Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, Utah & Wyoming

The Flaming Gorge region of northeastern Utah and southern Wyoming is a remote region of unspoiled vistas and interesting contrasts. The impounded Green River forms a huge reservoir within the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Much of the reservoir sits within a desert region in Wyoming. South of the Utah border the Green originally flowed into a colorful badlands area and then through scenic wooded canyons in the high Uinta Mountains. Hence today's lake offers quite a bit of diverse scenery.

The photo, top, shows colorful badlands, and the Uinta foothills while approaching Flaming Gorge from the south. Red Fleet Lake is in the background. The scenic highway climbs sharply from the desert floor at Vernal, Utah, then crosses the backbone of the Uintas before reaching the lake. Desert vistas quickly give way to wooded mountains.

The photo, right, shows Lake Flaming Gorge to the north, with the Uintas giving way to colorful badlands, and finally desert bottom in Wyoming. The lake is noted for its cold-water fishing. Rainbow trout are abundant and easy to catch as are kokanee salmon if you know where to look. More experienced fishermen can go for giant lake trout.

The Uintas are Utah's highest mountain range with many alpine lakes and trails. Elevation in the Flaming Gorge area is typically about 7,000 feet, with wooded camping areas, streams, hiking trails, and mountain scenery. Wildlife is abundant, particularly antelope near the lake. We once observed a huge golden eagle feeding on carrion alongside the road.

Flaming Gorge is lightly visited, unspoiled, and an excellent destination for a scenic vacation. For more information, visit the official Flaming Gorge NRA web site.