I had driven past Strawberry Reservoir on Highway 40 countless times while visiting dear friends in Heber City, but I had never stopped to hike there. That changed when my friends Pam and Earl invited me to explore Strawberry Narrows Trail with Carson, another friend’s son.
With rolling terrain, reservoir views, sagebrush flats, aspen groves, and pine forest, this is a beautiful Utah hike if you want scenery without a relentless climb.
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♬ Hiking – Ego Store
Strawberry Narrows Trail Details
Strawberry Narrows Trail #804 (also designated #34) is an almost 12-mile point-to-point trail connecting Renegade on the west with Aspen Grove on the east. It’s open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.
You can hike the entire trail by staging a second vehicle or arranging a shuttle. We opted for a 6.5-mile out-and-back hike from Renegade, which is an easy way to customize the distance.
- Our distance: 6.5 miles round trip
- Full trail: 12 miles one way
- Route: Out-and-back or point-to-point
- Trail uses: Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding
- Trailhead: Renegade Day Use Area
- Best seasons: Summer and fall
Hiking From Renegade at Strawberry Reservoir
After a gorgeous drive along Strawberry Reservoir, we started near Renegade Marina in the southwest corner of the lake.
The first mile is fully exposed as the trail crosses a wide sagebrush flat and follows the southern shoreline. There’s little shade, so sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water are essential.
The scenery changes as the trail begins climbing into a forested canyon. We ducked in and out of aspen groves before entering stands of pine. Those aspens would put on quite a show when they turn gold in fall.
Views of The Narrows
The trail follows the southern shoreline of the water-filled canyon connecting the Strawberry and Soldier Creek Reservoirs. This scenic stretch is called “The Narrows.”
At times, we hiked high above the water along steep, forested slopes. The rolling trail moved in and out of the trees, repeatedly opening to beautiful views of the reservoir.
We found a shady spot for a snack before turning around. On our return, dark clouds began building, and we had to pick up the pace across the exposed final mile. Utah mountain weather has a way of reminding you who’s in charge.
A Delicious Post-Hike Stop
After our hike, we headed to the Lodgepole Grill at Daniels Summit Lodge. My grilled cheese and sweet potato fries tasted especially good after 6.5 miles on the trail.
Strawberry Narrows Trail was a wonderful introduction to hiking around Strawberry Reservoir. Whether you tackle the full point-to-point route or create a shorter out-and-back, the mix of water views, aspens, pines, and rolling terrain makes it a detour worthy hike off of Highway 40.
For another hike close to this one, do Foreman Hollow Trail near Daniels Summit. Blood Lake Hike on Guardman Pass is another great hike for summer or fall. For a scenic drive, check out Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. I’ve also shared my favorite places to eat in Heber City.
