Forest officials are urging visitors who will be enjoying the outdoors on the Uinta National Forest over the July 4 weekend to be aware of some recreation tips that will make their visit more enjoyable.
- Leave the fireworks at home. Possessing or discharging any kind of firework within National Forest System lands is prohibited. Vegetation along the foothills has begun to dry out.- High water flows. Local canyons still have high and swift water flows. Visitors should avoid standing too close to riverbanks and watch children around all water sources.
- Be informed of recreation opportunities. Some trailheads, picnic sites and parking areas require day-use fees this year.
- Trails and roads. Most lower-elevation trails are open. High-elevation trails above 8,000 feet are snow-packed and inaccessible. Some high-elevation roads are inaccessible due to snow and muddy conditions. Visitors should watch for slick, muddy and eroded roads and avoid these areas.
- Pack in, pack out. When vacating a camp, picnic, trail or parking area remove all litter and debris. Leaving a "no-trace" camp will protect the area as well as leave a pleasant site for others.
- Wilderness use. Groups that plan on hiking in the Mount Timpanogos Wilderness are required to fill out a permit. Hikers will also receive information about the trail conditions, wilderness ethics and the overall information regarding the wilderness.
For the most current information, visitors should contact one of the following Forest Service offices: Heber Range District, 654-0470; Pleasant Grove Ranger District, 785-3563; Provo supervisor's office, 377-5780; Spanish Fork Ranger District, 798-3571.