About Rasmussen Open Space
Welcome to Rasmussen Open Space, a 220-acre protected area that offers sanctuary to wildlife, recreational opportunities, and an expansive view of the high mountain sagebrush steppe and the stunning Wasatch Back.
Rasmussen is home to the Bob’s Basin and Glenwild Trail System, a collection of trails designed for fun and flow. From hiking and biking in the warmer months to snowshoeing in winter, this open space provides year-round recreation while protecting the area’s natural beauty and wildlife habitat.
If the East Canyon Creek Trailhead parking lot is full, park at one of our additional access locations:
Bad Apple Trailhead
Get directions
Amenities
Protected Open Space
Trailhead
Restroom
Parking
Hiking
Downhill Mountain Biking
Dog On-Leash
Discover Rasmussen Open Space
Basin Recreation was approached by the previous landowner and acquired the open space in 2005 and protected the property forever under a conservation easement with Utah Open Lands in 2009. Prior to Basin Recreation’s ownership, Rasmussen Open Space was used for sheep farming and grazing.
Environmental Importance
Rasmussen Open Space serves as a vital habitat for diverse plant and animal species. Dominated by sagebrush and grasses, this open space also includes Serviceberry, Gambel Oak, and other shrubs that provide essential food for wildlife. East Canyon Creek, part of the East Canyon Creek Watershed, supports 2.3 acres of wetland and riparian habitat, creating a sanctuary for wetland plants like willows, sedges, and Basin Wildrye.
Wildlife
This area provides critical habitat for a range of animals, from moose to small mammals and birds, who rely on it for food, shelter, and survival. By preserving Rasmussen Open Space, we maintain a shared environment where these species can thrive.
Desert Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja angustifolia
Arrowleaf Balsamroot
Balsamorhiza sagittata
Goldenrod
Genus Solidago
Musk Thistle
Carduus nutans
Dyers Woad
Isatis tinctoria
Houndstongue
Cynoglossum officinale
Western Yellow-bellied Racer
Coluber constrictor mormon
Shiras Moose
Alces alces shiras
Rocky Mountain Elk
Cervus canadensis
For information on what you should do when you encounter wildlife, please visit:
Managing Open Spaces
Property Monitoring
The Open Space Team monitors Rasmussen Open Space, documenting noxious weed populations, changes in the property’s habitat, and encroachments throughout the year.
Weed Mitigation
Every year, noxious weeds like Musk Thistle, Teasel, and Dyer’s Woad invade Rasmussen Open Space. With the help of volunteers and partner organizations, Basin limits the spread of noxious weeds by hand-pulling and spraying weeds before they produce seeds.
Restoration
Areas that are disturbed or could use some extra help are the Open Space Team’s target locations when planning restoration events. In 2022, trees were planted with a High School group along East Canyon Creek to enhance the health of the riparian area.
Nearby Open Spaces
Rules & Regulations
No E-bikes
No Overnight Parking
No Motorized Vehicles
No Camping
No Fires
No Hunting
No Firearms
No Fireworks
Dogs
Dogs must be under restraint with a lead, leash, or e-collar with the owner maintaining sight and voice control over dog and a leash on hand.
E-bikes
E-bikes are NOT permitted on single track trails. Exceptions apply for riders on a Class 1 e-bike age 65 or older or persons with mobility disabilities.
Hunting Access
Hunters may cross Basin Recreation property to access adjacent lands open to hunting, but firearms must be unloaded, and archery equipment must not have an arrow nocked.