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Lilly pads in a swamp
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Deseret Peak Wilderness

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Photograph taken in the Deseret Peak Wilderness
Credit:
Utah Wilderness Association

Introduction

The United States Congress designated the Deseret Peak Wilderness (map) in 1984 and it now has a total of 25,212 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Utah and is managed by the Forest Service.

Description

Deseret Peak Wilderness is located in the Stansbury Mountains of Tooele County, near the towns of Tooele and Grantsville, not far from the Great Salt Lake. This semi-arid wilderness is part of the Great Basin ecosystem. It contains rugged terrain and high peaks that include Deseret Peak itself at 11,030 feet, and many steep-walled canyons shadowed by rocky outcroppings. Here in the Stansbury Mountains, with barren Skull Valley to the west, you'll find some springs and intermittent creeks, despite the general dryness of the area.

Much of the higher country is alpine, with open basins and barren rocky ridges. From December through May, you can expect much of the high country to be covered in snow. Fir and aspen are commonly found growing in patches at higher elevations. Juniper, mountain brush, sagebrush, and grass cover much of the lower territory. Cattle are still allowed to graze on range allotments in portions of the area.

The summit of Deseret Peak offers a splendid 360-degree view. Backpackers and horse packers enjoy this area. Hunters come in search of mule deer. Some very rough terrain is covered on the trails. Deseret Peak Wilderness has 4 system trails totaling approximately 14 miles. Other system trails access the edge of the wilderness area. Access is limited along the western side of the wilderness.

Planning to Visit the Deseret Peak Wilderness?

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Deseret Peak Wilderness.
  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly
  4. Leave What You Find
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
  6. Respect Wildlife
  7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.