SLC.gov

Aug. 21, 2026

Salt Lake City’s Department of Public Lands will temporarily close Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park, 900 S. Diestel Rd., Aug. 24, 2026, for trail improvements and historic structure preservation. Located in the Yalecrest neighborhood, the 8.75-acre park will reopen in Dec. 2026.

“Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park is a beloved community open space,” said Amy Reid, project manager for the Salt Lake City Department of Public Lands. “Its historic stone walls, bridges, and trails create a unique natural and serene setting in the heart of the city. The planned improvements will help protect the character while also improving key trail sections for all visitors.”

The project will:

·         Improve trail accessibility in key locations 

·         Stabilize deteriorating trail sections 

·         Protect historic stone retaining walls – built during the Works in Progress Administration – by raising the trail to cover exposed foundations 

“For many people in the neighborhood, a walk in Miller is part of their daily or weekly routine. We recognize closing it will be an inconvenience, but given the narrow trails and limited access points, it will keep everyone safe and help crews work as quickly as possible,” said Reid.   

The $425,000 project is being funded by Salt Lake City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).  

In addition to the CIP project, Salt Lake City’s Trails and Natural Lands Division will perform targeted wildfire fuel mitigation and ecological restoration during the park’s closure.  

While the park undergoes improvements, the Department of Public Lands encourages users to explore nearby dog-friendly spaces such as Wasatch Hollow Park and Preserve (1631 E 1700 S), Parley’s Historic Nature Park (2740 S 2700 E), and Rotary Glen (2850 E. Sunnyside Ave).  

For more information about the project, please visit:  https://www.slc.gov/parks/projects/miller-bird-refuge-and-nature-park-capital-improvement-program-projects/.