Did You Know Utah Is The Only State Where Each County Features Part Of A National Forest?
By Courtnie Erickson|Published March 29, 2024
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Utah has many unique features that set it apart from other states in the country. For example, we are home to the Mighty 5 – some of the most popular national parks in America. We also are home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur bones in the world and also, one of the world’s largest concentrations of natural arches. But, there is one more unique fact that often gets overlooked — Utah is the only state in America where each county contains part of a national forest.
Did you know that approximately 28 percent (or 15 million acres) of Utah’s land is comprised of forests?
While we love the beauty that the forests bring to the Beehive State, these areas are also where recreational opportunities really shine. Dixie National Forest is one of the largest national forests in Utah. Here, you will find nearly two dozen campgrounds including my personal favorite — Posey Lake Campground.
Not far from Escalante, this hidden gem camping spot is next to a small lake and is one of the least touristy places in southern Utah. During a visit, fish, float, or hike the Posey Lake Overlook Trail.
And speaking of hikes … there is nothing quite like the hikes you will find in Utah’s forests. The Wasatch-Cache National Forest is 2.5 million acres and is near Salt Lake City. Here, you will find many popular hiking trails including Stewart Falls, one of the best waterfall hikes in Utah.
This state park is located in Fishlake National Forest and is where you can step back in time to view artifacts and petroglyphs created by the Fremont Indians more than 1,000 years ago.
It’s easy to take for granted Utah’s national forests but when you think about all they offer, they quickly become a favorite part of our great state.
For more information about each of Utah’s national forests, visit the U.S. Forest Service website. And if you do plan to spend time outside on a camping, hiking, or even stargazing trip, visit REI or Backcountry for all necessary gear.
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