Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Straddling the border of Utah and Wyoming, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a rugged wonderland of crimson cliffs, emerald forests, and the shimmering, deep-blue waters of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Named by John Wesley Powell for its fiery red sandstone, this 207,000-acre playground offers world-class fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The Flaming Gorge Dam, a 502-foot concrete arch, is a marvel of engineering and the heart of the recreation area. Whether you're casting for trophy trout, cruising the reservoir, or hiking the Highline Trail, Flaming Gorge delivers an authentic Western adventure with fewer crowds than nearby national parks.

Highlights & What to See

• Flaming Gorge Dam & Visitor Center – Take the guided tour of the dam (free) and learn about the area’s geology and history from the top of the dam, with panoramic views.
• Flaming Gorge Reservoir – Perfect for boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The 91-mile-long reservoir is known for its clear water and excellent lake trout fishing.
• Sheep Creek Canyon Geological Area – A scenic drive through a canyon of twisted rock formations, where you can spot bighorn sheep, deer, and even the occasional moose.
• Red Canyon Overlook – A stunning viewpoint of the reservoir and the red-rock canyon below, especially dramatic at sunset.
• Highline Trail – A 14-mile (one-way) trail along the crest of the Uinta Mountains, offering wildflowers, alpine lakes, and sweeping views of the gorge.
• Little Hole – A popular spot for float trips on the Green River below the dam, with calm waters and abundant wildlife.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend one to two days exploring Flaming Gorge. With just one day, drive the Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway (Utah 44), stopping at the dam, Red Canyon Overlook, and Sheep Creek Canyon. For a more immersive experience, add a second day for a boat rental on the reservoir or a hike on the Highline Trail. Anglers often stay three to four days, using the area as a base for fly-fishing the Green River. The recreation area is open year-round, but the best weather for water activities is June through September.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dinosaur National Monument – About 1.5 hours south, famous for its fossil quarry and stunning canyons.
• Ashley National Forest – Surrounds Flaming Gorge, offering additional hiking, camping, and the scenic Mirror Lake Highway.
• Vernal, Utah – The nearest town for supplies and lodging, with the Utah Field House of Natural History.
• Green River, Wyoming – A historic railroad town with access to the river and the western gateway to the recreation area.
• Uinta Mountains – The only east-west mountain range in the U.S., with high peaks and alpine lakes accessible from the Highline Trail.

Please check official sources for current details.