Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 1 

APPENDIX C - 1 

Roadless Area Planning Processes and Evaluation of 

Roadless Areas for Wilderness 

Roadless Area Planning Processes 

Introduction 

This appendix describes the some of the history and the process used to inventory and evaluate

areas on the Wasatch–Cache National Forest for their potential as designated wilderness. Each of 

the roadless areas is summarized individually describing an area’s wilderness characteristics, 

current resource uses, and the need for the area to be included in the wilderness preservation 

system. 

This appendix is followed by an evaluation of roadless areas based on values identified in the 

Final Roadless Area Conservation Rule and by the Wasatch-Cache forest plan interdisciplinary 

team (Appendix C-2). In the Forest Plan DEIS of May 2001 evaluation of roadless areas for 

Wilderness was combined with their consideration as roadless (undeveloped) areas. In this FEIS 

the analysis of Wilderness characteristics for roadless areas (Appendix C-1) and the analysis of 

roadless area values (Appendix C-2) have been separated. 

In this analysis roadless areas are grouped within their management areas, and then in sequence 

generally from north to south starting at the Idaho state line and moving to the southern boundary 

of the Wasatch-Cache along the Wasatch Front, and then moving from west to east across the 

Uintas Mountains. 

Inventory of Potential Wilderness 

Updating the 1983 Roadless Inventory 

Past roadless inventories, such as the 1983 Forest Plan roadless inventory were used as a starting 

point to identify roadless resources on the Wasatch–Cache National Forest. These areas were 

updated and new areas identified based upon criteria in: 

• FSH 1909.12 Inventory and Evaluation of Roadless Areas 

• Intermountain draft Roadless Inventory and Evaluation Guide (USFS, 1998) 

• 1984 Utah Wilderness Act 

A significant change since 1983 roadless inventory was completed as portions of Mount Naomi, 

Wellsville Mountains, Mount Olympus, Twin Peaks, Lone Peak and Deseret Peak (Stansbury 

Mountains) roadless areas were designated as wilderness in 1984 by the Utah Wilderness Act. 

Lone Peak had become a wilderness area earlier with the 1978 Endangered Wilderness Act and 

no further acreage was added in 1984. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 2 

Additional Areas Identified as Roadless 

Because different criteria were used for the 1999 inventory than those used in 1983, additional 

areas were identified as roadless since the 1983 Roadless Inventory: (Those in italics below have 

been added since the DEIS of May 2001 based on their identification in public comments on the 

DEIS.) 

• Temple Peak (Logan Ranger District) 

• Right Hand Fork (Logan Ranger District) 

• Boulder Mountain (Logan Ranger District) 

• Elk Valley (Logan Ranger District)

• Mahogany Range (Logan Ranger District) 

• Sugar Pine (Ogden Ranger District) 

• Rock Creek – Green Fork (Ogden Ranger District) 

• Hogsback (Salt Lake Ranger District) 

• Mueller Park (Salt Lake Ranger District) 

• Red Butte (Salt Lake Ranger District) 

• Lone Peak Additions (Salt Lake Ranger District)

Further, the Mount Logan 1983 roadless area was split into three separate roadless areas, because 

of constructed roads that were identified. 

Areas Eliminated from Wilderness and Roadless Evaluation in the FEIS 

A roadless area must have at least 5,000 acres or be contiguous to an existing wilderness area to 

be included in the roadless area inventory. Some areas were included in an early version of the 

revised inventory, but have now been eliminated from the inventory due to more recent 

information that resulted in insufficient roadless acreage for those areas. These areas will not be 

evaluated as potential wilderness and their values associated with the Roadless Areas 

Conservation Rule were not considered in comparing alternatives in the FEIS. 

• Public Grove Hollow (Ogden Ranger District) – this was a new area identified in an earlier 

draft of the new roadless inventory, but a constructed road identified later in the process, 

split the area into two separate areas, both less than 5,000 acres (3,178 and 3,158 acres). 

• Lamb Canyon (Ogden Ranger District) – this was a new area identified in an earlier draft of 

the new roadless inventory, but additional constructed roads were identified, the narrowness 

of the area and adjacency to substantial private land caused the area to be less than 5,000 

acres (4,293 acres). 

• Little West Fork Blacks (Evanston/Mountain View Ranger District) – area was identified in 

the 1983 roadless inventory, but a constructed road identified split the area into two separate 

areas, both less than 5,000 acres (4,634 and 3,845 acres). 

These three areas were shown on alternative management prescription maps in the DEIS, but 

have been removed from prescription mapping and acreage calculations for roadless for 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 3 

consideration as Wilderness and RACR values in the FEIS. Individual page-size maps of these 

three areas are provided with the maps of other roadless areas at the end of Appendix C. 

Between the Draft and Final EIS, it was decided to combine the North, Middle and South Francis 

Roadless areas for the purposes of consideration for Wilderness. Upon examination the 

interdisciplinary team determined that the cultural barriers (minor power lines and blocks of 

private lands of similar roadless character) which had been considered area separators during 

preparation of the DEIS did not significantly interrupt the predominantly undeveloped nature of 

this landscape. 

Consideration of the final Roadless Area Conservation Rule (RACR) 

There is a difference between the inventory considered in the National Roadless Area 

Conservation FEIS and Rule (RACR) (Federal Register January 12, 2001) and the updated 

Wasatch–Cache Forest inventory used for analysis in this FEIS. Changes to the RACR inventory 

can only be made by changes to the rule, which is currently involved in several court cases and 

beyond the scope and control of this forest planning process. 

At the time the RACR inventory was published, an inventory of roadless areas had been 

completed on the Wasatch-Cache (1999). By 2001, locally developed information and public 

comments on the DEIS clearly showed that some of the areas in the RACR inventory did not 

meet minimum roadless area size criteria. Additionally, it was learned that some other areas 

could be added to roadless inventory. 

The three areas above that were eliminated in the inventory considered for forest plan revision 

analysis in this FEIS are still included in the inventory covered by RACR. Therefore, the RACR 

inventory contains Public Grove, Lamb Canyon, and Little West Fork Blacks, and also all three 

Francis areas (North, Middle and South) as separate roadless areas. The RACR inventory does 

not contain Elk Valley, Mueller Park, and Red Butte, as these were added after submissions for 

RACR inventories were completed. 

Acreage values for these areas have changed over time due to a number of factors, including 

changed mapping criteria and the advent of GIS mapping. Rounded acreage figures are used in 

this FEIS to try take the focus off minor differences in acreage numbers and place it more 

appropriately on area characteristics and public needs and sentiments. Table C-1 itemizes 

changes that have occurred since 1983 to the roadless area inventory on the Wasatch-Cache. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 4 

Table C1-1. Wasatch-Cache Roadless Areas: Changes in Numbers and 

 Acreages since 1983 

Name Inventory 

# in 1983

Inventor

y # in 

1999

1983 

Inventory

Acres

1983 

Invento

ry 

GIS

Acres

1984 

Utah 

Wldrness 

Act 

Acres

1999 

Inventory 

Acres* 

*rounded 

acres to the 

nearest 

hundred 

Gibson 19181 0419002 1836 2695 53002,3

Mount Naomi6 19758 0419012 65268 67871 44523 451008

Temple Peak13 NA 0419023 0 0 23,400 

Right Hand Fork Logan13 NA 0419028 0 0 15000 

Mount Logan (North) 19759 0419013 33161 37961 19200 

Mount Logan (South) 19759 0419029 above above 17000 

Mount Logan (West) 19759 0419030 above above 5300 

Boulder Mountain13 NA 0419024 0 0 8800 

Elk Valley17 NA 0419039 0 0 8800 

Mahogany Range13 NA 0419025 0 0 11400 

Mollens Hollow 19761 0419015 15670 16462 17700 

Wellsville Mountains 19760 0419014 23847 24252 22986 1800 

Swan Creek 19180 0419001 9569 9501 94001

Rock Creek – Green 

Fork13

NA 0419034 0 0 5700 

Sugar Pine13 NA 0419031 0 0 5600 

Upper South Fork 19764 0419018 11828 13104 17300 

Willard 19762 0419016 18306 19561 20000 

Lewis Peak 19763 0419017 10878 11489 12100 

Burch Creek 19765 0419019 6650 8166 7500 

Francis 19756 0419010 15047 15314 1520016

Farmington 19755 0419009 9016 10412 10900 

Hogsback13 NA 0419026 0 0 7900 

Mueller Park17 NA 0419038 0 0 8400 

Red Butte17 NA 0419037 0 0 6200 

Mount Aire 19754 0419008 9089 9313 9700 

Mount Olympus6 19753 0419007 24606 24652 15300 10100 

Twin Peaks6 19752 0419006 12905 18417 11495 6500 

White Pine 19730 0419004 2356 1884 21005

Lone Peak Addition 6, 13 NA 0419027 0 0 974714 900 

Stansbury Mountains6 19757 0419011 57536 58726 25215 397007

Nobletts 19701 0419003 1671 1876 31004

Lakes 19751 0419005 104109 107415 122000 

High Uintas6 19901 0419022 15317110 272876 1798131

1

10310012

Widdop Mountain 19766 0419020 7268 5937 80009
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 5 

Little West Fork 

Blacks13,15

19767 0419021 8834 8547 4600 

Public Grove Hollow13,15 NA 0419032 0 0 3600 

Lamb Canyon13,15 NA 0419033 0 0 4300 

TOTAL ACREAGE: 602,26112

 746,431 309,079 620,80018

1983 acres from Appendix C of 1983 DEIS 

1983 GIS acres show original roadless areas calculated with newer GIS technology. 

Wilderness acres reflect those roadless acres in 1983 inventory that became wilderness. 

1999/2000 acres reflect current status of new roadless inventory. 

Footnotes: 

1 – Contiguous with Caribou National Forest roadless area, which identified 7,300 acres in their 1996 inventory. 

2 – Split into two polygons of 7,185 and 2,198 acres by road corridor, but adjacent to Caribou NF roadless. 

3 – Contiguous with Caribou National Forest roadless area, which identified 8,320 acres in their 1996 inventory. 

4 – Contiguous with Uinta National Forest roadless area, which identified 4,983 acres in their 1998 inventory. 

5 – Contiguous with Uinta National Forest roadless area, which identified 1,297 acres in their 1998 inventory. It was 

not in their 1983 inventory. 

6 – Part of roadless area was designated by wilderness in 1984 Utah Wilderness Act or 1978 Endangered Wilderness 

Act (Lone Peak) 

7 – Contiguous with BLM WSA North Stansbury (6,800 acres and an additional 8,040 acres identified in their 1998 

reinventory) and BLM WSA Big Hollow (4,300 acres). 

8 – Contiguous with Caribou National Forest roadless area, which identified 28,077 acres in their 1996 inventory. 

9 – Contiguous with Ashley National Forest roadless area, which identified 1,551 acres in their 1999 inventory. It 

was not in their 1983 inventory. 

10 – Acreage count in 1983 excluded 73,859 acres (High Uintas Primitive Area) and 33,859 acres from 1967 

Addition. It is presumed these acres were not counted in roadless inventory because it was assumed these acres were 

a “given” to become wilderness. 

11 – Rest of High Uintas Wilderness acreage is on the Ashley National Forest. 

12 – Contiguous with Ashley National Forest roadless area, which identified 342,513 acres in their 1999 inventory. 

13 – Area not identified in the 1983 roadless inventory. 

14 – Lone Peak Wilderness designated in 1978. Rest of Lone Peak Wilderness acreage is on the Uinta National 

Forest. 

15 – Little West Fork Blacks, Public Grove Hollow, and Lamb Canyon are in the inventory maps shown in Volume 

2, Forest Service Roadless Area Conservation FEIS (November, 2000, pg. 189.) Since then we have determined 

these areas are less than 5,000 acres in size. They are not evaluated for wilderness or considered in alternatives 

regarding values identified by RACR (see Appendix C-2). Both Little West Fork Blacks and Public Grove Hollow 

are also divided into two separate polygon areas, because of roads that have been identified. 

16 – North, Middle (0419035) and South Francis (0419036) combined into one unit between Draft and Final. 

17 – Mueller Park and Red Butte identified by public, verified by Forest Service and added between Draft and Final 

(11/2001). Elk Valley identified by Forest Service (02/2002). 

18 – 600,651 acres if LWF Blacks, Public Grove and Lamb Canyon are excluded. This total is slightly different 

than the total of 606,400 presented in Topic 5 in the FEIS. 

Public Participation for Roadless Inventory 

In the fall of 1998, three open houses were held at district offices in the communities of Logan, 

Evanston and Salt Lake. Maps of each roadless area and the process used to identify them were 

discussed with the public. Comments helped refine the inventory. Additions of new roadless 

areas, and suggested deletions from the roadless inventory based on inadequate size have come 

from further assessment by the interdisciplinary team and acknowledgement of public comments 

received on the DEIS. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 6 

Evaluation of Potential Wilderness 

The inventory of roadless areas was evaluated in terms of three primary criteria: 

• Capability – the degree to which it contains the basic characteristics that makes it suitable for 

wilderness designation without regard to its availability or need as wilderness. 

Characteristics such as naturalness of the environment, the presence of challenging and 

primitive recreation opportunities and feelings of solitude are determined to be important. 

Another important aspect is the ability to manage the area as wilderness. Factors such as 

size, shape, its relationship to external influences and boundary location are considered. 

• Availability –other resource demands and uses of an area. Consideration of current 

constraints or encumbrances is important. 

• Need – the degree to which it contributes to the local and national distribution of wilderness. 

This analysis considers the demand for additional wilderness recreation opportunities, as 

well as the need to give certain ecosystems and landforms protection that wilderness 

designation would afford. 

Forest Service Manual 1909.12 was used as a tool to aid the evaluation process. The Forest 

planning interdisciplinary team and District resource staffs then analyzed the roadless areas 

based on that evaluation criteria, internal comments and public comments received at public 

meetings or in written formats. 

Public Participation for Roadless Evaluation 

The public was informed about the public participation opportunities through a newsletter and 

the forest website. Four public meetings were held in June of 1999. 

Recommendation for Wilderness 

The Record of Decision signed by the Regional Forester will document the areas recommended 

as wilderness with the rationale for the decision. The Regional Forester then submits a statewide 

wilderness proposal to the Chief when all the Forest Plans within a state are finalized. After 

Department and interagency review, the Secretary of Agriculture submits the proposal to 

Congress. Congress then makes the final decision on wilderness designation. Areas 

recommended for wilderness will be protected until Congress decides whether to officially 

designate them as wilderness. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 7 

Changes to Tables on Effects to Wilderness Character 

Between the DEIS and FEIS it was determined that additional information on the nature of 

roadless area values as defined in the FEIS on Roadless Area Conservation should be presented 

(See Appendix C-2). It was also determined that the consideration of effects on roadless values 

should be separated from the consideration of the same roadless areas for Wilderness 

recommendation. Four rows were changed or deleted from the tables entitled Alternatives and 

Potential Environmental Effects which appeared in the DEIS for each Appendix C roadless area 

write-up. These rows were entitled: 

• Roadless/Wilderness Character Protected (acres) - changed to Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres) in this consideration of effects on Wilderness character, or information 

on maintaining roadless values may be found in for each roadless area in tables under the 

columns Maintains Roadless Character or Mostly Maintains Roadless Character 

• Available for Development (acres) – deleted, may be found in tables for each roadless 

area under the column Allows Development 

• Winter Motorized Use Allowed (Snowmobile-acres) – deleted, may be found for each 

roadless area in Winter Recreation tables 

• Winter Motorized Use Allowed (Heliski-acres) – deleted, may be found for each roadless 

area in Winter Recreation tables. 

Information on the effects that was provided in these four rows is now provided in Appendix C-2 

that considers effects on individual roadless areas. It was not considered necessary to provide 

the same information in two places in the analysis, and that the information in these items was 

properly displayed in Appendix C-2. 

Rounding of Acreages for Roadless Areas 

Acreage figures for each roadless area are rounded off to the nearest 100 acres. In the DEIS 

acreage figures were shown to the nearest acre, however, the GIS mapping accuracy for these 

areas was not accurate to that degree. It is thought that rounding provides a more realistic 

approximation of the acreage for these roadless areas. Areas may be said to be within 100 acres 

of the area presented in the tables. 

 

Rationale for applying Management Prescriptions other than recommended 

Wilderness 

Across the range of alternatives presented in the FEIS the application of management 

prescriptions to roadless areas other than for recommended Wilderness is based on the inherent 

value of the characteristics of the area (availability, capability and need are described for each 

area), public values and demands expressed during the planning process, alternative themes, and 

legal sideboards. 

Effects of Alternatives on Potential Wilderness Characteristics 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 8 

Considerations and disclosures of the effects of alternatives on all roadless areas taken 

collectively are provided in Chapter 3, Topic 5 of the FEIS. 

For each alternative the effects on potential Wilderness for a roadless area are shown in the table 

entitled Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character that provides: 

• Wilderness Recommendations (acres) 

• Wilderness Character Protected (acres) 

• Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open (miles) 

• Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open (miles) 

These several data items give a good indication of the intent of management for each area as they 

are conceived in the alternative, and the potential for affecting its possible Wilderness character. 

The intent of the analysis is to show how different the allocations are to Wilderness for the 

roadless areas across the alternatives. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 9 

Table C1 - 2. Acres recommended as wilderness by alternative

Roadless Area Acres Recommended as Wilderness 

Name 

Roadless 

Acres Alt. 1 Alt. 2 Alt. 3 Alt. 4 Alt. 5 Alt. 6 Alt. 7 

CACHE-BOX ELDER 

Gibson 5,300 

Mount Naomi 45,100 40,000 20,300 8,200 8,200 500

Temple Peak 23,400 

Right Hand Fork 

Logan 

15,000 

Mount Logan North 19,200 

Mount Logan South 17,000 

Mount Logan West 5,300 

Boulder Mountain 8,800 

Elk Valley 8,200 

Mahogany Range 11,400 

Mollens Hollow 17,700 

Wellsville 

Mountains 

1,800 1,700 40 40 40 40

BEAR 

Swan Creek 9,400 

Rock Creek Green 

Fork 

5,600 

Sugar Pine 5,600 

NORTH WASATCH – OGDEN VALLEY 

Upper South Fork 17,300 17,200 17,200 14,400 14,200

Willard 19,100 8,300 

Lewis Peak 12,100 12,100 

Burch Creek 6,900 6,900 

Francis 14,800 8,100 

Farmington 10,900 

Hogsback 7,900 

Mueller Park 7,700 

CENTRAL WASATCH 

Red Butte 6,200 

Mount Aire 9,700 9,400 

Mount Olympus 10,000 9,300 2,200 2,000 

Twin Peaks 6,200 5,700 2,300 500 

White Pine 1,900 1,900 1,900 

Lone Peak 

Additions 

900 900 500 

STANSBURY 

Stansbury 

Mountains 

39,700 37,300 17,100 5,000 

WESTERN UINTAS 

Nobletts 3,100 2,700 

Lakes 122,000 119,200 71,900 26,300 38,000

EASTERN UINTAS 

High Uintas 103,100 98,200 29,300 18,200 20,100 20,600

Widdop Mountain 8,000 8,000 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 10 

Table C1 – 3. Percentage of Existing and Recommended Wilderness by Alternative 

Roadless Area Acres Recommended as Wilderness 

Name 

Roadless 

Acres Alt. 1 Alt. 2 Alt. 3 Alt. 4 Alt. 5 Alt. 6 Alt. 7 

Total Acres 606,400 386,900 145,540 51,140 0 0 69,040 73,300

% of Roadless 

Recommended for 

Wilderness 

 64% 24% 8% 0% 0% 11% 12%

% of Roadless and 

Existing 

Wilderness that is 

Recommended 

Wilderness or 

Existing 

Wilderness 

(606,400 

+309,100 = 

 915,500)

 

 (Roadless 

and 

Wilderness) 

76% 50% 39% 34% 34% 41% 42%

% of forest land 

that is 

recommended or 

existing Wilderness 

1,239,300 

(WCNF Forest 

Land) 

56% 37% 29% 25% 25% 31% 31%

Inventoried Roadless Areas evaluated for Wilderness 

Descriptions and Maps 

The following descriptions of each inventoried roadless area were written using data available, 

such as special use permits, oil and gas potential information and information about the current 

condition of the resource from forest employees. Also included with each roadless area 

description are maps. BEFORE you look at the maps, please note the following: 

• Maps are not at specific scale. The scale used is whatever was needed to fit on the 8.5 x 11 

inch page. This means maps of different roadless areas are not at the same scale, because 

they are of different acreage size. 

• Background data shown on the maps is from USGS digital raster graph data; it is for general 

location background only and has not been updated. 

• At this scale, please note that many roads that are excluded from the roadless inventory areas 

by small “cherrystems” (33 to 66 feet each side of road) cannot be seen. 

• To view more detailed maps of roadless areas, please stop by the Wasatch – Cache 

Supervisor Office or the appropriate Ranger District Office for that roadless area. 

• Some roadless areas are adjacent to roadless areas on other Forests (Caribou, Ashley and 

Uinta) or BLM Wilderness Study Areas (Stansbury unit only). Please contact those agencies 

to view their roadless area maps. 

Another consideration for the reader is the description of an area’s boundary and size and shape 

as potential wilderness. This is referred to as “Manageability”. It is written to describe the 

boundaries of each roadless area as they were defined by the inventory protocol. In almost all 

situations an improved boundary could be mapped that would improve the shape of and the 

boundary location for a wilderness area. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 11 

Evaluation of Roadless Areas for Wilderness 

Cache-Box Elder Management Area 

Name: Gibson #0419002 

Acres: Gross: 5,300 

Location and Access: The Gibson area straddles the Utah/Idaho border about 8 miles west of 

Bear Lake. This report will summarize the portion on the Wasatch-Cache. The western 

boundary is the Franklin Basin Road 006 going north to Idaho, the northern boundary is the 

Idaho State line, and the eastern boundary is Utah State land by Beaver Mountain and Logan 

Canyon Highway 89. Franklin Basin Road, Sink Hollow Road, Logan Canyon Highway and 

Beaver Mountain Ski Area can access the area. 

Setting: The average elevation is about 8,500 feet. The topography is quite gentle with a few 

steep and rocky slopes. Vegetation cover types include mountain brush, maple, aspen, sagebrush 

and grass at lower elevations and lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, subalpine fir and spruce at higher 

elevations.

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: The area has had no recent timber sales on the WasatchCache side, although there is past evidence of earlier logging. There are 2,469 acres of 

tentatively suited timber within the area. Recreation: The area is used for snowmobiling, 

cross-country skiing, summer ATV use, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, hunting, and 

dispersed camping. Franklin Basin and Sinks Hollow are major winter snow play areas. 

Minerals: Minerals are federally owned. There are no oil and gas leases in the area. Range: 

Sheep are permitted to graze throughout the area. Water: The area is within the Logan City 

municipal watershed. Land Uses: A snowmobile rental and guide service under permit utilizes 

the area. Roads and Trails: There are no routes designated as open for motorized use within 

the area; however, there are many user-created roads and ATV routes in the area. Further 

surveying of the road system in recently acquired land needs to be completed. The only system 

trails are Sink Hollow, part of the Great Western Trail (motorized), and a small portion of the 

Peterson Hollow Trail (non-motorized). 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is low to moderate because of past 

management activities such as logging. User-created trails detract from the area’s naturalness. 

Ecological and biological values are high. Remoteness and solitude are moderate to low because 

of the nearness to roads and ski area development, the small size of the area, and limited 

screening by vegetation and topography. There are moderate opportunities for primitive 

recreation though opportunities for challenging experiences are limited. Special Features or 

Attractions: Deer, elk and moose utilize this important habitat area. A wolverine sighting has 

been reported. Area is lynx linkage habitat. The Logan River headwaters and Beaver Creek 

have Bonneville Cutthroat trout present. A rare plant, Hopkins tower mustard, is present. There 

are no known heritage resource sites and the area has low potential for future discovery of 

historic and American Indian sites. The scenery values are average. The manageability of the 

area would be poor because of its proximity to the Beaver Mountain Ski Area and the 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 12 

narrowness of the area between private land in section 3 and the ski area (about 3⁄4 mile). The 

area is also narrow (about 1 mile wide) near Beaver Mountain Ski Area north to the Idaho State 

line. It borders about 1.5 miles of private land in the northwest corner. 

Need: The area is low for unique landforms and non-motorized recreation needs. It has 

moderate values for wildlife needs and research purposes. The nearest wilderness is Mount 

Naomi about 4 miles to the west. The area is 20 to 25 miles from Logan and about 100 miles 

from Salt Lake. The area received limited public interest in recommending the area for 

wilderness. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character

Roadless Area: Gibson

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 4,700 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Mount Naomi #0419012 

Acres: Gross: 45,100 

Location and Access: The area is located in Cache County, northeast of Logan and is part of 

the Bear River Range. Access is via Logan Canyon Highway 89 and can also be accessed via 

Forest roads in High Creek, Smithfield Canyon, Green Canyon, Tony Grove, and Franklin Basin. 

The roadless area is composed of several different units all of which are contiguous with the Mt. 

Naomi Wilderness. 

Setting: Elevations range from 4,800 feet to 9,979 feet at Naomi Peak. The western slope (of 

which most is already wilderness) is very steep. Moderate to gentle slopes are more common on 

the eastern flank. Sinkholes and caves are found in some locations in the underlying limestone 

formation. Vegetation on the north and east exposures consist of tall forbs, shrubs, aspen and 

mixed conifer. The south and west exposures consists of grasses, forbs, shrubs, aspen, 

mahogany, and scattered conifer. Valley bottoms consist of sagebrush, chokecherry, mountain 

ash, aspen and mixed conifers. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 13 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are 19, 212 acres of tentatively suited timber 

within the area. The area has potential for prescribed burns to benefit habitat improvement. 

Recreation: The area receives heavy recreation use consisting of hiking, backpacking, biking, 

horseback riding, dispersed camping, rock climbing and hunting, cross-country skiing, 

snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Most of the mountain biking opportunities are in the northeast 

quarter and Franklin Basin areas. Some are considered the premier mountain bike trails in the 

Cache area. Mountain bikes use trails from the Wood Camp Hollow to Jardine Juniper, in Green 

Canyon, Twin Creek, Bunchgrass Creek, White Pine Creek, White Pine Lake, Blind Hollow, and 

Hansen Pond. White Pine Lake is a popular summer dispersed recreation site and offers an 

opportunity for a non-wilderness backcountry experience. Snowmobilers consider this area as 

one of the top area in the nation to snowmobile. The area provides good winter accessibility and 

a long season. Tony Grove area is viewed as valuable for late season snowmobile opportunities. 

Minerals: The majority of minerals are federally owned. There is low potential for oil and gas. 

Range: Cattle and sheep are permitted to graze the area. The area has several range 

improvements especially in the north. Water: The area provides water for Logan, Cache 

Valley, and southern Idaho for irrigation and municipal purposes. Water developments have 

been proposed periodically in the Green Canyon area. Land Uses: There are snow-monitoring 

sites operated by the Natural Resource Conservation Service near Mount Naomi and in Steep 

Hollow. An outfitter guide operates two yurts for cross-country skiers. Roads and Trails: 

There are no roads or motorized trails designated as open included in the roadless area. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is outstanding with limited influence by 

developments. Geological, biological, ecological, educational and historical values are high. The 

geologic and elevation changes contribute to the area’s biodiversity and wildlife habitat. When 

considered with the existing wilderness and the adjacent roadless area on the Caribou, the area is 

a part of a very large undeveloped ecosystem. The area is part of a critical wildlife corridor and 

link between the Yellowstone and Uinta Mountain ecosystems. Steep terrain and topography 

contribute to feelings of solitude and offer challenging experiences. Primitive recreation 

opportunities are abundant. These recreation related values are higher in the southern end and 

more moderate in Green Canyon and Franklin Basin areas. Special Features or Attractions: 

The area is known for its scenic qualities of unique rock formations, steep bowls, and park like 

lands. The Mount Naomi Trail from Tony Grove to High Creek Trailhead has been designated as 

a National Recreational Trail. Logan and Wind Caves and other limestone caverns are special 

geological features. Jardine Juniper is the oldest known tree of this species. Portions of several 

streams such as Bunchgrass Creek, White Pine Creek, and the Logan River have been found 

eligible in the wild and scenic river inventory. Deer, elk, moose, bobcat, cougar, goshawk, 

golden eagle and grouse inhabit the area. There is habitat for numerous species at risk including 

boreal owl, Peregrine falcon, and bald eagle. There has been a reported siting of a wolverine, and 

the area is lynx linkage habitat, and is potential habitat for pine marten. Townsend big-eared bats 

inhabit Logan Cave. Some streams support native fish such as Bonneville Cutthroat. There are 

numerous populations of unique plants, such as threatened plant Maguires primrose, FS sensitive 

plants Maguires draba, Frank Smith violet, Cache beardtongue, Logan buckwheat, Cronquist 

daisy, brownie ladyslipper and rare plants Rydberg musineon and Wasatch rockcress. Several of 

the unique plant species are found in habitats such as on China Wall. Mount Naomi also has rare 

Whitebark Pine habitat. There are some historical and cultural resources related to the 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 14 

development of Cache Valley with moderate to high potential for discovery of American Indian 

sites. The manageability of the boundary of the south unit is aided by terrain and few conflicts 

with outside uses. Boundaries of the northern half are not as easily recognized on the landscape. 

A private inholding in the north half of the roadless area creates potential for future development. 

Need: Mount Naomi roadless area is 10 to 30 miles from Logan, 95 miles from Salt Lake and 

60 miles from Pocatello, Idaho. It is adjacent to the existing Mount Naomi Wilderness. The 

Wellsville Mountain Wilderness is located about 15 miles to the southwest. Opinion on 

wilderness designation for the area is polarized. The area has been a focal point for public 

comment, especially from Logan and the Cache Valley during the roadless inventory and 

analysis process. It has received some of the highest numbers of public comments and is one of 

the most controversial roadless areas in the region. Some felt the existing wilderness area was 

sufficient and that previously excluded westside canyons should remain excluded. Others felt 

these areas should be included to reduce fragmentation of the area. Some felt the south area was 

a valuable wilderness addition, but did not want the northern portion to become wilderness, 

because of snowmobile and mountain bike opportunities. Snowmobiling especially in the 

Franklin Basin and Tony Grove areas is viewed as an important contribution to the local 

economy. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 15 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character

 

Roadless Area: Mount Naomi

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended 

Wilderness (acres) 40,000 20,300 8,200 0 0 8,200 500

Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres)1 40,600 29,400 8,200 0 0 33,900 33,900

Trails Closed to 

Motorized Use From 

Wilderness 

Recommendation 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan 

Trails Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan 

Roads Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Temple Peak #0419023

Acres: Gross: 23,400 

Location and Access: Area is located east of Logan Canyon Highway 89 about 20 miles 

northeast of Logan and 3 miles south of the Idaho State line. It can also be accessed by Temple 

Fork FS road 007, Sinks FS road 055 and Peter Sinks FS road 173. 

Setting: Elevations range from 5,500 to over 9,000 feet. Terrain varies from moderate to steep 

with vegetation consisting of sagebrush, grass, mahogany and maple at lower elevations with 

aspen and fir at higher elevations. 

Availability: Vegetation: There are an estimated 10,000 acres of tentatively suited timber 

within the area. The area is also used for fuel wood gathering. Recreation: Uses include hiking, 

mountain biking, hunting, fishing, dispersed camping, cross-country skiing, motorized recreation 

trail use and snowmobiling. Most trails are open to mountain bike use. Both motorized and 

mechanized recreation use is heavy in the area. Mountain bikers use the Spawn Creek, Little 

Bear, Turkey, Stump Hollow and Burnt Fork and Great Western trails. Sinks Road is a state 

groomed snowmobile route. Snowmobile opportunities in the area are considered ideal for 

families and beginners. The area offers good flyfishing opportunities. Minerals: Minerals are 

federally owned. Range: Sheep and cattle graze on portions of six allotments. Water: The area 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 16 

is part of the Logan municipal watershed. Land uses: Section 21 is part of a special use permit 

for the T.W. Daniel Experimental Forest for Utah State University used extensively for teaching, 

demonstration, and research in natural resources and ecosystem management. It is impacted by 

old cuttings and roads in the area and includes the already approved Bear Hodges Timber Sale. 

This section has been removed from the Temple Peak roadless area. Roads and Trails: 

Boundary locations have eliminated most roads from the area. The area includes several trails, 

some which allow motorized use such as Turkey, Little Bear ATV, and Worm Fence, a segment 

of the great Western Trail. 

Capability: The area is rated moderate in naturalness of the environment. Biological and 

ecological systems are intact though not unique. Motorized use in Stump Hollow and Peters Sink 

has resulted in resource damage and has detracted from the area’s naturalness. Challenging 

experiences can be found but not to the degree they are present in Mount Naomi. Solitude is 

generally low because of heavy recreation use. Opportunities for primitive recreation are 

somewhat limited. Special Features or Attractions: Segments of Beaver Creek, Little Bear 

Creek, Spawn Creek, Temple Fork and Logan River have been found eligible in the wild and 

scenic river inventory. The area has pleasing scenery but nothing unique. The area has a 

diversity of wildlife species. The area is part of a critical wildlife corridor and link between the 

Yellowstone and Uinta Mountain ecosystems. It is important early winter range. Elk utilize the 

area. Most of the area is lynx linkage habitat. Species at risk that are present include boreal owl, 

wolverine, goshawk, Bonneville cutthroat trout, three toed woodpecker, spotted bat, big-eared 

bat, flammulated owl, boreal toad and spotted frog. Bird watching is popular in the area. The rare 

plant, Wasatch rockcress, is present. The area includes historic Temple Fork Sawmill site. 

There is moderate potential for additional historic and American Indian sites. Manageability is 

affected by exclusions of nonconforming uses. There are two very large exclusions – Peter Sinks 

(roads, gravel pit) and Temple Peak (roads, timber sales, state land). 

Need: The area is located about 20 miles from Logan. The nearest wilderness area is Mount 

Naomi about 3 miles to the west. The area has received limited public interest in wilderness 

designation but has received high opposition primarily because of summer and winter motorized 

recreation needs as well as mountain biking opportunities.

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Temple Peak

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres)1

 19,900 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to 

Motorized Use From 0 0 0 0 0 0
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 17 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Temple Peak

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0

Motorized Travel Plan 

Trails Open (miles) 10.1 10.1 10.1 10.1 10.1 10.1 10.1

Motorized Travel Plan 

Roads Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6.

Name: Right Hand Fork Logan #0419028

Acres: Gross: 15,000 

Location and Access: Located about 12 miles from Logan, south of Logan Canyon Highway. 

Access to the area is from Logan canyon highway, and Forest Service roads Right Hand Fork, 

Cowley Canyon and long Hollow. 

Setting: Elevations range from 5,200 feet to 8,000 feet. Much of area is wide valley with open 

sage meadows, aspen and fir in the upper elevations.

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 5,400 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Parts of area have been used for firewood cutting. There is potential for 

use of prescribed fire to improve habitat. Recreation: Mountain biking is very popular. The area 

also attracts hikers, cross-country skiers, motorcycle trail users, anglers, hunters, and campers. 

Motorized use on designated trails and snowmobiling use is heavy. Minerals: Minerals are 

federally owned. The area has low potential for oil. Range: Cattle graze within the area under 

permit. Several range improvements are present. Water: The area is part of Logan City 

municipal watershed. Roads and Trails: The area contains no roads designated as open in the 

district travel plan. Two trails, Steel Hollow and Little Cottonwood, allow motorcycle use. There 

are also non-motorized trails in Ricks Canyon, Willow Creek, Maughan Hollow, and Ephraim’s 

Cutoff. The Great Western Trail passes through the area. 

Capability: The area is rated moderate in naturalness with high biological and ecological 

values because of diverse vegetation and habitat types. Its natural appearance is diminished 

somewhat by the evidence of off-trail use of ATVs. Scenery is rated moderate. Challenge, 

solitude and remoteness are rated moderate. Special Features or Attractions: The Logan River 

and Temple Fork have been found eligible in the wild and scenic river inventory. There is good 

wildlife habitat, particularly in the area of Chicken Creek. Habitat for mountain lions and winter 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 18 

range for elk and deer is present. The area is lynx linkage habitat. Species at risk that are present 

include goshawk, flammulated owl, three toed woodpecker, great gray owl, boreal toad, and 

Bonneville cutthroat trout. There are several TES plants including the threatened plant Maguire 

primrose. There is one known heritage resource site and the area has moderate potential for 

historic and American Indian sites. Because of several nearby sites the area is rated moderate for 

cultural and historic features. The manageability of the area as wilderness is affected by the 

several road exclusions. This is particularly true for Forest Service road 153 (Chicken Creek) 

and its intersecting motorized recreation trail that nearly cuts the area in two. 

Need: The city of Logan is about 12 miles away. The nearest wilderness area is Mount Naomi 

located about 2 miles to the northeast. The majority of the comments received on this area have 

been against wilderness designation. Opponents generally favored the current uses and 

emphasized motorized and mechanical recreation needs. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Right Hand Fork Logan

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres)1 11,000 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to 

Motorized Use From 

Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan 

Trails Open (miles) 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.2

Motorized Travel Plan 

Roads Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Mount Logan North #0419013 

 Mount Logan South #0419029 

 Mount Logan West #0419030

Acres: Gross: North Unit: 19,200 

 South Unit: 17,000 

 West Unit: 5,300 

Location and Access: Mt. Logan Roadless Area is just east of the communities of Logan, 

Providence and Millville. Because of developments since the last inventory the area is now split 

into three distinct units. Logan Canyon Highway 89 forms the northern boundary of the north 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 19 

unit. Private and state land borders the western edge. Roads in Providence Canyon and Millville 

Canyon split the units. Blacksmith Highway 101 forms the southern boundary of the south unit. 

Forest Service road 047 in Cowley Canyon/Herd Canyon forms the eastern edge. 

Availability: Vegetation: The north unit has about 4,900 acres, the south unit 6,100 acres and 

the west unit 1,200 acres of capable and available timber. There is potential for future fuelwood 

gathering and prescribed fire in this area. Recreation: Use includes hiking, horseback riding, 

fishing, hunting, dispersed camping, mountain biking, motorized trail use and snowmobiling. 

The area receives very heavy use for snowmobiling and summer motorized use. Mountain biking 

is takes place on several trails including Card Canyon, Richards Hollow, Richards Elbow, 

Leatham Hollow and the Great Western. Motorized recreation use takes place on South Fork 

Millville, Richards Hollow, Richards Elbow, Cart Hollow, Welches Flat, Card Canyon and some 

other trails. Minerals: Minerals are mostly federally owned except for 765 acres in the entire 

north unit and 252 acres in the south unit. Minerals in the west unit are all federally owned. 

There are no oil and gas leases. Range: The areas include grazing allotments for both cattle and 

sheep. There are several range improvements present. Water: Water is used for Cache Valley 

communities including Logan City’s municipal and irrigation needs. Land Uses: A 1985 Forest 

plan utility corridor follows the southern edge of the south unit. Roads, and Trails: There are 

several non-constructed roads in the units, as well as motorized and non-motorized trails. A few 

of these short road segments in the north and south units are designated open in the District 

travel plan. The Great Western Trail traverses the south unit. 

Capability: The north unit was rated as moderate in the naturalness of its environment with 

some geological and ecological values present. It is considered quite biologically diverse. Steep 

and rugged slope areas provide challenging experiences. Remoteness and solitude values are 

affected by the surrounding development and the popularity of the area. The south and west 

units are viewed as being less natural than the north unit. Special Features or Attractions: 

Logan Peak is a popular destination. Segments of streams found eligible in the wild and scenic 

river inventory included Logan River and Left Hand Fork Blacksmith. Plant species at risk 

present in the northern unit include Maquires primrose, Maquires draba, Frank Smith violet, 

Cache beardtongue, Hopkins tower-mustard, and Rydberg musineon. The southern unit has a 

plant species of concern present, Kings woody-aster. The western unit has no known plants 

species of concern. Scenery throughout the area is typical of similar landscapes with colorful 

autumn colors. Views of Cache Valley are visible from much of the area. There is important 

summer and winter habitat for deer, elk, and moose. Other wildlife present includes bobcats, 

black bear, badger, and raptors including the bald eagle. All 3 units are lynx linkage habitat. The 

northern unit has Bonneville cutthroat and cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. The western unit 

has brown trout while the southern unit has brown trout, cutthroat trout, and whitefish. There are 

no known heritage resources sites, but Shoshone petroglyph sites exist near the area. Potential is 

low to moderate for historic and American Indian sites. Manageability: There are several 

intrusions such as an electronic site and rock quarry. The south unit has a significant road and 

private land exclusions in the White Bedground area on the north side. The west unit is small in 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 20 

size for wilderness. Private and state land and many roads surround nearly all the units. This 

may limit access to the area and encourage trespass of non-conforming uses. 

Need: The area is six miles from Logan and 90 miles north of Salt Lake City. The nearest 

wilderness areas are Mount Naomi, one mile to the north and Wellsville Mountains, ten miles to 

the west. The majority of the public input received was strongly against any wilderness 

designation for these areas. Many of the motorized routes and snowmobile areas are very 

important to the local public. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mount Logan North

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres)1 6,500 900 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized 

Use From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan 

Trails Open (miles) 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1

Motorized Travel Plan 

Roads Open (miles) 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.8

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6.
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 21 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mount Logan South

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 15,900 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mount Logan West

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 4,500 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 22 

Name: Boulder Mountain #0419024 

Acres: Gross: 8,800 

Location and Access: The area is about 10 miles east of Logan. The best access to it is via the 

Left Hand Fork FS road 245. It can also be accessed from Dip Hollow FS road 056, Marie 

Spring FS road 147, Herd Hollow FS road 047 or Mud Spring FS Road 146. 

Setting: Terrain varies from moderate to steep. Elevations range from approximately 5800 to 

7500 feet. To some the area is known as a “high desert”. Vegetation consists of sage grassland in 

the north with steeper aspen and fir slopes to the south. 

Availability: Timber: There are an estimated 3,600 acres of tentatively suited timber within 

the area. Prescribed burns have been done in the area. Recreation: Hunting use is heavy in the 

area. Though not allowed, the area does receive OHV use. Snowmobiles use the area in the 

winter. Minerals: Minerals are federally owned. A mine was active as recently as 1995 for 

exploration of gold. It is currently not being operated. Range: Sheep grazing is allowed within 

three allotments. Many range improvements are present. Water: The little available water is 

used for livestock. Land Uses: A small seismograph station is operated under permit. Roads 

and Trails: There are no routes designated as open for motorized use within the area; however, 

there are many user-created roads and ATV routes in the area. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is moderate and provides some solitude. It 

has high values for biological diversity and wildlife habitat. Because much of the area is difficult 

to access, it is rated moderate for challenge and primitive recreation opportunities. Special 

Features or Attractions: The Left Hand Fork of the Blacksmith was found eligible in the wild 

and scenic river inventory. Scenery values are moderate to high. Important wildlife habitat is 

provided for elk and deer. The area is lynx linkage habitat. Species at risk that are present 

include goshawk, flammulated owl, three toed woodpecker, great gray owl, boreal toad, and 

Bonneville cutthroat trout. Area has some Indian rock art. There is moderate potential for 

historic and American Indian sites. The manageability of the area as wilderness would be 

difficult. About 50% of the northern boundary is adjacent to private land. Though excluded from 

the area, Forest road 146 from the northeast to Mud Springs nearly bisects the area in two and 

would make the area difficult to manage as wilderness. 

Need: The area is located about 30 miles from Logan, the nearest population center. The nearest 

wilderness area is Mount Naomi about 10 miles to the northwest. The area received limited 

public comment with the majority not favoring wilderness mainly because of motorized 

recreation needs.
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 23 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Boulder Mountain

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 8,300 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Elk Valley #0419039 

Acres: Gross: 8,200 

This is a new roadless area in the FEIS that did not appear in the DEIS. It was identified late in 

the process by the Forest Service. 

Location and Access: Area is located on the south east side of the Logan Ranger District in the 

Wasatch Range, about 15 miles east of Logan and 10 miles southwest of Bear Lake. Most of the 

access is by going north from Hardware Ranch or south of Highway 89 from Bear Lake Summit 

on the Sinks to Hardware Ranch Forest Service road. 

Setting: Elevations range from 6500 to over 8,000 feet. Much of the area is a wide high 

elevation valley with upper sage meadows and some aspen and fir pockets in higher elevations. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: Timber sale areas have been excluded from the roadless 

area, there are some adjacent to the roadless area southwest of Temple Flat. There is some 

potential for suitable timber in that area. Some locations of the area are also used for fuelwood 

gathering. The area has potential for prescribed burns to benefit habitat improvement. 

Recreation: The area receives a high amount of summer motorized recreation use for four 

wheel drive, ATV and motorcycles. There is a severe problem of illegal off-road use in this area. 

The area also receives dispersed camping and hunting use. In the winter, this area is popular for 

snowmobiling. The Elk Valley - Sinks road is a State of Utah groomed snowmobile route. 

Snowmobile opportunities in the area are good for families and beginners. Minerals: Most of 

the area has Federal mineral rights except for the state inholding. Range: The area does have 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 24 

permitted grazing for sheep and cattle on parts of five allotments. Water: The area is fairly dry 

with some scattered springs and intermittent streams. Roads and Trails: The area is a critical 

high use summer and winter motorized and mechanized recreation and dispersed recreation area. 

The area is networked with roads and trails. Cherry stems have excluded constructed travel plan 

roads from the inventoried roadless area. The area includes several miles of system trails of 

which many allow motorized use such as the Elk Valley Divide Trail 2033. Old road remnants 

and illegally created user roads and trails are found throughout the area. Fire: The area has 

moderate fire potential. Insect and Disease: The area has few insect and disease problems. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is low due to livestock trailing and illegal trail 

and road creation from some recreation users. Geological and educational values of the area are 

low. Biological and ecological values are moderate. The area offers good wildlife and TES 

species habitat. The area is lynx linkage habitat. Scenery is common and unspectacular. The 

potential for challenging experiences moderate. Solitude is generally low because of heavy 

dispersed recreation, but because of the area’s remoteness, high solitude may be found in 

portions of the area at some times. Opportunities for primitive recreation are somewhat limited 

because of motorized activities. The high volume of illegal routes detracts from potential 

Wilderness values. Manageability of the area would be difficult due to the several road cherry 

stems into it. Special Features or Attractions include the Ephraim’s Grave Grizzly Bear site. 

There is moderate potential for additional historic and American Indian sites. 

Need: The area is a long drive (50 to 60 miles) from Logan. The nearest wilderness area is 

Mount Naomi about 12 miles to the northwest. The Wellsville Mountain Wilderness is 25 miles 

to the west. The area has received no public interest in wilderness designation. Many motorized 

use advocates in the Logan area have voiced substantial opposition to any recommendation for 

additional Wilderness on the Logan Ranger District. No one realized the area qualified for 

roadless acreage until late in the process, when the Forest Service identified it. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Elk Valley

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0000 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 25 

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Mahogany Range #0419025 

Acres: Gross: 11,400 

Location and Access: The area is located about 10 miles east of Hyrum. Access is primarily by 

state highway 101 along the Blacksmith Fork. The Left Hand Fork FS Road 245 along the 

northern border of the unit is also a key access point. 

Setting: The area has an expanse of mahogany, which is very valuable for wildlife habitat. 

Elevation ranges approximately from 5,100 to 7,500 feet. Much of the area is dry open 

sage/grass. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 1,200 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Prescribed fire is used to improve wildlife habitat and range suitability. 

Recreation: The area is open in the summer for motorized recreation. Uses include motorized 

recreation, dispersed camping, hunting, wildlife viewing, some mountain biking, and some 

hiking. The area is popular for horseback riding and OHV use. The area is closed to 

snowmobiling. Minerals: The minerals are federally owned. Range: The area is part of two 

grazing allotments and there are many range improvements in the area. Water: The few natural 

springs provide water for wildlife and livestock. Land uses: A 1985 Forest plan utility corridor 

crosses the southern portion of the area. Roads and Trails: There is one short segment of a low 

maintenance road, Pig Hole Spring, designated as open on the travel plan. The area has many 

user-created tracks that are not designated as open. There are non-motorized tails into Hogs 

Hollow, Pigs Hole and Sow Hole. Motorized access is also used for vegetation treatment as well 

as by grazing permittees. 

Capability: The naturalness of the area is rated moderate with high values for biological, 

ecological and wildlife. Unauthorized motorized use has resulted in resource damage in some 

areas and detracts from the natural appearance. Challenging experiences, solitude and 

opportunities for primitive recreation are listed as moderate. Special Features or Attractions: 

The unique complex of vegetative types and terrain, as well as being adjacent to the Hardware 

Ranch Wildlife Management Area provides special wildlife habitat. The area is particularly 

important in the winter and spring for deer, elk, moose, cougar, and bobcat. Most of the area is 

lynx linkage habitat. Species at risk that are present include goshawk, flammulated owl, three 

toed woodpecker, great gray owl, boreal toad, and Bonneville cutthroat trout. There are brown 

trout, brook trout, and whitefish. The Left Hand Fork of the Blacksmith was found eligible in 

the wild and scenic river inventory. The area does have sites of Shoshone Indian rock art. There 

is low to moderate potential for other historic and American Indian sites. The manageability of 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 26 

the area as wilderness would be hindered because the boundaries are along roads. Surrounding 

state and private land contribute to the complexity. 

Need: The area is about 20 miles from Logan, the nearest major population center. The nearest 

wilderness area is Mount Naomi about 10 miles to the north. The area received limited public 

comment, but the majority of those did not favor wilderness designation. The area could add an 

ecosystem type that is currently not common in our wilderness areas. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mahogany Range

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 6,300 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Mollens Hollow #0419015 

Acres: Gross: 17,700 

Location and Access: The area is 3 miles east of Hardware Ranch in Cache County. Access is 

via Forest Service road 059 Curtis Creek. 

Setting: Steep slopes characterize canyons while the terrain is more rolling in other areas. 

Elevations range from 6,000 feet to 8,600 feet. The area has a sinkhole where a stream 

disappears. The area has the largest stand of pinyon pine on the Cache portion of the Forest. Fir, 

spruce and aspen characterize north and east slopes. Mountain mahogany, maple, snowberry and 

juniper are found on the southern and western exposures. 

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: There are 6,700 acres of tentatively suited timber 

within the area. Select trees with insect problems were removed as recently as 1998. Prescribed 

fire has been used for habitat improvement and aspen regeneration. Recreation: Recreation use 

is generally light. There is some hiking, horseback riding, and hunting. Tilda Springs is a popular 

ATV trail network. The State of Utah is interested in providing additional trails in partnership 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 27 

with the Forest. The area receives heavy snowmobile use and parts of it are known as a 

snowmobile play area. Minerals: About 800 acres have private mineral rights. The area has 

some potential for oil and gas. Range: Sheep and cattle graze the area. There are many range 

improvements. Water: There are no formal culinary water uses. Land Uses: A 1985 Plan 

utility corridor crosses the northwest corner. Roads and Trails: There are no constructed roads 

present. Tilda Springs is a network of ATV trails. There are a few low maintenance nonmotorized trails. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is fair. Past overgrazing and user created 

ATV routes have compromised its natural appearance. Mollens Hollow RNA offers intact 

ecological and biological systems and provides research opportunities. Opportunities for solitude

and primitive recreation are somewhat limited. Special Features or Attractions: The area 

includes the 1,186 acre Mollens Hollow Research Natural Area (RNA). The area does offer some 

unique scenery. Important fall and winter range for deer and elk. Most of the area is lynx linkage

habitat. The area has potential to support cutthroat trout, but its presence has not been verified. 

Cache beardtongue and Logan buckwheat, two sensitive plants, are present. There is one known 

heritage resource site. The area has moderate potential for the presence of historic and American 

Indian sites. Manageability is affected by the open terrain, which makes it difficult to manage 

motorized use. There are several roads that have been excluded by cherry stems that access the 

area. 

Need: The area is about 85 miles from Salt Lake, 25 miles from Logan and 45 miles from 

Ogden. Mount Naomi and the Wellsville Mountains are the nearest wilderness areas. Interest in 

the area has generally been limited. A few felt that it was a good example of what a mid 

elevation wilderness could be, which is not common in Northern Utah. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mollens Hollow

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 17,400 17,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200

Trails Closed to Motorized Use From 

Wilderness Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open 

(miles) 7.6 7.6 7.6 7.6 7.6 7.6 7.6

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 28 

Name: Wellsville Mountains #0419014 

Acres: Gross: 1,800 

Location and Access: The Wellsville Mountains are located just north of Brigham City and 

west of Hyrum and Logan. Access to the Wellsville Mountains is somewhat limited, especially 

on the west side because of private lands. Deep Canyon and Maple Bench in the northeast 

quadrant of the range are the key recreation access points. Highway 89 to Logan briefly crosses 

the Forest by Wellsville Canyon. The roadless area is composed of several different units all of 

which are contiguous with the Wellsville Wilderness. 

Setting: Much of the remaining roadless area is lower elevation country 4,500 to 6,000 feet and 

primarily grassland with scattered patches of rock and trees. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There is no tentatively suited timber within the area. 

Recreation: Primarily uses of these areas are hiking, horseback riding, hunting, bird watching, a 

few mountain bike opportunities and some winter recreation including snowmobiles, snowshoers 

and cross-country skiers. There are possible opportunities for additional recreation development 

at Deep Canyon and Maple Bench. Minerals: Almost all of the minerals are federally owned. 

The area has low potential for oil and gas and some potential for uranium and geothermal 

activities. The west side also has some potential for gravel pits development. Range: Cattle 

under permit graze most of the area. Range improvements are present. Water: Much of the area 

is an important municipal watershed for local communities. Land uses: All but one of the 

parcels have water developments for local communities. A utility corridor from the 1985 Plan 

crosses the western edge of a few of the units. Roads and Trails: There are no roads or 

motorized trails designated as open. There may be a few user-created roads. 

Capability: The area is rated moderate for naturalness of the environment and ecological 

values. The current areas of roadless have less wilderness character than the existing wilderness. 

Opportunities for solitude are high because of the low use the area receives and limited access. 

There are opportunities for primitive recreation and challenging experiences. Special Features 

or Attractions: Raptor populations and fall migration routes are important. There is habitat for 

endangered peregrine falcon. Much of area is essential habitat for deer winter range. The area 

has been identified as potential habitat for bighorn sheep. There are some significant 

archaeological sites in the mountain range from the Shoshone tribe. There is low potential for 

historic sites. Manageability: There are few identifiable features to aid in boundary location. 

Need: Most of the Wellsville Mountains is already designated wilderness. The area is about 15 

miles from Logan and about 70 miles from Salt Lake. Very little public support for wilderness 

additions to the existing wilderness has been voiced. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 29 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Wellsville Mountains

Management Area: Cache-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 1,700 40 40 0 0 40 40

Wilderness Character Protected (acres)1 1,700 40 40 0 0 40 40

Trails Closed to Motorized Use From 

Wilderness Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 30 

Bear Management Area 

Name: Swan Creek Mountain #0419001 

Acres: Gross: 9,400

Location and Access: The Swan Creek Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA) straddles the 

Idaho/Utah border about 3 miles west of Bear Lake. It is shared with the Caribou National 

Forest though this report refers only to the Utah portion. It is located in Rich and Cache 

Counties. Logan Canyon Highway 89 is the southern boundary, Beaver Creek Road 011 is the 

western boundary, the state line is the northern boundary and the Forest boundary is the eastern 

boundary. The Swan Flat Road 014 splits the Utah portion into two areas. Access to the area is 

via Swan Flat, Beaver Creek and Logan Canyon Highway roads. 

Setting: The topography is generally steep, but is rolling and gentle in some places. Elevation 

ranges from 7,400 to 9,082 feet. Vegetation consists primarily of sagebrush, grass, mahogany, 

and maple at lower elevations and aspen and fir at higher elevations. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 3,500 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. The area has potential for fuel treatment needs. Recreation: Hunting, 

hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing are popular recreation uses. The area is well suited 

for beginner and family snowmobile opportunities and has a highly used backcountry ski area 

(Garden City Canyon). New developments in Bear Lake Area have increased use in the area. 

Minerals: Minerals are mostly federally owned except for around 300 acres of State-owned 

minerals. There are no oil and gas leases within the area. Range: Sheep grazing is allowed 

under permit. Water use: The area is within Logan City Municipal watershed. Land uses: A 

fiber optic line traverses the southern boundary. A snowmobile rental and guide service operates 

under permit in the area and also guides horseback trips in the summer. Roads and Trails: 

There are no routes designated as open for motorized use within the area; however, there are 

many user-created roads and ATV routes in the area. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is low to moderate. The natural 

appearance of the area is highly impacted by the appearance of management activities and 

facilities. The area provides limited challenge, solitude and remoteness because of its small size 

and the presence of the Swan Flat Road. Opportunities for primitive recreation are average. 

Special Features or Attractions: The area is important year-round range for deer and summer 

range for elk and a few moose. Lynx linkage habitat is present. The area generally provides 

good habitat for wildlife and sensitive species. A portion is adjacent to a state Wildlife 

Management Area. Beaver Creek drainage has Bonneville cutthroat trout present. One known 

heritage site is present with moderate potential for discovery of other historic and American 

Indian sites. Scenic features are moderate. Bear Lake is visible from numerous vantage points. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 31 

The manageability of the area as wilderness would be difficult because of the Swan Flat Road 

exclusion. 

Need: The area does not significantly contribute to the distribution of wilderness in Northern 

Utah, is not a unique landform, limited in primitive non-motorized recreation opportunities and 

limited in the ability to contribute to research. The area has received limited interest by the 

public, other groups and agencies for wilderness designation. The nearest wilderness is Mount 

Naomi about 7 miles away to the west. The area is 20 miles from Logan and 100 miles from Salt 

Lake. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Swan Creek

Management Area: Bear

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 19,900 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Rock Creek—Green Fork #0419034 

Acres: Gross: 5,600 

Location and Access: Area is about 7 miles east of Hardware Ranch straddling the Cache and 

Rich County lines. It is also about 8 miles west of the community of Randolph. Access is 

primarily from forest roads out of Elk Valley and Curtis Creek or via private and BLM roads 

leaving Randolph. 

Setting: Rounded mountain terrain with predominately east-west drainage patterns characterizes 

the landscape. The forest is a mix of lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, sub-alpine fir and Englemann 

spruce. Lower elevations have chokecherry, serviceberry, mountain mahogany and sagebrush. 

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: There are an estimated 2,700 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. An adjacent section owned by the State of Utah has had extensive timber 

harvesting. The area is also used for fuel wood gathering. Prescribed fire has been used for aspen 

treatments and fuel reduction. Recreation: The area receives limited recreation use; primarily 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 32 

hunting, hiking and horse riding. There is some snowmobiling and some mountain bike use in 

the area. Access from Old Canyon road along the southern boundary of this area has a large 

amount of dispersed camping especially during the hunting season. Minerals: Minerals are most 

federally owned, but approximately 300 acres are private or state owned. Range: Sheep and 

cattle graze throughout the area in parts of four allotments. The area contains several range 

improvements. Water: Blacksmith Fork, which originates in the area, provides irrigation water. 

Land Uses: A 1985 plan utility corridor crosses much of the northern portion. Roads and 

Trails: The area contains no system roads. There are no routes designated as open for motorized 

use within the area; however, there are many unauthorized roads and ATV routes in the area. 

Road number 26981 is used to access a private forty-acre parcel within this area. There is a trail 

going up Rock Creek. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is low. Evidence of human activity is 

present. The area has little wilderness character. Opportunities for solitude and challenging 

experiences are low. Special Features or Attractions: Locally significant small caves are 

located near the southern boundary. Goshawk, Coopers hawk and other raptors inhabit this area. 

Rock Creek has Bonneville cutthroat trout. The area is lynx linkage habitat. It is important for 

big game summer range. There are no known heritage resource sites, but there is moderate to 

high potential for historic and American Indian sites. The shape of the area presents difficulty in 

manageability. Without acquisition of state land, the area is very narrow with less than 1⁄4 mile 

between old timber sales the state land in section 32. 

Need: Because of manageability difficulties, this area has limited value as wilderness. No public 

interest on this area as wilderness has been received. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Characteristics 

Roadless Area: Rock Creek - Green Fork

Management Area: Bear

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 2,940 2,940 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness Recommendation 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 33 

Name: Sugar Pine #0419031

Acres: Gross: 5,600 

Location and Access: The area is located in the Monte Cristo area, just east of Monte Cristo 

Campground. Most of the access to the area is via Highway 39. 

Setting: Elevations range from 7,600 to 8,900 feet. Key vegetation habitat consists of spruce, fir 

and Douglas fir forest, aspen and grass. The drier, south facing hillsides have a sagebrush and 

grass community. 

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: There are an estimated 3,600 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Prescribed burning has been used to improve wildlife habitat. 

Recreation: The area receives limited recreation use, primarily hiking, mountain biking, horse 

riding, fishing, and hunting. There is snowmobile use adjacent to Highway 39. Minerals:

Minerals are federally owned except for about 60 acres of privately owned minerals. Range:

Cattle graze under permit throughout the area. Numerous constructed range improvements such 

as stock ponds, troughs, pipelines, spring developments, water systems, and fences are present. 

Water: Sugar Pine Creek and its tributaries are used primarily for agricultural uses. Land 

Uses: A 1985 Forest Plan utility corridor crosses much of the southern end of the roadless area. 

Roads and Trails: The area has no system roads nor system recreation trails; however, there are 

many user-created routes present. 

Capability: The naturalness of the area is low because of the many range improvements 

present and the many user-created roads. The area is moderate in geological, ecological and 

biological values. Nothing is unique about the area. There are limestone sinks in the Cave Ridge 

area. Evidence of human presence on the landscape detracts from the opportunities for solitude. 

Challenging experiences and primitive recreation opportunities are low. Special Features or 

Attractions: Sugar Pine Creek has Bonneville cutthroat trout. The area may have goshawk and 

boreal toad habitat. Lynx linkage habitat is present. There is summer range for elk, deer, and 

moose. There is an historic mill site along Sugar Pine Creek and some old CCC spring 

developments are present. The area has moderate potential for historic and American Indian 

sites. The manageability of this area as wilderness is very limited. The northern and eastern 

boundaries are adjacent to private land and could increase the complexity for managing the area 

as wilderness. 

Need: The area would not contribute to the national wilderness system; it is a small isolated 

primarily range area, located quite a distance from the Wasatch front. No public comments have 

been received promoting this area as wilderness. The area does provide for some primitive 

recreation such as hunting outside the wilderness. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 34 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character

Roadless Area: Sugar Pine

Management Area: Bear

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 4,888 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness Recommendation 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 35 

North Wasatch-Ogden Valley Management Area

Name: Upper South Fork #0419018 

Acres: Gross: 17,300 

Location and Access: The area lies 25 miles east of Ogden and due east of the South Fork of the 

Ogden River. Access is via Forest Service road 039 to Causey Reservoir and Highway 39 at the 

north end near Monte Cristo. 

Setting: Elevations range from 5,700 feet to about 8,000 feet. Rounded ridge tops and very 

steep drainages with sheer cliffs characterize the area’s topography. South and west slope 

vegetation typically includes mountain mahogany, serviceberry, Gambel oak, sagebrush and 

grass, while on north and east slopes there is fir, spruce, maple, snowberry and chokecherry. 

Cottonwood is present in the riparian habitats. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 4,800 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Prescribed burning has been used for habitat improvement and aspen 

regeneration. There is a partnership with Deseret Land and Livestock on the east side for 

prescribed burning. Recreation: The area is popular as undeveloped backcountry. Most of area 

is closed to motorized recreation and snowmobiling, though there is some limited snowmobiling 

on north end. Primary uses include hiking, horseback riding, backpacking, fishing and hunting. 

Day hiking is popular from Causey Reservoir, as well as hunting by foot or horseback. Mountain 

bikes use the Bluebell Flat area. Minerals: About 50% of the minerals in the area are privately 

owned. The area has had some minor mining historically. The area has low potential for oil and 

gas. Range: Sheep graze under permit in the north end. There are some range improvements. 

Water: Water from the area contributes to Ogden City’s water supply, though most of the 

headwaters are on private land. Land Uses: There is a snow-monitoring site operated by the 

Natural Resource Conservation Service in the Bluebell Flat area. Roads and Trails: No system 

roads are present. There are non-motorized trails in Wheatgrass Canyon, and in the Bear Hollow, 

Baldy Ridge, and Cabin Hollow areas. 

Capability: The naturalness of the area is outstanding with little evidence of human intrusion 

except near Causey Reservoir. The scenic quality is enhanced by highly varied vegetation and 

geologic patterns. There are several canyons and caves. Geological, biological, ecological and 

wildlife values are rated moderate to high. Opportunities for solitude are high. The area receives 

low to moderate use. The area provides excellent opportunities for primitive recreation. The 

rugged and wild terrain provides visitors with challenging experiences. Special Features or 

Attractions: The Left Fork of the South Fork of the Ogden River was found eligible in the wild 

and scenic river inventory. The area is an important winter range for deer, elk and moose. Little 

survey work has been completed in this area for species at risk. Small animals and birds 

including raptors are common. The area has a cave inhabited by Townsend big-ear bats. 

Bonneville cutthroat trout are present as is a healthy rainbow trout fishery. Kokanee salmon 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 36 

migrating from Causey Reservoir spawn in creeks in the area. The area is lynx linkage habitat. 

The area has no known heritage sites, but has moderate potential for discovery of historic and 

American Indian sites. Manageability as wilderness is affected by being surrounded on 3 sides 

by private land and having 50% of the minerals are privately owned. These create the potential 

for future non-conforming uses in and around the area. The area is long and narrow and in some 

places down to one mile wide. Forest Service road 201, Bluebell Flat road, has been excluded. 

Need: The area is located about 20 miles away from Ogden. Salt Lake City is about 70 miles 

away. The area is a fair distance from the nearest wilderness areas, with Mount Naomi 50 miles 

to the north and Mount Olympus 60 miles to the south. Some feel there is a need for a designated 

wilderness in the Ogden vicinity. Interest in the area has been moderate with little opposition for 

wilderness designation. The area represents an ecosystem type that is not common compared to 

the other higher elevation wilderness areas on the Forest. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Characteristics 

Roadless Area: Upper South Fork

Management Area: North Wasatch-Ogden

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 17,200 0 17,200 0 0 14,400 14,200

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 17,200 15,100 17,200 0 0 14,400 14,200

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Willard #0419016 

Acres: Gross: 19,100 

Location and Access: The area lies on the western slope of the Wasatch Range between North 

Ogden and Brigham City. Private lands surrounding most of the area limit and restrict much of 

the access. 

Setting: The area is steep and rugged and dominated by peaks such as Chilly, Ben Lomond, 

Willard and Grizzly. Elevation ranges from approximately 5,500 feet to 9,764 feet. The 

vegetation varies from grass and oak brush in the lower elevations, aspen and maple in the mid-
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 37 

slopes, to patches of fir and alpine in the high country. Rock outcroppings and cliffs intermingle 

between the vegetation. 

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: There are an estimated 3,100 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Recreation: Ben Lomond is a popular hike. Motorcycles and mountain 

bikes use the Wasatch Crest Trail (part of Great Western Trail). Some snowmobile use occurs on 

the eastern slopes. Minerals: The majority, approximately 75%, of minerals is privately owned. 

A few acres of state mineral rights are present. The area has had historic mining, but currently 

there are no active claims. Range: The area has no grazing allotments. Water: The area is an 

important watershed to local communities. Land Uses: A snow-monitoring site operated by the 

Natural Resource Conservation Service is located on Ben Lomond Peak. A 1985 Forest Plan 

utility corridor crosses the western and southern edges of the roadless area. Avalanche control 

work is done at North Ogden Divide. Roads and Trails: Wasatch Crest Trail allows for 

motorized use. Two short segments of roads allowing motorized use are present: Grizzly Peak 

(FS20092) and Duck Flat (FS26010). There are many user-created roads and ATV routes in the 

area. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment area is rated moderate. There is some 

evidence of human activity with several areas of old watershed terracing present (462 acres). 

Most are not substantially noticeable. Solitude is moderate since the Willard Basin Road nearly 

dissects the area. Noise from avalanche control work detracts from the sense of remoteness in 

the winter. Challenging experiences are present because the terrain is wild and steep. Primitive 

unconfined recreation opportunities are limited. Special Features or Attractions: The area has 

big game winter and summer range. Prime habitat for raptors is present including a significant 

bald eagle roost area. Mountain goats have been introduced to the area. Several populations of 

sensitive and rare plants are present including Burkes draba, Utah ivesia, Wasatch fitweed and 

Wasatch rockcress. Willard Creek was found eligible to be in the Wild and Scenic River 

inventory for its outstanding geological values. Outstanding vistas can be seen from Ben 

Lomond Peak. The area contains a CCC camp and evidence of their work is present in Willard 

Basin. Manageability as wilderness is hampered since most of the area is surrounded by private 

or state land and has eight different parcels of private and state inholdings. 

Need: The area is between wilderness areas to the north (Wellsville Mountains, Mt Naomi) and 

to the south (Mt Olympus, Twin Peaks, Lone Peak). Much of the area is similar to these 

wilderness areas, very little uniqueness and would not add much to the wilderness system. The 

area is valuable for providing recreation that is not dependent on the wilderness resource. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 38 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Characteristics 

Roadless Area: Willard

Management Area: North Wasatch-Box Elder

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 8,300 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 18,800 18,400 0 0 0 0 11,400

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 6.0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 2.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Lewis Peak #0419017 

Acres: Gross: 12,100 

Location and Access: The area is located in the Wasatch Range east of the cities of Ogden and 

North Ogden. Access to the area is via North Ogden Canyon road. 

Setting: Elevations range from 4,599 feet on the western boundary to 8,031 feet on Lewis Peak. 

South and west slopes are vegetated with Gambels oak, mountain mahogany, juniper, sagebrush 

and grass. Maple, fir, aspen, chokecherry and mountain ash characterize north and east slopes. 

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: There are an estimated 300 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Prescribed burning has been used for wildlife habitat improvements and 

fuels reduction improvements. Recreation: Use includes hiking, horseback riding, motorcycle 

riding, winter non-motorized recreation, hunting and rock climbing. The area may receive a little 

snowmobiling use on the east side. Several of the trails are motorized and receive heavy 

motorcycle use. The area has been the focus of recent partnership with State of Utah for making 

trail improvements. These trails are some of the few system motorized trail opportunities on the 

Ogden District. The Wasatch Crest Trail, part of the Great Western Trail, traverses the area. 

There are several user-created trails in side canyons near the urban Wasatch Front. The area is 

being considered for possible location of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Minerals: The 

majority, approximately 75%, of minerals is privately owned. There is low oil and gas potential 

and no leases present. Range: The area has no permitted livestock. Water: The area is a 

municipal watershed for Ogden and North Ogden cities. The east side is an important watershed 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 39 

for Pineview Reservoir. Land Uses: Utility corridors are present in Ogden and North Ogden 

Canyons and along the Wasatch Front. North Ogden City has a water system in Coldwater 

Canyon which needs maintenance access. There are other small water lines present. Nordic 

Valley Ski Area expansion that would expand into the area has been proposed. Roads and 

Trails: The area contains no roads. Most of the trails in the area are open (Wasatch Crest 2001, 

City View 2040 and Lewis Peak 2041) for motorcycle use. Fire: Proximity to Ogden City has 

caused a high occurrence of fires in the past. Insect and Disease: There are few insect and 

disease problems. 

Capability: The areas naturalness of the environment is excellent. It is rated moderate for 

geological, biological and ecological values. Development at Pineview Reservoir, Nordic Valley 

Ski Area and along the Wasatch Front is visible. Opportunities for solitude are somewhat 

limited, due to inadequate vegetation screening and topography and being within the sights and 

sounds of the city. Challenging experiences and primitive recreation opportunities are excellent, 

due to its wild, rugged terrain along the Wasatch Front with steep canyons and rock cliffs. There 

are flat meadows on top allowing for recreation use on trails. Special Features and 

Attractions: The area is rated moderate for wildlife and TES habitat. The area has habitat for 

peregrine falcon and other raptors. The west side serves as important deer winter range. There 

are also elk, moose and various small animals and birds in the area. The area has rare plant, 

broadleaf beardtongue present. Scenic values are above average. There are no known heritage 

resources sites. The area has moderate potential for historic and American Indian sites. 

Manageability: Most the area is surrounded by private land. The extent of private mineral 

ownership also hampers potential manageability as wilderness. 

Need: The area is adjacent to the city of Ogden. The nearest wilderness is the Wellsville 

Mountains, about 20 miles to the north and Mount Olympus, about 45 miles to the south. The 

area has received limited public comments on recommending the area for wilderness. The 

ecosystem types are represented in other existing wilderness areas. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Characteristics

Roadless Area: Lewis Peak

Management Area: North Wasatch-Ogden

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 12,100 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 12,100 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness Recommendation 

(miles) 16.5 0 0 0 0 0 0
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 40 

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open 

(miles) 0 16.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 16.5

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Burch Creek #0419019

Acres: Gross: 6,900 

Location and Access: The area is located in the Wasatch Range just east of the towns of 

Ogden, South Ogden and Uintah. Access is from the Wasatch Front, Interstate 84 and State 

Highway 226 to Snow Basin Ski Area. 

Setting: The country is steep with varied geologic and vegetation patterns. South and west slope 

vegetation typically includes mountain mahogany, serviceberry, Gambel oak, sagebrush and 

grass. Douglas fir, subalpine fir, Englemann spruce, maple, snowberry and chokecherry are 

found on the north and east slopes. Elevations range from 4,500 feet to 9,572 foot Mount Ogden.

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 100 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Prescribed fire has been used for wildlife habitat manipulation. 

Recreation: Use includes day hiking, some backpacking, mountain biking, non-motorized 

winter recreation and hunting. Ski area development along the ridgeline is directly adjacent to 

the area. Minerals: The majority, approximately 65%, of minerals is privately owned. There is 

no known mineral potential or current activity. The area is not leased for oil and gas. Range:

There are no permitted livestock. Water: The area is a valuable municipal watershed to Ogden 

and Uintah cities. Land Uses: The feasibility of a tram from Weber State University to 

Strawberry Peak has been studied though is not currently being considered. A 1985 Forest plan 

utility corridor crosses the southern portion above Interstate 84. Mount Ogden, directly adjacent 

to the area, has a communication site, which can require helicopter landings. Roads and Trails: 

The Beus Canyon Trail, ascending Mount Ogden, is part of the Great Western Trail system. An 

additional length of the Great Western Trail is proposed in the upper ridgeline area from 

Strawberry Peak to Ogden Canyon. A portion of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, which allows 

mountain bikes, has been completed between Beus and Strong Canyons near the urban interface. 

Fire: Fire occurrence and danger is high near Ogden City and in Weber Canyon. High value 

homes are located not far from the area. Insect and Disease: There is no disease or insect 

infestation. 

Capability: A mostly natural environment is present. In some locations in the roadless area, a 

visitor’s sense of solitude is diminished from the sights and sounds of nearby development. It is 

moderate for providing biological and wildlife values. Opportunities for primitive recreation

are moderate, limited somewhat by the size of the area and screening from vegetation. The area 

provides a unique, unconfined experience for urban users in the Ogden area. The rocky, steep, 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 41 

rugged terrain provides challenging experiences. Special Features or Attractions: Peregrine 

falcon habitat exists. Lower Weber Canyon is important deer and moose winter range. A variety 

of small birds and mammals exist. Burch Creek has rainbow trout. There is a Forest Service 

sensitive plant, Burkes draba present. The area has one known heritage site and moderate 

potential for historic and American Indian sites. Manageability of the area as wilderness is 

somewhat hindered given it is surrounded by urban development, private land and is adjacent to 

the Snowbasin Ski area. 

Need: The area is located adjacent to south Ogden. The nearest wilderness area is Mount 

Olympus, about 40 miles to the south. Much of the area is very similar to other Wasatch front 

wilderness areas. The area received few public comments, although there is high interest in the 

area because of nearby Olympic developments and the proposed tram. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects toWilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Burch Creek

Management Area: North Wasatch-Ogden

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 6,900 0 0 0 0 0 0

Roadless/Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres)1 6,900 6,900 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Francis #0419010 

Acres: Gross: 14,800

Between the Draft and Final EIS, it was decided to combine the North Francis Roadless Area 

with what had been called the Middle Francis and South Francis Roadless Areas for the purposes 

of consideration for Wilderness. In the DEIS the Middle (3,294 acres) and South Francis (3,372 

acres) had been considered too small to meet minimum size criteria for roadless (5,000 acres). 

Upon further examination the interdisciplinary team determined that the cultural barriers (minor 

powerlines and blocks of private lands of similar roadless character) which had been considered 

area separators during preparation of the DEIS did not significantly interrupt the predominantly 

undeveloped nature of this landscape and that the Middle and South areas should be combined 

with North Francis. The nature of the combined roadless area is described below.
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 42 

Location and Access: The area lies mostly on the western slope of the Wasatch Range east of 

Layton, south of Interstate 84, north of Farmington Canyon Road, and west of Francis Peak 

Road. Trails from Fernwood Picnic Area, Adams Canyon and the Great Western trail segment 

from Francis Peak Radar Station can access area. 

Setting: The topography is steep and rugged, with elevations ranging from 4,500 feet near the 

valley to 9,707 feet at Thurston Peak. Drainages such as Hobbs Canyon, Adams Canyon, Bair 

Canyon, and Shepard Creek cut through the area. Vegetation at lower elevations consists of 

Gambels oak, maple and grasses. Aspen and fir grow in patches on higher slopes, along with a 

few remnants of whitebark pine. The Great Salt Lake Valley, Antelope Island, Weber River 

Valley and Morgan Valley are visible from many vantage points. 

 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are 140 acres of tentatively suited timber within the 

area. Recreation: Use includes hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting and some 

winter recreation activities. A popular hike is from the Francis Peak Federal Aviation radar 

facility in the south along the Great Western Trail to the top of 9,707 foot Thurston Peak. This 

portion of the trail also receives some mountain bike use. The Great Western Trail also receives 

use out of Fernwood Picnic Area. Adams Canyon is another recreation trail with a trailhead on 

the Wasatch Front. Portions of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail near Fernwood currently exist or 

are being planned. Other canyons such as Hobbs Canyon also receive some dispersed recreation 

use. Minerals: The majority of minerals, about 2/3, are privately owned. Range: Sheep graze 

under permit on the Morgan County portion. Water: The area serves as municipal watershed 

for local communities. Land Uses: A portion of the area is within the permitted area for 

heliskiing. A 1985 Forest plan utility corridor crosses the western portion of the area. Roads and 

Trails: The area contains no roads, but has some recreation trails. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment remains intact with little influence of human 

activities. The southern portions of the area are more human influenced than in the north due to 

the presence of the adjacent roads and facilities in Farmington Canyon and along the road to 

Francis Peak. Opportunities for solitude and challenging experiences are generally good though 

in a few locations in the roadless area, a visitor’s sense of solitude is diminished from the sights 

and sounds of nearby development. Special Features or Attractions: Thurston Peak is the 

highest point in Davis County. There is habitat for peregrine falcon and bald eagle. Summer 

and winter range are present for deer, elk and few moose along with the usual variety of small 

birds and animals. The area has some of the most remote and spectacular scenic vistas from the 

ridgeline in Davis County. The area has moderate potential for discovery of heritage sites of 

historic water control, logging, and American Indian sites. Manageability is generally good in 

the northern section, but decreases as one moves toward the south. Private land surrounds much 

of the area. 

Need: The area is located adjacent to the Davis County communities of Fruit Heights, Kaysville 

and Layton. The nearest wilderness area is Mount Olympus, about 30 miles to the south. Much 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 43 

of the ecosystem types of the area are represented in other wilderness areas. The area received 

limited public comment on its wilderness potential. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Francis 

Management Area: North Wasatch-Ogden

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 8,100 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 14,300 14,300 0 0 0 4,800 4,800

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6.1

Name: Farmington #0419009

Acres: Gross: 10,900 

Location and Access: It is situated on the western slope of the Wasatch Range northeast of 

Bountiful in Davis County. The area is bordered by improved roads on three sides: Ward Canyon 

Road on the south, Skyline Drive along the eastern edge at the mountain crest, and Farmington 

Canyon Road on the north. Along the western side is the urban Wasatch Front. 

Setting: The topography is steep and rugged with elevations ranging from 4,500 feet at the base 

to over 9,000 feet near the Skyline Road. Sagebrush, gambel oak, and maple vegetate the lower 

elevation slopes. Aspen and fir are found at higher elevations. The ridge near Skyline Drive is 

windswept and much of it consists of grass, rock and pockets of shrubs and trees including aspen 

and subalpine fir. 

Availability: Timber: There are an estimated 1,000 acres of tentatively suited timber within 

the area. Recreation: Use is primarily day hiking with increasing dispersed camping. There are 

non-motorized winter recreation activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and 

snowboarding. Snowmobiles access portions of the area especially near Skyline Drive and along 

Farmington and Ward Canyon Roads. The area receives heavy hunting use and has some limited 

fishing opportunities. Minerals: The majority of minerals, approximately 60%, are privately 

owned. Range: Some sheep grazing is permitted in the area. Water: The area is valuable 

municipal watershed for the surrounding communities. A portion of the Davis County 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 44 

Experimental Watershed is within the area. Land uses: Part of this area is currently under 

permit for guided helicopter skiing opportunities. A utility corridor from the 1985 Forest Plan 

crosses some of the area as does the Davis Aqueduct. Roads and Trails: There are no roads 

except for a few remnants. There are no routes designated as open for motorized use within the 

area; however, there are many unauthorized roads and ATV routes in the area, particularly near 

the urban interface and off the main roads surrounding the area. Recreation trails exist in Parrish 

Creek and Farmington Canyon. There are a few trails up other canyons such as Rick’s Creek and 

Steed Canyon. The proposed Bonneville Shoreline Trail could cross portions of the area along 

its western boundary. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment and appearance of the area is good, but 

generally wilderness characteristics are lacking. Extensive areas of terracing completed for 

watershed improvement are visible along the Skyline Drive just outside the area. Its evidence 

varies by location, season and lighting. A small area of terracing is within the roadless area itself. 

This element of human alteration of the landscape can affect one’s sense of remoteness. In some 

locations in the roadless area, a visitor’s sense of solitude is diminished from the sights and 

sounds of nearby development. Challenging experiences and primitive recreation are 

somewhat limited. Special Features or Attractions: The roadless area contains the 167 acre 

Morris Creek Research Natural Area (RNA), which was set aside as a benchmark area that was 

not impacted from past grazing. The area contains habitat for Peregrine falcon and goshawk. The 

area is important summer and winter range for deer, elk, moose and small game. Near the 

Skyline Drive, are ponds called Farmington Lakes, which have habitat for beaver, ducks, and 

dragonflies. There are no known heritage sites, but some prehistoric rock art has been found near 

the area. The area has moderate potential for discovery of historic logging, water control, 

recreation, and American Indian sites. Manageability of the boundary would be fair primarily 

because the development along the Front and the popularity of Skyline Drive. There is one 

intrusion of narrow private land on the south end. 

Need: The area is within 15 to 20 miles of Salt Lake City adjacent to the South Davis 

communities of Centerville and Farmington. The nearest wilderness area is about 20 miles to the 

south (Mount Olympus). Public interest in the area as wilderness has been low. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Farmington

Management Area: North Wasatch-Ogden

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 1,200 1,200 200 200 200 1,200 1,200

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 45 

Recommendation (miles) 

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6.1

Name: Hogsback #0419026

Acres: Gross: 7,900 

Location and Access: The area is on the eastern slope of the Wasatch Range in Morgan County 

5 miles east of Farmington and 7 miles southwest of Morgan. Primary access is by Skyline Drive 

and a segment of the Great Western Trail near Bountiful or Farmington. The Farmington Flats 

road that leaves Skyline Drive also reaches the area. 

Setting: Much of the area is steep and rugged. The area is known for its ridgeline shaped like a 

“hog’s back” in the distance. This ridge is primarily grass, rock and scattered patches of shrubs. 

Elevation for the area ranges from approximately 7,000 feet to 9,259-foot Bountiful Peak. 

Vegetation consists of grass, sage, and patches of shrubs, aspen and conifer. The ridge near 

Skyline Drive is windswept with rock outcroppings and remnants of a few whitebark pines. 

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: There are an estimated 2,300 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Recreation: The primary recreation use is hunting. There is some day 

hiking, dispersed camping, snowmobiling and OHV use. Minerals: Half of the minerals are 

privately owned. Range: Sheep grazing is permitted in much of the area. Water: The area 

provides water for communities in Morgan Valley. Land Uses: A 1985 plan utility corridor 

crosses the southern boundary. A portion of the area is within the permitted area for heliskiiing. 

Roads and Trails: There are three lightly used trails (Wasatch Crest, Arthur’s Fork and Deep 

Creek). 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is moderate. Areas that have been terraced 

for watershed improvement are visible along the Skyline Drive and Farmington Flats areas just 

outside the area. Solitude is moderate because of the low use in the area, but is sometimes 

affected by noise from nearby motorized recreation use in the Farmington Flats area. 

Challenging experiences are moderate. Special Features or Attractions: From the ridgeline, 

you can see vistas of the Great Salt Lake and Morgan Valley areas. The area has good habitat 

for deer. There are a few elk and moose that use the area as well as small game, grouse and 

raptors. There is a rare plant, the broadleaf beardtongue, present. There are no known heritage 

resource sites, but the area has moderate potential for historic and American Indian sites. 

Manageability is affected because of very narrow portions of the area such as on the Hogsback, 

which is surrounded by private land. The area between Farmington Flats and Bountiful Peak has 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 46 

been excluded resulting in a difficult to manage boundary. The roadless area almost surrounds 

Farmington Flats FS road 084. 

Need: The area is located near communities of Bountiful, Farmington and Morgan. The nearest 

wilderness is Mount Olympus about 15 miles to the south. It offers limited value as wilderness 

when compared to other nearby areas. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Hogsback

Management Area: North Wasatch-Ogden

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 6,900 6,900 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6.1 

Name: Mueller Park #0419038 

Acres: Gross: 7,700 

This is a new roadless area in the FEIS that did not appear in the DEIS. It was identified by the 

public during the review of the DEIS and confirmed by the Forest Service for the forest plan 

revision. 

Location and Access: It is situated on the western slopes of the Wasatch Range, east of the 

communities of North Salt Lake and Bountiful, along the Salt Lake and Davis County line. Much 

of the access is from the Mueller Park recreation area near Bountiful. Some access also occurs 

from North Canyon, the Great Western Trail and north of the State Capitol area. 

Setting: The topography in the area is steep and rugged. The Sessions Mountains area is very 

rugged and remote. Elevations range from 5,600 feet along the Wasatch Front to around 9,000 

feet below Grandview Peak. There are stands of deciduous trees along the lower stream canyons 

that provide brilliantly colored examples of exceptionally large maples and deciduous trees. 

There are also some secluded examples of old growth Douglas fir trees that have never been cut. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 47 

These Douglas fir and Gambel Oak communities are relatively undisturbed. The City Creek 

recreation managed by Salt Lake City lies to the south of the area and is popular for hiking, 

biking and picnicking. A Forest Service trailhead and picnic area exists at Mueller Park. 

Availability: Much of the area is currently being managed as roadless. Steep terrain has limited 

chances for additional development. Development of the private lands along the Wasatch Front 

are limiting access on the western side. Vegetation: There are no known populations of rare 

plants in the area. Timber stands are small and no timber harvest will occur in this area. 

Recreation: The area near Mueller Park recreation area receives high use. In 2001, the 

Grandview Peak Trail was part of the Adventure Challenge Race special use event. A portion of 

the Great Western trail crosses the area in the Sessions Mountains and the annual Wasatch 100 

race special use event uses this route. Use in the area includes day hiking, mountain biking, 

horseback riding, hunting, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Motorcycles are allowed on 

the Mueller Park and North Canyon trails. The Session Mountains portion has had substantial 

illegal ATV abuse. This has also occurred in the North Canyon area. A portion of the Heleski 

permit lies within the Session Mountains. Minerals: Approximately 46% of the area has private 

mineral rights. There are no existing oil and gas leases in the area. There is an inactive mine 

(Burro Mine) on the private land parcel included in the roadless area. Wildlife: The area is 

important winter range for deer, elk and moose. The area contains habitat for Peregrine Falcon 

and Goshawks. Range: There may be some old contoured terracing and seeding areas in the 

upper reaches from the 1930’s to mitigate past overgrazing. Area contains parts of the Mill 

Canyon and Shingle Mill sheep allotments in the upper reaches of the area that are currently 

open, but in non-use. Water: The area is watershed for Bountiful City. There are some minor 

water developments in the canyons in the area. Roads and Trails and Utility Lines: The Kern 

River gas pipeline represents part of the northern boundary. The area contains about one mile of 

the non-constructed Rudy’s Flat 4x4 road 80285. Other system roads have been excluded from

the roadless area by a cherry-stem boundary. System trails include Mueller Park (Mill Creek), 

North Canyon and Grandview Peak and Great Western. Insect and Disease: No major insect 

and disease problem has been identified. Fire: Fire danger is high along the Front, because of 

fuels located not far from development and high visitor use in the lower reaches. Land 

Ownership: There is a 79 acre parcel of private land included within the roadless area. Heritage 

Resources: The area has had only limited surveys completed in the past, and there are no known 

heritage sites recorded. There is a moderate probability that cultural resources are present, 

particularly those related to early settlement of the valley and Native American sites. 

Capability: The naturalness of the area and its integrity and appearance of the area are good. 

Remote areas in the upper portion of the area like Willey, Howard and Frederick Hollows offer 

secluded opportunities for solitude. Elephant Rock from the Mueller Park Trail provides

breathtaking views of the Wasatch Front. Overall wilderness characteristics are average, 

opportunities for primitive recreation moderate while challenging experiences range from 

average in the lower reaches to high in upper pockets of the area. The Wasatch Front urban 

development is visible and audible from much of the area. Manageability of a boundary for 

wilderness is fair. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 48 

 

Need: The Mueller Park roadless area is located adjacent to the communities of North Salt Lake 

and Bountiful whose residents utilize the area for day Forest recreation. The nearest existing 

wilderness area is about 10 miles to the south (Mount Olympus). Much of the roadless area is 

similar to other roadless areas in Davis County. Public interest in this area as a roadless or 

wilderness area has been low, as witnessed by its late identification in the roadless process. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mueller Park

Management Area: North Wasatch-Ogden Valley

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 5,300 3,800 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 5.9 5.9 5.9 5.9 5.9 5.9 5.9

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 49 

Central Wasatch Management Area 

Name: Red Butte #0419037 

Acres: Gross: 6,200 

This is a new roadless area in the FEIS that did not appear in the DEIS. It was identified by the 

public during the review of the DEIS and confirmed by the Forest Service for the forest plan 

revision.

Location and Access: It is situated on the Western slope of the Wasatch Range northeast of Salt 

Lake City in Salt Lake County. It is located NW of Emigration Canyon, SE of City Creek and 

west of the Pinecrest area. 

Setting: The topography is steep, rugged and brushy with elevations ranging from 5020 feet 

near Red Butte Reservoir to over 8,200 feet near the crest. The area has four distinct plant 

communities – riparian, grass-forb, oak-maple and coniferous. The area contains a lower 

elevation type that is not typical of nearby existing higher elevation wilderness areas. There are 

excellent examples of undisturbed gambel oak communities with maple and grass mixtures, one 

reason for its RNA status. There are a few scattered patches of aspen and fir pockets in the upper 

elevations. The University of Utah and Red Butte Gardens are located just west of the roadless 

area. The National Historic route for the Pony Express and Mormon Pioneers lies to the South in 

Emigration Canyon. 

Availability: Vegetation: Red Butte is known for its high amount of botanical diversity. The 

area has a high number of known rare plant species including Hopkins Tower Mustard, Wasatch 

Rockcress, Small Yellow Lady’s Slipper, Utah Fleabane, Broadleaf Penstemon and Beckwiths 

Violet. Timber harvest is not allowed and has not occurred since the 1800’s. Recreation: Access 

for recreation to the RNA portion is not allowed. There is some hiking and mountain biking on 

the Skyline Trail as well as non-system trails such as Mount Wire and Georges Hollow. In the 

past, Red Butte reservoir was once used as a fishing location open to disabled veterans. Limited 

hunting in the RNA has been allowed in the past if the Utah DWR determined that conditions 

warranted it. The RNA was open to the general public for recreation on some days in 1987 and 

1988, but it resulted in thousands of visitors and led to trampling of much vegetation along the 

main road. Minerals: There are no existing oil and gas leases in the area, and the area has no 

private minerals. The area is reported to have a unique combination of sedimentary strata that 

includes the Wasatch and Morrison formations accompanied by the Mississippian Humbug 

formation and possibly the Permian Arcturus formations. Red sandstone was quarried from the 

area starting in 1848 and up until 1940, especially in the Quarry Canyon area. Fossils have been 

found in the area such as in nearby Cephlapod Gulch. Wildlife: The area is very important for 

deer, elk and moose winter range. Bobcat and Mountain Lion have occasionally been observed. 

The area contains Colorado Cutthroat Trout. Red Butte Reservoir is used as a breeding location 

for the endangered fish, the June Sucker. Beaver were once native to the area and were 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 50 

reintroduced in 1928, however they were removed in 1982 by the army because of possible 

giardia contamination in the water supply. With the loss of beaver dams, floods destroyed much 

of the riparian and marsh habitat in 1983, resulting in declines in associated biotic species. The 

Forest Service had proposed in 1991 to reintroduce them, but this was not allowed, because of 

concerns that beavers could create problems if they migrated to Red Butte Gardens or 

Emigration Canyon areas. A total of 51 species of mammals should hypothetically occur in Red 

Butte, of which 39 are known to occur. There have been 106 species of birds identified including 

32 permanent residents, 44 summer residents and 30 migrants. Range: As a protected watershed 

for much of its history, for the most part the area has been kept free of grazing. Water: The area 

has not been used as culinary water since 1991. Prior to that it was used as a water source for 

Fort Douglas. RNA designation was given as the canyon was identified as one of the few 

remaining undisturbed watersheds in the Great Basin. Prior to that, the U.S. Army protected the 

area for its watershed and water quality. Roads and Trails: The upper part of Red Butte road 

80253b was originally constructed but, approximately 4.5 miles up from the RNA entrance the 

road has now been closed for many years (there are signs and berms). It has reverted back to trail 

like conditions. This section is not being re-constructed or maintained neither for motorized use 

nor as a system trail. Parleys Fork 4x4 road 80224, except for the lower 1⁄4 mile has also reverted 

back to trail like conditions. Mount Wire is a communication special use site, which could 

require motorized access for maintenance. There are several other old trails and road remnants 

that have reverted to trails within the area. Insect and Disease: No serious insect and disease 

problems. 

Capability: The RNA designation denotes an area that has been set aside, because it contains 

unusual or unique features of substantial value to society and will be managed as a living 

museum and biological library. Consequently, the naturalness of the area is very high. Since 

access to the area is controlled/limited, the area has high solitude values, despite being adjacent 

to a high-populated urban area. Much of the area is quite rugged and trail-less with very brushy 

oak stands making route navigation a challenging experience. The area has high values for 

ecological research. The University of Utah Biology Department has conducted studies in the 

past in the area. Research has included physiological adaptation, nutrient cycling impacts from 

airborne (air pollution, acid rain), vegetation distribution and beaver population effects. Current 

opportunities for primitive recreation are almost always are not allowed, because of the RNA 

status. Manageability of the boundary for possible wilderness designation would be excellent, 

because of the current RNA boundaries. 

Need: Red Butte is located adjacent to the Salt Lake metropolitan area. The nearest existing 

wilderness area is about 5 miles to the south (Mount Olympus). Public interest in the area as 

roadless or wilderness has been low as witnessed by its late identification in the roadless process, 

but this may be because of the fact that it was already protected as a RNA. Continued RNA 

protection has high public interest.
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 51 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Red Butte

Management Area: Central Wasatch

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 4,600 3,200 3,200 6,000 5,200 5,300 4,800

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles)2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles)2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6 + 3.1 and 3.1a. For this roadless area, 3.1 and 3.1a acres within the proposed RNA 

are also considered as protecting Wilderness Character.1

2. Red Butte is currently managed as a Research Natural Area. Public recreation is not allowed and any existing 

roads and trails are not open for motorized or non-motorized use. 

Name: Mount Aire #0419008 

Acres: Gross: 9,700 

Location and Access: The Mount Aire Roadless Area is located in the Wasatch Range east of 

Salt Lake City, bordered by Parleys and Lambs Canyon on the north and Mill Creek Canyon on 

the south. Access to the area is via the county road in Mill Creek Canyon, the Lambs Canyon 

Road, and Interstate 80 in Parleys Canyon. 

Setting: The area is composed of primarily brush-covered steep slopes ranging to about 8,600 

feet in elevation. Mount Aire and Grandeur Peak are the most prominent features. Vegetation at 

lower elevations includes maple, gambel oak and box elder with some aspen and fir are present 

at higher elevations. 

Availability: Vegetation Treatment: There are an estimated 500 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Recreation: The area is a very popular dispersed recreation area. 

Almost all the hiking is day use. There are some limited cross-country skiing and snowshoeing 

opportunities. The Pipeline Trail, paralleling a 1⁄4 mile above the canyon is one of most popular 

mountain bike trail opportunities near Salt Lake. Use is extremely heavy on the Pipeline, 

Rattlesnake Gulch, Mount Aire and Grandeur Peak Trails. Burch Hollow and Lambs Canyon 

Trails receive lower use. Part of the area’s popularity can be attributed to the fact it is one of the 

few areas in the Salt Lake portion of the Wasatch Front where dogs are allowed. Use is very low 

off the system trails due to brush and steep rocky slopes. The area does have some limited 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 52 

hunting. Minerals: Minerals are federally owned. There are no known significant mineral 

deposits. Range: There are no grazing allotments in the area. Water: Part of the area is in 

Salt Lake City municipal watershed, but currently it is not for culinary water purposes. North 

side drainages contribute to the Mountain Dell Reservoir, while south side drainages contribute 

to Mill Creek. Land Uses: The eastern side is currently under permit for guided helicopter 

skiing opportunities. There is a utility corridor from the 1985 Plan, which crosses the northwest 

corner of the area. Roads and Trails: The area contains no roads. All trails are nonmotorized. 

Capability: The naturalness of the area has been somewhat affected in heavy trail use areas 

but the natural integrity is intact otherwise. Air pollution, noise pollution and visual views of 

urban development affect this area. The narrowness and proximity to development can affect the 

solitude available to the visitor. Noise from traffic, Mill Creek visitors and Lambs Canyon 

summer home users is often heard. Solitude opportunities are very low along the trail corridors 

year round; however off trail visitor can experience outstanding opportunities for solitude. The 

area can present very challenging experiences off trail. An example is the northern ridgeline of 

Mill Creek Canyon, which is very brushy and rocky and requires route-finding skills. Special 

Features or Attractions: The area has a rare plant, the Wasatch Daisy. The area has habitat for 

peregrine falcon and golden eagle. The area is important summer and winter range for deer, elk, 

moose, and small game. There is moderate potential for discovery of historical mining and 

American Indian sites. Manageability is somewhat affected by the narrowness of the area 

(down to 1⁄2 mile in places), having a large portion of the area surrounded by private land and 

being adjacent to the heavily-used Mill Creek Canyon. 

 

Need: The area is adjacent to Salt Lake City. There are three other wilderness areas within close 

proximity of Mount Aire. Although somewhat similar to nearby wilderness areas, Mount Aire 

does offer some diversity in wildlife and lower elevation habitat. This area may have similar 

watershed protection needs in the future as the other nearby wilderness areas. Salt Lake City 

Public Utilities is currently not pushing for wilderness designation for this area; however the area 

has strong local support from the public and environmental groups on having the area designated 

as wilderness or at least roadless undeveloped management. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mount Aire

Management Area: Central Wasatch

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 9,400 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 9,400 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 53 

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Mount Olympus #0419007 

Acres: Gross: 10,000 

Location and Access: The area is located on western slope of Wasatch Range between Big 

Cottonwood and Mill Creek Canyons. The area is composed of three separate parcels. Most of 

the area is east of the existing Mt Olympus wilderness. The two remaining parcels are Neffs 

Canyon and areas along the Mill Creek and Big Cottonwood corridors. Access to the area is 

provided by State Highway 152 (Big Cottonwood) and county road in Mill Creek Canyon. 

Setting: Elevations range from about 6,000 feet to 10,246 feet on Gobblers Knob. Much of the 

area has steep rugged slopes with alpine scenery in the higher elevations. Douglas fir and 

subalpine fir grow in scattered patches on northern exposures and higher elevations. Other 

vegetation includes Gambel oak, maple, mountain mahogany, aspen and box elder. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 2,500 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Recreation: The area is a very popular year round recreation area. Uses 

include hiking, backpacking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and some limited hunting. There 

is no motorized recreation, except for helicopter skiing in the winter. Most trails receive 

extremely heavy recreation use. Lake Desolation and a climb to the top of Gobblers Knob are 

popular hikes. The area has some of the best high elevation mountain biking opportunities in the 

Salt Lake area. Trails such as Dog Lake, Big Water, Mill D North, Desolation, and Great 

Western receive a high amount of mountain biking use. Minerals: The majority of minerals are 

federally owned except for 450 acres. The area has evidence of past mining activity, but there is 

little evidence of current mining activity. It is a mineralized area and has the potential for mineral 

reserves. Range: There is no permitted domestic livestock grazing. Water: The area is part of 

the municipal watershed for Salt Lake City. Neffs Canyon has potential for water development. 

Land Uses: Mount Olympus Water has a long-term special use permit for access rights to their 

water system. Parts of the area such as Alexander Basin/Gobblers Knob are under permit for 

guided helicopter skiing opportunities. These areas were excluded in the 1984 Wilderness Act 

because of this use. Roads and Trails: The area contains several non-motorized trails including 

the Great Western Trail on the eastern edge. The trail to Alexander Basin is one of the steepest in 

the Wasatch Range gaining 2000 feet in 1.5 miles. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment has been influenced little by human intrusion. 

The naturalness and associated values are high in the Alexander Basin/Gobblers Knob area and 

moderate in other portions of the area. Solitude is mostly moderate throughout the area but 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 54 

diminishes in areas near the Mill Creek and Big Cottonwood Canyon corridors. More solitude is 

offered in the interior and eastern portions especially in off-trail areas and in Alexander Basin. 

Development along the Wasatch Front is highly visible from the western portion of the area. 

Opportunities for primitive recreation are excellent. Special Features or Attractions: Scenery 

and views are outstanding in much of the area. The country around Alexander’s Basin/Gobblers 

Knob is very steep and rugged, a geologic wonder of glaciation. Neffs Canyon has a deep 

limestone cave, managed for protection of cave resources. The area has habitat for Peregrine 

Falcon and golden eagle. There is summer and winter range for deer, elk, moose, bear and 

transplanted mountain goats. Forest Service sensitive plant Wasatch jamesia, and rare plants 

Wasatch shooting-star, and Wasatch and broadleaf beardtongue are present. The area has one 

known heritage site and has moderate potential for discovery of mining and American Indian 

sites. The manageability of the area as wilderness could be difficult along Mill Creek and Big 

Cottonwood because of heavy recreation developments and the Porter Fork summer homes area. 

The proximity of the Porter Fork development could create potential conflicting uses as 

evidenced by the occasional snowmobile trespass from this area into the existing wilderness. 

There is one private inholding near Beartrap Fork. 

Need: The area is adjacent to the Salt Lake metropolitan area. It is contiguous to the existing 

Mount Olympus Wilderness area. Across Big Cottonwood Highway is the Twin Peaks 

Wilderness area. The area has a lot of public interest in wilderness especially in the Alexander 

Basin/Gobblers Knob area. Many have emphasized watershed protection, ecosystem and wildlife 

values and primitive recreation needs in the vicinity of urban populations. Some would prefer 

heliskiing and mountain biking opportunities continue. Local environmental groups and Salt 

Lake City Public Utilities recommend much of this area as wilderness. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Mount Olympus

Management Area: Central Wasatch

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 9,300 2,200 2,000 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 9,300 2,200 2,000 0 0 2,000 2,000

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 0.2 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 55 

Name: Twin Peaks #0419006 

Acres: Gross: 6,500 

Location and Access: The Twin Peaks Roadless Area is located in the Wasatch Range between 

Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood Canyons, west of Brighton and east of Salt Lake City 

and is composed of eight units. Four are less than 100 acres and three are smaller than 300 acres. 

Most of the area is within one unit of 5,600 acres and includes Mineral Fork, Days Fork and 

Silver Fork Canyons. Included in the Twin Peaks Roadless Area are Reed and Benson Ridge, 

Greens Basin, Mats Basin, and the area west of Kessler Peak. Along the Wasatch Front, the 

smaller parcels include Deaf Smith Canyon, the mouth of Ferguson Canyon and an area above 

the Little Cottonwood Park and Ride Lot. Access to the area is via State Highways 152 and 210 

or from Wasatch Boulevard. 

Setting: Much of the topography is rugged and steep, with peaks towering up to 11,000 feet 

(east of Superior Peak). The vegetation varies from maple, box elder, and Gambel oak to heavy 

stands of subalpine fir, aspen and some Douglas fir. There is also steep rock slope, riparian 

habitat, as well as subalpine and alpine country in the upper reaches. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 800 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Recreation: Day hiking, cross-country and backcountry skiing, 

snowshoeing, and snowboarding are popular, especially in Mineral Fork, Days Fork and Silver 

Fork. The Mineral Fork trail is open to ATVs (vehicles less than 50 inches wide), motorcycles 

and mountain bikes. Motorized use is generally low except during hunting season. Use is low in 

Deaf Smith Canyon because access is difficult with housing developments adjacent to the forest 

boundary. Part of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail is proposed to cross near Ferguson and Deaf 

Smith Canyons. Minerals: The area has had mining activities in the past and some interest in 

prospecting continues. Some of the mining claims are still active and could warrant future 

access needs. The area does show evidence of mineralization. Most of the minerals are federally 

owned though in Deaf Smith Canyon and above Little Cottonwood Park and Ride there is 

substantial acreage of privately- owned mineral rights. There is one mining claim in lower Deaf 

Smith Canyon. There are no oil and gas leases and the potential is low. Range: There is no 

permitted domestic livestock grazing. Water: The area is part of the Salt Lake City municipal 

watershed. Land Uses: Parts of the area are under permit for guided helicopter skiing 

opportunities. These areas were excluded in the 1984 Wilderness Act because of this use. 

Solitude Ski area has expressed interest in expanding its downhill ski development into Silver 

Fork. Roads and Trails: It includes (or parts of) Mineral Fork, Days Fork, Silver Fork, Deaf 

Smith Canyon, and Ferguson Canyon Trails. 

Capability: The area has moderate values for naturalness and environmental values with 

interior areas providing higher values. Much of the area is similar to the existing wilderness area. 

Opportunities for solitude and serenity are affected by the nearness to the Salt Lake Valley 

metropolitan area and the heavy recreation corridors of Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. 

During the winter months solitude is also affected by helicopter noise at some times in some 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 56 

areas. The steep and off-trail country however provides diverse and challenging experiences

and primitive recreation. Deaf Smith Canyon with its limited access and rugged, remote terrain 

offers excellent solitude and challenge. Special Features or Attractions: The area has 

renowned examples of glaciations. Little Cottonwood Creek was found eligible to be included in 

the wild and scenic river inventory. The area contains habitat for peregrine falcon and golden 

eagles. Little North Deaf Smith Canyon does have the sensitive Bonneville cutthroat trout. The 

parcels of roadless along the Wasatch Front provide important winter big game habitat. Many 

plant species of concern are present. They include Garrett’s bladderpod, Wasatch Jamesia, 

Garrett’s daisy, Wasatch fitweed and broadleaf beardtongue. The area contains sites of historic 

mining activities. There is high potential for additional mining sites and some potential for 

American Indian sites. Manageability of the area as wilderness could be affected by the seven 

parcels of private land included, primarily in the narrow corridor area (only 1⁄2 mile wide in 

places) by Montreal Hill and west of Reed and Benson Ridge. The development potential of 

these lands is limited because of the area’s steepness and county land use restrictions. Two of 

these parcels are owned by Salt Lake City for watershed values. Private mineral ownership of 

these parcels, as well as other tracts in the Deaf Smith Canyon and above the Little Cottonwood 

Canyon Park and Ride could create conflicting uses should they ever be developed.

Need: The closest portions of the area are adjacent to Wasatch Front communities. It is 

contiguous to the existing Twin Peaks Wilderness Area. People who support this area for 

wilderness see a strong need for the primitive recreation opportunities provided in close vicinity 

to urban populations. They also see the need to manage these areas to protect them from 

impacts. The area has strong public support from the City of Salt Lake (for watershed 

protection), as well as local environmental organizations for wilderness designation. Former 

Congressman Cook studied the area for possible wilderness designation. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Twin Peaks

Management Area: Central Wasatch

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 5,700 2,300 500 0 0 0 0

Roadless/Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres)1 5,700 2,300 500 0 0 1,600 1,600

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 2.7 2.7 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0.1 0.1 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 57 

Name: White Pine #0419004 

Acres: Gross: 1,900 

Location and Access: The area is located in the Wasatch Range south of Little Cottonwood 

Canyon and west of Snowbird Ski Area. The northern boundary is the Little Cottonwood 

Highway, the eastern boundary is Snowbird Ski Area, the southern boundary is the Uinta 

National Forest and the western boundary is the Lone Peak Wilderness. Access to White Pine is 

from a trailhead on State Highway 210 (Little Cottonwood). There is one private inholding. 

Setting: Topography is rugged and steep with peaks towering over 10,000 feet. White Pine 

Lake (constructed reservoir) is a picturesque mountain lake located near the southern portion of 

the roadless area. Douglas fir and subalpine fir grow in scattered patches on the northern 

exposures and higher elevation. There is also gambel oak, maple, mountain mahogany, aspen 

and box elder. The upper portions of White Pine are alpine and subalpine terrain. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 300 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Recreation: The area receives heavy hiking and backpacking use 

primarily on the White Pine and Red Pine trails. Mountain biking use is moderate, with most 

riders only going as far as the Red Pine/White Pine trail junction. Extreme bikers can continue 

all the way to the lake. There is some fishing at White Pine Lake. The area is very popular in the 

winter for outstanding backcountry skiing opportunities. Minerals: Minerals in the area are 

federally owned. Range: There are no permitted livestock. Water: The area is part of Salt 

Lake City’s municipal watershed. Land Uses: The White Pine dam and road are under a special 

use permit that allows occasional motorized access for maintenance. Snowbird Ski Resort has 

expressed an interest for potential expansion in the White Pine area. The area is currently under 

permit for guided helicopter skiing opportunities. Road and Trails: A developed trail, which 

was a former road, leads to White Pine Lake. Fire: Area has low fire potential. There could be 

a need for fire control access, given its proximity to resort structures. Insect and Disease: 

Insect populations are low. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is moderate to high and influenced very little 

by human development except for the trail (former road) and the lake (reservoir with dam). 

Geological, biological, ecological, educational and historic values are moderate. Opportunities 

for solitude and challenge experiences are excellent away from the White Pine trail. There are 

some very rugged rock climbs and backcountry ski runs. Special features and attractions: The 

area is very scenic. The area provides habitat for deer, elk, moose, bear, mountain lion, and 

golden eagles. A Forest Service sensitive plant, Garrett’s bladderpod is present. Other rare 

plants such as Garrett’s daisy, Wasatch fitweed, and broadleaf beardtongue also inhabit the area. 

There are no known heritage sites but the area has moderate potential for discovery of American 

Indian and mining sites. The manageability of the area as wilderness is fairly good because it is 

mostly surrounded by easily identified ridgelines. The western boundary is adjacent to Lone 

Peak Wilderness. The ability to manage the area as wilderness along the eastern boundary would 

be more difficult given its proximity to Snowbird Ski Area. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 58 

Need: It is adjacent to Lone Peak Wilderness. Both the Mount Olympus and Twin Peaks 

Wilderness are nearby. The area is within a 5 to 10 mile drive from Salt Lake City. It is one of 

the most accessible high alpine areas in the Wasatch. There is strong public and Salt Lake City 

support for wilderness designation of the area. Others have said this area is needed for mountain 

bike use, heliski opportunities (key important area) and the potential ATV use. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Characteristics 

Roadless Area: White Pine

Management Area: Central Wasatch

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 1,900 1,900 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected (acres)1 1,900 1,900 0 0 0 1,900 1,900

Trails Closed to Motorized Use From 

Wilderness Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6 

Name: Lone Peak Additions #0419027 

Acres: Gross: 900 

Location and Access: There are 3 parcels along the Wasatch Front-- Little Willow Canyon, 

Rocky Mouth Canyon and an area near Corner Canyon with a fourth parcel just south of Little 

Cottonwood Canyon near Coalpit Gulch. State Highway 210 can access that portion. 

Setting: The area is lower elevation (5,500 to 8,000 feet) and primarily consists of rock, 

grassland, and scattered oak/maple patches with a few conifer. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are less than 100 acres of tentatively suited timber 

within the area. Recreation: The areas receive frequent use from local neighborhoods. Sandy 

City has established trailheads at Rocky Mouth and Little Willow Canyons. Use is primarily day 

hiking on user-created trails. Little Cottonwood Canyon is popular for dispersed use along the 

Creek. A mountain bike route leads up the canyon from the Temple Quarry Nature Trail. The 

Uinta National Forest has a trailhead just outside the boundary of the south end of the Corner 

Canyon parcel. It eventually leads to Lone Peak Wilderness. Minerals: Minerals on about 320 

acres are privately owned. Most of the private minerals are in the Coalpit Gulch area. Mineral 

potential is suspected to be low. Range: There is no grazing by domestic livestock. Water: The 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 59 

area has some water rights. Land uses: There are developments present used by irrigation 

companies. Roads and Trails: The Bonneville Shoreline Trail could potentially cross three of 

the parcels. 

 

Capability: The parcels on the front have naturalness of the environment diminished because 

of adjacent urban development. However, the parcel on the south side of Little Cottonwood is 

moderate in naturalness. The natural appearance in Corner Canyon has been diminished because 

of the resource damage caused by user-created ATV routes. Solitude and remoteness are quite 

limited being next to the Wasatch Front. Primitive recreation opportunities and challenging 

experiences are limited. Special Features or Attractions: Little Cottonwood Creek was found 

eligible in the Wild and Scenic River Inventory. The area includes some important deer winter 

range. A Forest Service sensitive plant Wasatch jamesia is present. The area has no known 

heritage sites but moderate potential for discovery of relic mining and American Indian sites. 

The manageability of the area as wilderness is hampered because it is adjacent to private land 

that may be developed in the future. Privately-owned minerals could create conflicting uses 

should they ever be developed. 

Need: The area is contiguous to the existing Lone Peak Wilderness area. Public interest in these 

parcels as future wilderness has been low.Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to 

Wilderness Character. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Characteristics 

Roadless Area: Lone Peak

Management Area: Central Wasatch

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 900 500 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 900 500 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use From 

Wilderness Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 60 

Stansbury Management Area 

Name: Stansbury Mountains #0419011 

Acres: Gross: 39,700 

Location and Access: The Stansbury Inventoried Roadless Area is located in an isolated 

mountain range in the Great Basin. It is located southwest of Grantsville, Utah. The roadless 

area surrounds the Deseret Peak Wilderness area. Primary access to the area is Forest Service rod 

578 in South Willow Road from Grantsville. There is also access by other low development 

roads from the Skull valley Road, Highway 199 from Terra and Granstsville to St. John. 

Setting: The terrain of the northern part of the range is steep and rugged while the southern part 

is rolling brush-covered area with some rocky peaks and slopes. Elevations range from 6,000 feet 

in the foothills to 10,301 feet at Vickory Mountain. The area contains some unique springs, 

limestone caverns and isolated forested stands. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 1,200 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Fuelwood gathering has been allowed in the past, but is not currently 

being managed for that activity. Recreation: Use includes hiking, backpacking, horseback 

riding, motorized recreation, mountain biking, rock climbing, dispersed camping and hunting. 

The area receives some local snowmobiling use. Minerals: Minerals are federally owned. 

There are a few small claims that have been active in the past. The area is rated as low for oil 

and gas potential. Range: Cattle graze under permit throughout most of the area. Water: 

Water is used for agriculture and local community needs. Land Uses: There are minor water 

developments in some side canyons. Roads and Trails: There are numerous low maintenance 

and user-created roads. There are several motorized and non-motorized low maintenance trails. 

The Stansbury Front Motorized Trail, which traverses the east side of the range is very popular. 

West Canyon also receives OHV use, but it is much more limited. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is intact with few human intrusions 

noticeable. Evidence of user-created trails and roads and historic small watershed treatment 

terracing areas detract from the area’s natural integrity in isolated areas. There are moderate 

values for naturalness, geological, biological, ecological and wildlife habitat. Solitude is 

outstanding because of the isolation, size and topography of the area. The area is wild and remote 

offering challenging experiences to visitors. Special Features or Attractions: The area is 

unique from much of the Wasatch-Cache, because it is part of the Great Basin ecosystem. The 

range itself is very scenic with views of the existing wilderness, surrounding desert and the Great 

Salt Lake. Area has one rare plant, the broadleaf beardtongue. There is habitat for deer, elk, 

mountain lion, raptors including peregrine falcon and goshawk, and a variety of small animals. 

There is potential for reintroduction of bighorn sheep. The area around Big Creek on the western 

side is part of the Big Creek Wild Horse Territory. Brown trout are found in North Willow Creek 

and rainbow trout are found in South Willow Creek. The area has about 20 known heritage sites 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 61 

including a prehistoric chipping area. Much of the area has high potential for discovery of relic 

mining and American Indian sites. Manageability: The Stansbury Front Trail dissects a major 

portion of the northern end of the roadless area. The proximity of motorized trails and accessible 

roads near future wilderness boundaries would create potential trespass problems as evidenced 

by current problems in Deseret Peak Wilderness. The Mining Fork Road and private land access 

would be difficult to manage because of the area between it and South Willow Canyon is very 

narrow.

Need: It is located 20 miles from the rapidly growing Tooele area and about 50 miles west of 

Salt Lake. It surrounds the existing wilderness area and is contiguous to BLM Wilderness study 

areas in the north and south. There have been several public comments to include the roadless 

area, existing wilderness and BLM WSA and other contiguous lands as a large wilderness 

ecosystem area. The area is known as a desert island roadless area, part of the Great Basin and 

Range ecosystem. There is some opposition to wilderness additions from local communities. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Stansbury Mountains

Management Area: Stansbury

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 37,300 17,100 5,000 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 37,300 33,900 17,100 0 0 17,100 17,100

Trails Closed to Motorized Use From 

Wilderness Recommendation (miles) 24.9 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open 

(miles) 0.2 26.2 26.2 26.8 26.8 26.8 26.8

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open 

(miles) 0 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 62 

Western Uintas Management Area 

(The High Uintas Roadless Area is described in the Eastern Uintas Management Area) 

Name: Nobletts #0419003 

Acres: Gross: 3,100 

Location and Access: Most of Nobletts roadless area is on the Heber District of the Uinta 

National Forest. This following will describe the Wasatch – Cache portion. It is located south of 

the Mirror Lake Highway between Pine Valley and Soapstone about 10 miles east of Kamas. The 

northern boundary is the Mirror Lake Highway, the western boundary is private land in Pine 

Valley and the southern boundary is the Uinta National Forest. Access from the Wasatch – 

Cache side is limited due to the Provo River, steep slopes and private land. Most access to the 

area comes from the Uinta National Forest side. 

Setting: Much of the area is a heavily timbered mountain up to 9,400 feet forested with aspen, 

lodgepole pine, Englemann spruce, subalpine fir and Douglas fir. There are rocky cliffs above 

the Provo River on the north side of the area. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 1,700 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Recreation: Because of the area’s limited access, use is low. There is 

some hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and hunting. Dispersed recreation and 

fishing are popular on the north side of the Provo River. The portion north of the Provo River 

along the Mirror Lake Highway receives heavy dispersed recreation use. Terrain limits most 

snowmobiling opportunities. The area contains part of a groomed ski and snowmobile route near 

the Provo River. Minerals: Minerals are primarily federally owned except for about 100 acres. 

Mineral potential is low. Range: Cattle graze in a portion of in the area. Water: Water use is 

for livestock use. Roads and Trails: There are a couple of system trails by the Provo River. 

There are no roads designated as open in the area. A few user-created roads are present. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is high in its quality and integrity, because of 

its limited access and topography and little influence from human activities. The area provides 

moderate geological, biological, ecological and educational values. While the area does receive 

low use, solitude is somewhat diminished by the influence from Mirror Lake Highway and the 

Soapstone Summer Home area. Primitive recreation opportunities and challenging 

experiences are limited. Special Features or Attractions: The area provides habitat for bear, 

mountain lion and moose. It is an important area for elk calving. Views of the scenic rocky cliffs 

above the Provo River are especially pleasing. There are no known heritage sites and moderate 

potential for historic logging and American Indian sites. Manageability of the area is limited 

because its small size. Management of the area as wilderness is affected by adjacent private land 

on the west end. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 63 

Need: The High Uintas Wilderness is about 8 miles away to the east. The area is about 15 miles 

from Kamas and 65 miles from Salt Lake City. Some people felt designating wilderness here 

would protect a larger intact ecosystem important for wildlife needs. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Nobletts

Management Area: Stansbury 

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness (acres) 2,700 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected (acres)1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use From 

Wilderness Recommendation (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads Open 

(miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 

Name: Lakes #0419005 

Acres: Gross: 122,000 

Location and Access: The Lakes Roadless area is immediately east of Kamas and north of 

Mirror Lake Highway. The area includes the headwaters of the Bear, Weber, Provo and 

Duchesne Rivers. Most of the area is within Summit County. Access to the area is State Highway 

150 (Mirror Lake Highway), county road 213 (Weber River) and Forest Service road 160 

(Whitney Reservoir)

Setting: Elevations range from about 7,500 feet on the west and south ends to 11,943 feet atop 

Bald Mountain near the east end. Mount Watson at 11,521 feet is another well-known peak. 

Deep canyons, forests and meadows characterize the west end; the east end is alpine country 

with high peaks and numerous natural and nine reservoirs. The extreme western and southern 

sections are vegetated with mountain mahogany, juniper, and sagebrush. The central portion is 

forested with aspen, lodgepole pine and mixed conifer stands. The high country is characterized 

by isolated stands of mixed conifer, patches of krumholz on windswept ridges and meadows 

composed of grasses and sedges. 

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 45,000 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. Evidence of previous timber sales is nearby. There is potential for 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 64 

prescribed burning in some of the area for habitat diversity improvements. Recreation: The area 

is extremely popular and receives high visitation. The more popular uses include day hiking, 

backpacking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, wildlife watching, snowshoeing, cross-country 

skiing, dispersed camping, and snowmobiling. The many lakes and higher elevation areas are 

major attractions during the summer months and several receive very high use. There is some 

mountain bike use. Motorized trails receive heavy use during the deer-hunting season and use is 

increasing. Snowmobiling is very popular with most of the higher use in the outer portion of the 

area (approximately 42% of the area). The remaining area provides opportunities for the highly 

skilled and adventuresome snowmobiler. About 95% of the roadless area is currently open to 

snowmobiling in the District travel plan. There is some rock climbing with fixed anchors in the 

Stone Garden area by Ruth Lake, near mile marker 18, on Bald Mountain and on the ridge north 

of Boy Scout Camp Steiner. Minerals: The majority of minerals are federally owned with an 

estimated 600 to 700 acres privately owned. The area has limited hard rock mining potential. 

There has been some prospecting in the past in Dry Fork near Fish Lake, in the South Fork of the 

Weber, Paulsin Basin and near Hoyt Peak. Two claims in the Paulsin Basin area are active and 

have proposed exploration and small-scale development. The area has low potential for oil and 

gas. There is one lease (about 100 acres) in the area around Gold Hill on the Evanston District. 

Range: Cattle are permitted to graze in much of the area except Dry Fork, Main Weber, Ruth 

Lake area and south of Bald Mountain. Cattle are not authorized above the 9800 feet elevation 

level. Sheep graze in lower Smith & Morehouse and directly south of Whitney Reservoir. 

Water: As the headwaters for several important streams, the area is a valuable watershed 

providing irrigation and culinary water to farms and communities downstream. Land Uses: 

There is one outfitter permit for cross-country skiers that use yurts for overnight use. Guided 

youth programs are also permitted in the Yellow Pine, Coop, Shingle, Norway Flats and Boulder 

Creek drainages. There are two snow-monitoring sites operated by the Natural Resources 

Conservation Service in Paulsin Basin and Spring Canyon, which are sometimes maintained by 

helicopter support. There is a small electronic site near the West Portal and and a repeater station 

on Bald Mountain. There are nine reservoirs owned by private companies and operated under 

special use permits (Sand, Fish, Anchor, Ibantic, Castle, Kamas, Meadow, Abes and Notch. 

Maintenance to these reservoirs is generally limited though at times by helicopter support. Roads 

and Trails: The area has four short segments of roads that are designated open in the District 

travel plan. There are a few motorized trails primarily in the northwest corner of the area such as 

Swifts Canyon, White Pine, South Fork Weber River, Hoyt Peak and Slader Ridge. The area has 

substantial miles of non-motorized trails. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is outstanding particularly in the core of the 

area where man-made developments have influenced the wildness of the area very little. 

Resource damage from ATVs detracts from the natural appearance in several areas. The area is 

known for its large open country carved by glaciers, scenic vistas and high country lakes and 

wetlands. The Middle Fork of the Weber River has some of the wildest country in the Uinta 

Mountain Range. Areas like south of Abe’s Lake and Hells Kitchen are known as very remote 

areas. Historic uses such as logging, shingle mills, mining and water developments have 

penetrated into the area though little evidence remains except for the dams, reservoirs and a few 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 65 

scattered remains. Many former reservoirs have been stabilized to natural lake levels. Restoration 

in these areas complements the undeveloped character of the land. Past watershed treatment 

terracing areas in the Mud Lake Flat area (about 370 acres) are no longer substantially 

noticeable. Timber sales around the perimeter have affected the natural appearance somewhat in 

these areas. The opportunity for solitude ranges from moderate to high depending on location, 

distance from development, vegetation and topography. Because of its large size, there are good 

opportunities for solitude and remoteness. Noises from Mirror Lake Highway can be heard in 

portions of the roadless area with snowmobile noise being the most dominant. Solitude in the 

non-winter months is higher off trail, along the Weber River side, and on the Evanston District 

side by Whitney Reservoir. During summer season the solitude is diminished at some lakes 

because of crowding. Opportunities for challenging experiences are rated as moderate with 

much of the use from short day hikes. Diverse opportunities exist for primitive recreation. 

Special Features or Attractions: The Lakes area includes some of the most scenic country and 

trails in northern Utah and in the state. The area has several segments of streams found eligible in 

the wild and scenic river inventory – Main Fork Weber, Middle Fork Weber, Beaver Creek, and 

the Provo River. The area has abundant variety of species because of the diverse habitat present. 

The area is important summer and winter range for deer, elk and moose. There are also mountain 

lions, black bear, pine marten, weasel, beaver, bobcat, coyote, pika, badger and skunk. The Utah 

State Division of Wildlife Resources has introduced mountain goats in the area. The area is 

potential lynx habitat. Over 100 species of birds inhabit the area. Bonneville cutthroat trout are 

native to the area. Introduced fish include brook trout, rainbow trout and artic grayling. Sensitive 

species present include goshawk, boreal owl, and boreal toad. There is a Utah species of concern, 

the smooth green snake and the area has potential habitat for the spotted frog. The area has 

Forest Service sensitive plant, rockcress draba and a rare plant, Utah ivesia. The area contains 

some known heritage sites. Limited prehistoric cultural evidence has been found in some isolated 

spots. There are a few remains of old cabins associated with shingle mills and discarded 

machinery associated with attempted mining operations. There is high potential for further 

discovery of past logging, water development, and American Indian sites. The manageability of 

the area as wilderness is complex because the boundary meanders substantially. The area is large 

over 122,000 acres, which allows some flexibility to help designate a more manageable area. 

There are several roads excluded such as Paulsin Basin, Upper setting, Norway Flat, around 

Lambert Meadow, Gardners Fork, Slader Basin, Box Canyon, Mud Lake Flat, Swift Canyon etc. 

Proximity to private land and private inholdings contribute to the complexity. The north and 

west sides are primarily adjacent to private land. Present vehicular trespass in closed areas 

especially on the Weber River side suggests potential problems in the future. There are two 

private inholdings west of Holiday Park. In addition, there is one private inholding of 158 acres 

excluded out with a cherry stem in the northwest corner by Swifts Canyon. Private land 

peninsulas intrude into the roadless area by Hoyt Canyon and Holiday Park. 

Need: The area is 60 miles east of Salt Lake City. Both Kamas and Oakley are only about 3 

miles away from the western edge of the roadless area. The nearest wilderness area is the High 

Uintas, the largest wilderness area in Utah. It is separated from the Lakes area by the Mirror 

Lake Highway corridor, in some places only 1 mile away. Lakes area is very significant as a 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 66 

roadless area, because of its size, one of the largest in Utah. Many view it is a large valuable 

ecosystem when combined with the roadless area and wilderness of the High Uintas. Because of 

this size it offers important habitat for the survival of wildlife. The effects on lynx and other 

carnivores and their habitat from winter recreation are an issue. The area has probably received 

the highest amount of public interest of all the roadless areas on the Forest. This interest has 

been highly polarized with some people very much in support of wilderness designation and 

others very much opposed to the idea. The support for wilderness designation includes 

environmental organizations that have emphasized this area as a high priority for wilderness 

designation. Some groups have proposed the area as the Mount Watson Wilderness – this is 

approximately the inner 2/3 of the roadless area (approximately 71,000 acres). Opposition is also 

high against the Lakes area as wilderness, primarily from the snowmobile community, summer 

motorized users and some local residents. Many feel it is better managed, as it is now as 

backcountry allowing for winter motorized use. The Lakes backcountry is a very valuable niche 

for the increasing demand for non-wilderness backcountry. It offers high lakes that contain 

fishing opportunities, for visitors wanting a backcountry-fishing trip, but not necessarily a 

wilderness experience that impacts the wilderness. This type of management could allow for 

more cost effective mitigation of human impacts in the face of drastically declining budgets. The 

demand for this type of opportunity is rapidly increasing. This area is viewed by the 

snowmobiling community as one of the critical opportunity areas for their use. Snowmobile use 

is viewed as important economic sources for communities like Kamas and Oakley. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Lakes

Management Area: Western Uintas

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended 

Wilderness (acres) 119,200 71,900 0 0 0 26,300 38,000

Wilderness Character 

Protected (acres)1 119,200 76,400 60,400 0 0 64,800 65,500

Trails Closed to 

Motorized Use From 

Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 11.1 4.5 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan 

Trails Open (miles) 0 8.6 13.1 13.1 13.1 13.1 13.1

Motorized Travel Plan 

Roads Open (miles) 0 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9 1.9

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 67 

Eastern Uintas Management Area

Name: High Uintas #0419022 

Acres: Gross: 103,100 

Location and Access: The High Uintas Roadless Area is located on the Ashley and WasatchCache National Forests. This write-up describes only the Wasatch-Cache portion. The area is a 

strip of land lying along the western and northern boundary of the High Uintas Wilderness in 

north central Utah. Most of the access is off of or from roads and trails accessing State Highway 

150 (Mirror Lake Highway) or Forest Road 058 (North Slope Road. In addition, there is one 

small area of 100 acres between Burnt Fork Lakes and Reader Lakes in the roadless area. 

Availability: Current resource demands and uses of the roadless area vary significantly across 

the roadless area. Because the area is so large, characteristics of smaller areas will be discussed 

as appropriate. 

 

Vegetation Treatment: Timber harvest in the area began in the 1860’s, when the wood was 

used for railroad ties and charcoal. Evidence of past and present timber harvest is present in areas 

directly outside of the area. Several old timber sale areas are being used for fuelwood gathering 

permits. There are 43,300 acres of timber considered tentatively suited for harvest. Areas with 

higher timber values are found near Boundary Creek, East Fork Blacks Fork, West Fork Smiths, 

Middle Fork Beaver and Beaver Creek. There has been a proposal for timber harvest units in the 

Thompson/Kabell areas, where there are large stands of dead lodgepole pine. Recreation: The 

High Uintas Roadless Area is extremely popular for backpacking, horse packing, hiking, 

hunting, fishing and dispersed camping. Mountain biking is gaining in popularity. Much of the 

roadless area is used as primary access into the wilderness. ATV use is popular in several areas 

including Murdock Basin, Broadhead Meadows, and Wolverine areas. Big game hunting is 

heavy in portions of the area with less use on the Kamas District side. Recreation use is heaviest 

in areas accessed by roads and trails and around popular lakes. Lake basins are popular and 

receive high visitation. Snowmobiling use as well as non-motorized winter recreation (crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing) is increasing on the North Slope. 

The Stillwater/Hayden portion is made up of three areas – Hayden Fork, Main Fork and 

Stillwater drainages. Stillwater Fork is a popular backcountry recreation area because of easy 

access. Large Boy Scout groups frequent Scow Lake. The Main Fork is an isolated and lightly 

used drainage with the most concentrated use during the hunting season. There is some 

motorized trail use primarily in the northwest area. 

The East Fork Bear River portion of the roadless area is made up of three areas – Lily Lake, 

Boundary Creek and East Fork Bear River. The Wolverine ATV Trail system occupies much of 

the Lily Lake portion. Firewood is harvested in this area. In the winter months there is a 

developed cross-country ski area near Lily Lake with a system of yurts available for overnight 

use. Anglers use the East Fork Bear River trail to access the river for fishing. Large groups often 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 68 

camp and fish at Lorena Lake. Boundary Creek has become a very popular area for large groups 

seeking a backcountry camping experience. It is also popular for fall hunting and cross-country 

ski use is increasing. Snowmobile use is light except near the head of Boundary Creek. 

The Blacks Fork area is comprised of East Fork, West Fork, and Middle Fork of the Blacks 

Fork. West Fork Blacks Fork is heavily used particularly during the fall big game hunt. Summer 

motorized use is popular along the road paralleling the river, as is snowmobiling in the winter. 

Most of Middle Fork Blacks has restricted motorized use, but a very low standard and rough 

road provides access to four-wheel drive and ATV's into the northern end of the area. East Fork 

Blacks Fork has increasing recreation use supported by nearby facilities. Motorized recreation is 

prohibited except for snowmobile use in the portion of the area north of the trailhead. The area 

behind the trailhead is restricted to all motorized use and is managed for semi-primitive nonmotorized recreation opportunities. 

Cataract creek, Steel Creek Park and North of Bull Park are important snowmobile areas. 

East Fork Smiths and West Fork Smiths form the Smiths Fork area. East Fork Smiths is near a 

heavily used road and campgrounds that receives heavy recreation use in the summer and fall. 

Snowmobile use is popular in the winter and the area has a developed mountain bike trail. 

Recreational use in West Fork Smiths Fork is very light with some increase occurring during the 

fall hunt. Snowmobile use in Steel Creek Park and north of Bull Park is very popular. The areas 

provide excellent snowmobiling opportunities, which are limited on much of the Mountain View 

District. 

The Henrys Fork/Gilbert Creek area is similar to the West Fork Smiths Fork with numerous 

small roads that provide opportunities for development of bike, ATV and cross-country ski trails. 

The Beaver Creek area can be divided into three fairly distinct areas – Bullocks Park, West Fork 

Beaver Creek and Middle Fork Beaver Creek. Bullocks Park and West Fork Beaver receives 

light summer use but increasingly heavy fall hunting use. Motorized use is prohibited except for 

snowmobiling, which only use the area infrequently. 

The Burnt Fork/Thompson/Kabell area could be divided into three distinct areas – 

Thompson/Kabell Creek, Burnt Fork and Beaver Meadows. The Thompson/Kabell Creek area 

has two popular trails that provide access to the wilderness. Burnt Fork is becoming increasingly 

popular and receives quite heavy use during the fall hunt. Fishing is very poplar on the scenic 

stream that has numerous small falls and pools. 

Minerals: The majority of the minerals are federally owned. There are about 6,500 acres of 

privately owned minerals. The Uinta Mountains is considered high in its potential for oil and gas 

discovery, A substantial amount of the roadless area contains geology that has a high potential 

for formations known to contain hydrocarbons in other locations. There are 21,000 acres of 

existing oil and gas leases. Range: The area is summer range for numerous cattle and sheep 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 69 

allotments. Parts of 24 allotments are in the roadless area. There are many range improvements 

in some areas such as fences and water developments scattered throughout the area. Several 

low-level maintenance roads are used for motorized access for grazing permittees. Water: The 

Uintas are the headwaters for several of Utah’s river systems. Water from the Henrys Fork, 

Blacks Fork, Bear River, Duchesne River, and Provo River is used for downstream irrigation 

purposes. The area contributes to the water supply for developed recreation sites such as Meeks 

Cabin and Stateline Reservoirs. Land Uses: The Natural Resource Conservation Service has 

snow-monitoring sites in the Lily Lake area and south of Steel Creek Park. The Provo Water 

Users Association has two electronic sites maintained by helicopter and vehicular motorized 

access in the Duchesne Tunnel area. The Bureau of Reclamation has a weather station near the 

boundary up the West Fork Blacks Fork. The area does have two sites under special use permit 

for weather data collection that requires motorized access for maintenance. There is a 

constructed ditch with a headgate that diverts Thompson Creek water to Hoops Lake. The ditch 

was constructed with motorized equipment and could require motorized access for maintenance 

in the future. Roads and Trails: There are some motorized trails out of the Wolverine and East 

Fork of Bear River, as well as the Broadhead Meadows and Murdock Basin areas that are 

important areas for motorized recreation. A couple of short segments of low maintenance roads 

designated as open in the Kamas District travel plan are included in the roadless area. The West 

Fork Blacks Road is closed to the general public and open only for administrative use and a 

special use weather station permit. There are some designated mountain bike trails near Stateline 

Reservoir. The Duchesne Tunnel crosses the roadless area underground. Motorized access for 

maintenance work on the tunnel is gained from outside the area. There is no surface disturbance. 

Capability: The area is known for its size, high natural values, pristine and wild landscapes, 

remarkable scenery, and diverse landscapes. Human activities influence the natural environment 

near the perimeter, which are adjacent to timber sales, roads, and developed campground and 

trailheads. This is particularly true close to the North Slope Road. Opportunity for solitude is 

high for much of the area due to the area’s large size and dense vegetative screening. Primitive 

recreation opportunities are also excellent because of the vast size and wildness of the area. 

Diversity of the landscape enhances the area scenic quality. Because of the uniqueness and size 

of the range, there are high educational and research values. The Middle Fork of Bear, Boundary 

Creek, Middle Fork Blacks and west Fork Beaver are known as the most pristine and remote 

areas. 

The Stillwater/Hayden portion (Hayden Fork, Main Fork and Stillwater drainages) has the most 

diversity within the roadless area. Hayden Fork has outstanding primitive recreation 

opportunities. Much of the area has few impacts but its proximity to Highway 150 and developed 

campgrounds results in sights and sounds of mechanization filtering into the area. Stillwater 

Fork is similar to Hayden Fork. Scenic quality and primitive recreation opportunities are high 

away from the campground and summer home area. The Stillwater Fork trail is visited 

extensively affecting opportunities for solitude. Large groups in the Scow Lake area can 

diminish one’s sense of remoteness. The Main Fork has outstanding scenery and is the most 

remote of the three drainages. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 70 

The naturalness of the environment of East Fork Bear River portion of the roadless area (Lily 

Lake, Boundary Creek and East Fork Bear River) varies significantly from one location to 

another. The natural environment of the Lily Lake area has been diminished somewhat by the 

presence of numerous four-wheel drive and ATV trails. Boundary Creek is known for its 

outstanding primitive recreation opportunities and isolation from nearby developments. The East 

Fork Bear has many wilderness characteristics present, although use from large groups 

diminishes solitude in some locations. A variety of habitats attract a multitude of wildlife. 

Remnants of old tie hack cabins are present. 

The Blacks Fork area is comprised of East Fork, West Fork, and Middle Fork of the Blacks 

Fork. The West Fork has outstanding primitive recreation opportunities. The road in the West 

Fork Blacks Fork is closed to all but administrative use, so solitude and remoteness are rarely 

affected; most of the area is isolated from concentrated use and development. Past timber 

harvesting is all but nonexistent with a few old decrepit cabins, decaying stumps and old grown 

over narrow roads. There is good habitat for wildlife present. Middle Fork Blacks has 

outstanding primitive recreation opportunities available. There are high opportunities for finding 

solitude and remoteness in this area. Wilderness characteristics within East Fork Blacks Fork 

vary greatly. Near the East Fork Blacks Fork Road and in the more northern portion of the 

drainage solitude and remoteness are diminished. However, south of the East Fork Blacks Fork 

Guard Station, a deep sense of solitude and remoteness is present. 

East Fork Smiths and West Fork Smiths form the Smiths Fork area. The West Fork Smiths 

Fork is a relatively narrow band of the roadless area. Scenery is not unique since most of the area 

contains extensive stands of lodgepole pine. Opportunities for primitive recreation activities are 

limited, however one can experience a sense of solitude and remoteness. East Fork Smiths Fork 

is fairly similar to West Fork Smiths Fork for providing solitude and primitive recreation 

opportunities. The area is more scenic. Numerous isolated ponds and small wet meadows afford 

excellent wildlife habitat viewing opportunities. 

The Henrys Fork/Gilbert Creek area is also similar to the West Fork Smiths Fork. Its 

proximity to a very popular trailhead results in sights and sounds penetrating into the 

surrounding roadless area. 

Beaver Creek can be divided into three fairly distinct areas – Bullocks Park, West Fork Beaver 

Creek and Middle Fork Beaver Creek. Bullocks Park is a relatively narrow piece of land lying 

between a recent timber sale and the wilderness, covered quite extensively by lodgepole pine 

with limited primitive recreation opportunities. West Fork Beaver is a large area that provides 

opportunities for primitive recreation. The terrain is diverse and the abundance of various 

habitats affords a good opportunity to see different wildlife. The Middle Fork Beaver Creek is 

very similar to the West Fork Beaver Creek. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 71 

The Burnt Fork/Thompson/Kabell area (Thompson/Kabell Creek, Burnt Fork and Beaver 

Meadows) are somewhat similar to Beaver Creek. Burnt Fork has somewhat higher scenic 

quality and could easily be managed as wilderness. Beaver Meadows is also similar to Beaver 

Creek but more limited in primitive recreation opportunities, much of rest of the year, visitor use 

is light since scenery is not unique to the North Slope. 

The portion of the roadless area on the Kamas District has moderate values of naturalness, 

solitude, remoteness, and primitive recreation. There are a lot of high elevation wetlands next to 

alpine country. The naturalness of the environment is somewhat lower near the Mirror Lake 

Highway and in Murdock Basin ATV network. The sights and sounds of the Mirror Lake 

corridor and the presence of roads affect solitude, and remoteness. Special Features or 

Attractions: The Uinta Mountains are known for their outstanding scenic qualities. The Uinta 

Mountain range is unique in that they are the highest range in Utah and the most prominent eastwest range in the lower 48 states. There are many segments of streams that were found eligible in 

the wild and scenic river inventory: Henrys Fork, West Fork Beaver, Thompson Creek, West 

Fork Blacks, East Fork Blacks, Little East Fork, West Fork Smiths, East Fork Smiths, Stillwater, 

Hayden Fork, Ostler Fork, Left Hand Fork Bear, Right hand Fork Bear, East Fork Bear and 

Boundary Creek. The area has an abundant number of species of fish, amphibians, birds and 

mammals inhabit the Uintas, one of Utah’s most biological diverse areas. Area offers important 

habitat for species at risk like lynx, wolverine, river otter and pine marten, as well as potential 

habitat for large carnivores such as wolves and grizzly bear, which once existed in the area. The 

area also has black bear, cougar, deer, elk, moose, fox, badger, weasel, skunk, grouse, and 

ptarmigan. Several drainages such as Beaver Creek, Burnt have extensive stands of lodgepole 

pine with numerous pockets of wet meadows and ponds scattered throughout providing for a 

variety of wildlife habitat where big game species flourish. East Fork Blacks is an important 

migration corridor for elk. Elk use the higher elevations of the roadless area extensively in the 

summer. There is a herd of Bighorn Sheep in the Hole-in-the-Rock area. Mountain goats have 

been have been transplanted to the area. Species at risk include great gray owl, boreal owl, 

osprey, three-toed woodpecker, goshawk, and boreal toad. Sandhill and whooping cranes and 

bald eagles migrate through the area. Streams have native Colorado and Bonneville cutthroat 

trout and rocky mountain whitefish as well as introduced rainbow trout, brook trout and grayling. 

Plant species at risk are rockcress draba, Uinta beardtongue and Siberian aster. There are several 

historical and cultural sites from use by American Indians, mountain men, and early pioneers. 

There are several remnants of the tie hack days. The area has high potential for additional 

historic tie hacking, logging, and American Indian sites primarily on the Evanston Ranger 

District. 

Manageability: The manageability of the area varies significantly across the landscape from 

one area to another. Hayden Fork has an easily identifiable boundary though its proximity to 

concentrated use along Lily Lake Road and Highway 150 would make managing for wilderness 

challenging. East Fork Bear’s terrain and layout of existing roads have isolated the area from the 

sights and sounds of development. The Bear River-Smiths Fork Trail provides an effective and 

easy to locate boundary. The terrain of West Fork Black affords manageability of the area for 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 72 

wilderness characteristics. The remote location and difficult access of Middle Fork Black 

contributes to its manageability for wilderness characteristics, though the checkerboard land 

ownership could hinder management as wilderness. East Fork Blacks manageability for 

wilderness characteristics could be achieved with existing roads and streams used as identifiable 

boundaries. With relatively limited access, the East Fork Smiths area could be managed for 

wilderness characteristics. Much of the North Slope road could be used as a boundary. 

Alternately, manageability for wilderness in the West Fork Smiths, Henrys Fork and Bullocks 

areas would be hampered by the lack of physical features that could readily identify the 

boundaries of the area. The narrow corridor of roadless east of Stateline Reservoir and Bridger 

Lake would be difficult to manage as wilderness. The West/Middle Beaver area lacks 

outstanding physical features that may be used as a boundary. Areas along significant road 

exclusions and development (Murdock Basin, Main Fork, Stillwater Fork, East Fork Blacks 

Fork, East Fork Smiths Fork, Middle Fork Beaver and the oil and gas development area near 

Dahlgren) could increase potential for non-conforming motorized use. 

Need: It is contiguous to the existing High Uintas Wilderness area, the largest wilderness in 

Utah (over 460,00 acres). The area is located 110 to 150 miles from Salt Lake City and about 30 

miles southeast of Evanston, Wyoming. Other local communities include Kamas, Mountain 

View, Robertson and Lonetree. 

The area has received much public interest. This interest has been highly polarized with some 

people very much in support of wilderness designation and others very much opposed to the 

idea. The area has received public interest in wilderness designation from both local and national 

groups. Some view the range as biologically important and an ecological sanctuary, part of an 

ecosystem complex that connects with the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. By including the 

existing wilderness and nearby roadless acreage as well as areas on the Ashley National Forest 

they view the value as a critical corridor as enhanced. They felt wilderness designation would 

also provide connectivity from sagebrush ecosystems to high alpine country. Others suggest that 

by increasing the size of the existing wilderness, pressure on other parts of the wilderness will be 

reduced. 

Others have expressed opposition to wilderness designation for several different reasons. There 

is a growing segment of the public who want an outstanding backcountry experience without the 

restrictions that accompany a wilderness designation. They desire a place where large groups of 

more than 14 people can go and have a backcountry experience. Lakes like Baker, Lorena in the 

Boundary Creek/East Fork Bear area are popular for such large groups. 

Snowmobiling groups have expressed a desire to have areas currently open remain open because 

of the great increase in use of snowmobiling. Many snowmobilers seek wide-open spaces with 

open steep slopes to challenge and the High Uintas roadless area provides this experience. They 

feel much of the available terrain is already closed because it is within the wilderness. Like nonmotorized users, snowmobilers use and enjoy outstanding, rugged scenery. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 73 

Kamas portion of the roadless area has received less public interest when compared to the public 

interest along the North Slope. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character

Roadless Area: High Uintas

Management Area: West and East Uintas

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 98,200 29,300 18,200 0 0 20,100 20,600

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1 98,200 41,600 30,000 0 2,000 29,700 31,400

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 

Recommendation (miles) 15.2 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 1.1 16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4 16.4

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescriptions 1.5 + 2.4 + 2.6.

Name: Widdop Mountain #0419020 

Acres: Gross: 8,000 

Location and Access: The area lies near the Utah – Wyoming state line south of Lone Tree, 

Wyoming. The area includes Widdop Mountain, the lower Burnt Fork drainage and the area 

around Coal Mine Hill. Access is primarily by the North Slope Road FS086 and from the north 

by the Gregory Basin Road (Summit County Road 589). 

Setting: The terrain consists of short, steep east-west ridges. The north and west portions of the 

area are steep ridges with birch-leaf mahogany on southern exposures and dense stands of 

Douglas fir on the northern exposures. The ridges in the eastern and southern portion extending 

into the Burnt Fork drainage are vegetated with lodgepole pine. The area also offers rolling 

grasslands. Elevations range from 8,000 feet in the Burnt Fork drainage to the peak of Widdop 

Mountain at 9,451 feet.

Availability: Vegetation treatment: There are an estimated 3,400 acres of tentatively suited 

timber within the area. A past thinning project in the western portion just north of Hole in the 

Rock is evident. Recreation: Recreation use is light with most use occurring during the fall 

hunting season. Some fishing takes place in the Burnt Fork River. The area is also popular for 4-

wheel drive and ATV use. It is used for dispersed camping opportunities. The area is closed to 

snowmobiles. Minerals: The area is located in the Green River Moxa-Arch oil and gas play. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 74 

The oil and gas industry rates the area high for oil and gas potential. There are no oil and gas 

leases currently issued. The area also has known deposits of coal. There were a few past efforts 

to attempt to mine coal in the area. All of the minerals are federally owned. Range: The range 

allotments have been vacant since bighorn sheep were introduced. The area has two substantial 

wire wildlife exclosures for vegetation study purposes. Water: The area provides irrigation 

water for Burnt Fork and Mckinnon, Wyoming. Roads and Trails: The area includes numerous 

user-created and low maintenance roads. 

Capability: The naturalness of the environment is rated moderate influenced by the evidence 

of user created roads, timber harvest, vegetative treatments and grazing improvements. 

Opportunities for solitude are good especially away from existing roads, since the area has 

limited access and use is generally low. There are moderate opportunities for primitive 

recreation. Challenging experiences and diversity of opportunities are somewhat limited. 

Special Features or Attractions: The area has some stands of old Douglas fir and sagebrush 

areas in limestone outcroppings, which are somewhat unique for the North Slope. Thompson 

Creek was found eligible in the Wild and Scenic River Inventory. Values for wildlife habitat are 

high. It is an important big game summer and winter range – elk, deer, moose, and bighorn 

sheep. The area is potential lynx habitat. Burnt Fork has Colorado cutthroat trout, a Forest 

Service Sensitive Species. The area contains few known heritage sites, but has moderate 

potential for discovery of historic mining, logging, and American Indian sites. Manageability: 

The area is surrounded by state and private land in the north and northeast creating potential 

conflicts with nearby non-wilderness uses. 

Need: Area is about 60 miles from Evanston and 150 miles from Salt Lake City. The 

community of Mountain View is about 30 miles away. The High Uintas Wilderness Area, the 

largest wilderness area in the State of Utah is about 3 miles away (separated by the North Slope 

Road and the large existing reservoirs). Public opinion on the area is divided. It has not received 

many comments compared to more popular nearby roadless areas like Lakes and High Uintas. 

Some have emphasized wilderness to protect ecosystem values for the entire Uinta Mountain 

range. Others feel this area is needed to meet the growing demand for dispersed motorized 

recreation opportunities. The area is also important for local community values of traditional 

Forest uses and recreation. 

Alternatives and Potential Environmental Effects to Wilderness Character 

Roadless Area: Widdop Mountain

Management Area: Eastern Uintas

Alternative: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

Recommended Wilderness 

(acres) 8,000 0 0 0 0 0 0

Wilderness Character Protected 

(acres)1

 8,000 0 0 0 0 0 0

Trails Closed to Motorized Use 

From Wilderness 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest C1- 75 

Recommendation (miles) 

Motorized Travel Plan Trails 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Motorized Travel Plan Roads 

Open (miles) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1. Prescription 1.5 +2.4 + 2.6.