Ashley National Forest Dinoland
High Uintas, Flaming Gorge, and Red CanyonThe Forest
Spanning 1.3 million acres across northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming, the Ashley National Forest is the heart of Dinosaurland’s outdoor recreation. This is a land of extremes—home to both the arid, colorful cliffs of Flaming Gorge and the towering, snow-capped summits of the High Uintas.
Whether you are seeking high-altitude solitude in the backcountry or a lakeside campsite for the family, the Ashley National Forest provides the ultimate playground for explorers
A Legacy of Exploration
The forest remained largely unchartered by the U.S. until the 19th century, when General William Henry Ashley and his team of fur traders first explored the rugged terrain. Named in his honor, the area was later declared a National Forest and has since become a premier destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and campers.
Major Landmarks & Activities
The High Uintas Wilderness: Home to Kings Peak, the highest point in Utah at 13,528 feet. This primitive area is a hiker’s paradise, featuring over 500 miles of trails and hundreds of high-alpine lakes filled with trout. It’s one of the few mountain ranges in North America that runs east-to-west!
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area:
Located 35 miles north of Vernal, the "Gorge" is famous for its vibrant red canyon walls and deep blue waters. It is a world-class destination for:
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Fishing: Catch trophy-sized lake trout and kokanee salmon.
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Boating: Full-service marinas and secluded coves.
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Rafting: Enjoy a scenic float on the A-Section of the Green River below the dam.
Red Cloud Loop: A premier scenic drive that takes you from the desert floor through aspen groves and pine forests, offering incredible views of the Uinta Mountains.
Adventures for Every Season
Scenic Drives & Ancient Art
Experience the forest from the comfort of your car on these three legendary backways:
Red Cloud Loop: A 70-mile rugged loop north of Vernal. You’ll climb from desert sagebrush into lush aspen groves and pine forests with sweeping views of the Uinta peaks.
Nine Mile Canyon: Often called "The World’s Longest Art Gallery," this 80-mile drive (turn off at Myton) features thousands of Fremont petroglyphs, ancient granaries, and 19th-century pioneer history.
Jones Hole: A 40-mile drive from Vernal leading to a hidden oasis. Visit the National Fish Hatchery and hike the 1.5-mile trail to Deluge Shelter to see incredible indigenous pictographs.
Hiking & Backpacking
With over 1,000 miles of trails, there is a path for everyone:
For Experts: The Highline Trail stretches 100 miles (163.5 km) from Hayden Pass to McKee Draw, requiring several days to complete.
For Families: The Tamarack and Jessen Lake Trail is a 3.8-mile (6.1 km) loop around Spirit Lake. It’s relatively flat, takes about 1.5 hours, and starts near the Spirit Lake Trailhead.
Winter Exploration
When the snow falls, the forest transforms into a winter wonderland:
Yurt Stays: For a unique backcountry experience, rent the Grizzly Ridge or Limber Flag yurts. These off-grid shelters sleep up to eight people (no running water/electricity—come prepared!).
Skiing & Snowmobiling: Explore groomed cross-country trails near Flaming Gorge or hit the open powder on designated snowmobile routes.
ATVs & Horseback Riding
Many of our trails are open to motorized use and equine travel.
ATVs: Rent a ride from local outfitters like Lofty Peaks Adventures.
Horses: Follow in the footsteps of General William Ashley and the early fur trappers. Guided trips are available for those who want a true Western experience.
Fishing & Wildlife
The Ashley National Forest is a premier destination for both anglers and nature lovers. Because the forest spans from high-desert canyons to alpine peaks, it supports a massive variety of fish and animal species.
World-Class Angling
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Flaming Gorge Reservoir: Famous for its trophy-sized lake trout, some weighing over 50 pounds. You can also find high-energy kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass.
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The Green River: The "A-Section" below the Flaming Gorge Dam is a legendary tailwater fishery, boasting thousands of trout per mile. It is a bucket-list spot for fly fishing.
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High Uinta Lakes: Hike into the backcountry to discover over 500 high-alpine lakes. Many are stocked with brook, cutthroat, and tiger trout, offering a serene fishing experience.
Abundant Wildlife Viewing The forest is a sanctuary where many species of wildlife can be found in their natural habitats. Whether you are driving the scenic backways or hiking the deep wilderness, keep your binoculars ready:
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Big Game: It is common to see moose in the marshy willow flats, bighorn sheep on the red canyon cliffs, and large herds of elk and mule deer in the high meadows.
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Unique Sightings: Look for mountain goats and the whistling pika in the rocky terrain of the High Uintas. You may also spot pronghorn antelope in the lower sagebrush flats.
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Birds of Prey: The skies are home to golden eagles, ospreys, and peregrine falcons, while the reservoir shores are great for spotting bald eagles in the winter.
Forest Headquarters
Entry and camping fees apply. Please check the official park website for up-to-date pricing.
355 North Vernal Avenue
Vernal, UT 84078
435-789-1181
Know Before You Go
Variable Terrain: Elevations range from 6,000 to over 13,500 feet. Temperatures can drop significantly as you climb, even in the middle of summer.
Seasonal Access: High-elevation roads (like the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway) often remain snow-covered until late June or early July.
Wildlife Safety: You are in Bear Country. Always store food properly in a vehicle or bear-proof container. You may also spot moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats.
Visitor Centers: For maps and current conditions, visit the Forest Service offices in Vernal, Flaming Gorge, or Duchesne.
Stay the Night
Experience the stars at some of our favorite sites: