The road to Cascade Springs, in the mountains above Midway, is now open and much safer. The Central Federal Lands Highway Division (CFLHD), Wasatch County, the United States Forest Service, and Utah State Parks have been working together since 2019 to make some dramatic improvements to the roadway. The road was closed throughout the summer but recently reopened to traffic. According to the Federal Highway Administration, although the road is open, construction will continue through October. Visitors are advised to watch for work crews and anticipate delays.
Cascade Springs is “a large artesian spring with naturally-terraced cascades and pools,” according to the U.S. Forest Service website. “Over seven million gallons of water flow through the springs each day.” Cascade Springs is extremely guest-friendly, with boardwalk trails, bridges, benches, and signs. Some areas are handicap-accessible, and restrooms are provided. Wildflowers, trees, and other vegetation are abundant around the springs.
Cascade Springs Road can be accessed through Midway City. The newly-improved road stretches from the boundary of Wasatch Mountain State Park all the way to the Alpine Scenic Loop Road. On the western half of the road, the project included pavement rehabilitation. For the eastern half to Midway, however, work included “complete roadway reconstruction, including slope and roadway stabilization, guardrail, retaining walls, minor roadway realignment to straighten curves, and drainage enhancements,” according to the Federal Highway Administration’s Project Description. The eastern road before construction was a dirt and gravel roadway, with no guardrails and huge drop-offs.
The new road provides safer and more reliable access to the Cascade Springs recreation area. It also enhances the entire Cascade Scenic Drive. The improvements cover approximately 12 miles of mountain roadway.
For more information on the Cascade Springs Scenic Drive or the Cascade Springs Recreation Site, contact the Pleasant Grove Ranger District of the Uinta National Forest at 801-785-3563.
