Red Canyon•Flaming Gorge NRA

00:00     Title
00:15     Flaming Gorge Sunset
03:00     Jug Hollow
06:35     Mustang Ridge
09:25     Red Canyon
18:40     Wyoming Scenic Byway 530
21:33     Fin
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The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is an excellent choice for a lengthy summer vacation because endless outdoor adventures await in this picturesque place. This vast wilderness area spans across the border of Utah and Wyoming, so this destination is far enough north for the daytime temperatures to be comfortable even when the mid summer heat is at a peak. This mountainous region has a deceptively high elevation, so the nights are guaranteed to be comfortably cool. Because Flaming Gorge is located in such a remote area, it is best to make the most out of the experience and setting up a basecamp is best for a lengthy stay. There are many developed campgrounds that offer reservations and national forest dispersed camping is an option.

Red Canyon is the main attraction on the Utah side of this vast recreation area and the access points for this deep canyon are easy to spot on SR 44. There are also a few roadside overlooks and picnic areas that offer views of the high elevation terrain. Interesting information kiosks are usually located in these places. These provide facts concerning everything from the historic Powell Expedition to identifying the local flora and fauna, so be sure to check out these roadside attractions. Lodging, rentals and horseback rides are located near the Red Canyon Welcome Center. 

The pine forest is thick on top of these mountains, so the first view of Red Canyon will be a total surprise. The Rim Trail only meanders a short distance along the canyon near the visitor center, but every step will reveal a breathtaking new view. There is protective fencing along the cliff's edge, which makes this area safe for small children. The cliff edge views of Red Canyon from the Rim Trail are nothing less than spectacular, so be sure to pack a camera along for the trek. There are also a few more scenic overlooks to be found west on SR 44 before crossing the Wyoming State Line that are simply amazing to see, so be sure to tour this end of the park.

Wildlife can be spotted everywhere in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area and one of the best places for viewing Bighorn Sheep is near the west end of the canyon, before the road turns north to Wyoming. In this area the slopes going to Red Canyon descend more gradually, so it is easier for big animals to get to the water. Bighorn tend to drink water in the morning hours, which is good to keep in mind. If there is little other traffic, quietly cruising along SR 44 at a leisurely pace at dawn is the way to take the Bighorn by surprise. Bighorn Sheep are a classic symbol of the wild west and there is nothing better than taking home a trophy photo to share back home!