Salt Lake City’s Department of Public Lands scheduled the temporary closure of Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park on Aug. 24, 2026, to facilitate trail improvements and the preservation of historic structures. Located in the Yalecrest neighborhood, the 8.75-acre park is expected to reopen in December 2026.
The $425,000 project is funded by the Salt Lake City Capital Improvement Program. Planned improvements include stabilizing deteriorating trail sections and improving accessibility in key locations. Additionally, crews will work to protect historic stone retaining walls, which were built during the Works in Progress Administration, by raising the trail to cover exposed foundations.
Amy Reid, project manager for the Salt Lake City Department of Public Lands, stated that the park is a beloved community open space. Reid noted that while the closure may be an inconvenience for those who use the park for daily or weekly routines, the closure is necessary to keep visitors safe and allow crews to work efficiently given the narrow trails and limited access points.
During the closure, the Salt Lake City Trails and Natural Lands Division will conduct targeted ecological restoration and wildfire fuel mitigation.
The Department of Public Lands suggested that users explore nearby dog-friendly locations such as Wasatch Hollow Park and Preserve, Parley’s Historic Nature Park, and Rotary Glen while the improvements are underway.
For more information regarding the project, residents can visit https://www.slc.gov/parks/projects/miller-bird-refuge-and-nature-park-capital-improvement-program-projects/.
The park is located at 900 S. Diestel Rd.
