service website for all amounts for Manti-La Sal National Forest.
Track

Pets

Pets are allowed in Manti-La Sal National Forest, but they must be leashed at all times and owners should always clean up after them. There are also specific trails that do not allow pets so it’s important to check the rules before you go.

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San Rafael Swell

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