Recreation areas opening

PROVO — Uinta National Forest rangers are beginning to open recreation areas for spring.

Cherry Campground in Springville Canyon, Whiting Campground in Mapleton Canyon and Diamond Fork Campground in Diamond Fork Canyon are open.

Snow is melting and roads are drying in several canyons as well. Pole and Salt Creek canyons are open. The south slope of the Nebo Loop is open up to Devil's Kitchen. The lower portion of Hobble Creek Canyon is open. The West Side Road to Strawberry Canyon is open. The road to Soldier Creek Dam has been plowed and is open, as well as the road to Soldier Creek Marina.

The National Forest Service discourages people from launching boats and rafts on Strawberry Reservoir because existing ice poses a safety concern.

In northern Utah County, the south slope of the Alpine Loop is open to Granite Flat. American Fork Canyon is open to the Tibble Fork Reservoir and Pine Hollow. Several day-use areas along the North Fork of American Fork Canyon are open, including Whiskey Springs.

Because many forest roads and trails are still wet and muddy, travel into wet areas is strongly discouraged. Risks include sliding off a road, getting stuck or stranded.

For more information please visit the Uinta National Forest Web site at www.fs.fed.us/r4/uinta or call 801-342-5100.