Towering Cliffs and Endless Shoreline
Flaming Gorge
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Elevation:
6,045 Feet
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in Manila, Utah is a stunningly beautiful area located in the northern part of Utah and extending into Wyoming. Spanning over 200,000 acres, it offers breathtaking views of the red sandstone cliffs, deep blue mountain lakes, and lush meadows that are perfect for camping and outdoor recreation. The Flaming Gorge Reservoir is the heart of the area and provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
The recreation area is full of activities for all ages and abilities. A variety of trails are available for hiking, biking or simply exploring the natural beauty of the area. There are several campgrounds spread throughout the area, offering RV sites, tent camping, and primitive camping. Fishing is also popular in the reservoir with brown trout, lake trout, and smallmouth bass being the most common catch. Boating is allowed on the reservoir as well as several smaller lakes throughout the area.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in Manila, Utah also offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities. Along the reservoir are several overlooks and canyons that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There is also a variety of wildlife to be seen, including bald eagles, golden eagles, mule deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.
The recreation area is full of activities for all ages and abilities. A variety of trails are available for hiking, biking or simply exploring the natural beauty of the area. There are several campgrounds spread throughout the area, offering RV sites, tent camping, and primitive camping. Fishing is also popular in the reservoir with brown trout, lake trout, and smallmouth bass being the most common catch. Boating is allowed on the reservoir as well as several smaller lakes throughout the area.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in Manila, Utah also offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities. Along the reservoir are several overlooks and canyons that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There is also a variety of wildlife to be seen, including bald eagles, golden eagles, mule deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.
History
This area was originally home to the Ute Native American tribe, who named it after its brilliant red cliffs. The natural beauty of the region has been preserved due to a combination of careful conservation efforts from both state and federal agencies.
The area was first recorded by Major John Wesley Powell in his 1869 expedition. The name "Flaming Gorge" originates from the description given by a group of Inuit hunters who witnessed the sun setting on the cliffs and sending off colors of red and orange, resulting in the beautiful rock formations we see today.
The area was first recorded by Major John Wesley Powell in his 1869 expedition. The name "Flaming Gorge" originates from the description given by a group of Inuit hunters who witnessed the sun setting on the cliffs and sending off colors of red and orange, resulting in the beautiful rock formations we see today.
Geology
The red sandstone cliffs and rock formations provide a unique landscape that is perfect for rock climbing, rappelling, and spelunking. There are also some incredible fossils to be found here from times past. The area has been formed by millions of years of erosion, creating the cliffs and canyons that make up the area today. Geologists come from all over to study this fascinating landscape, as it provides crucial insight into the Earth's history.
WILDLIFE
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in Manila, Utah is home to a variety of wildlife species. There are over 250 bird species and 70 mammal species, as well as numerous reptiles, amphibians and fish. Bald eagles, golden eagles, bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk and pronghorn antelope can all be seen throughout the area. The reservoir also provides a great habitat for fish, such as brown trout, lake trout and smallmouth bass.
Photo gallery
Planning your trip to Flaming Gorge
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in Manila, Utah is the perfect place for a getaway. With stunning views, abundant wildlife, and plenty of activities to do, there's something for everyone here. Planning your trip depends on what you hope to achieve while visiting the area. Be sure to do some research before you go about local regulations and restrictions that might affect your activities.
Weather conditions can also greatly affect your experience, especially in the winter months. It's important to plan ahead and check the forecast before you arrive so that you can appropriately prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Be sure to check for any necessary permits or fees that may be required for certain activities. Many of the campsites require a permit, and some of the more popular fishing spots may have additional fees associated with them.
NEARBY TOWNS: Manila, Dutch John, and Vernal
MARINAS: Cedar Springs Marina, Lucerne Valley Marina, and Buckboard Marina.
Weather conditions can also greatly affect your experience, especially in the winter months. It's important to plan ahead and check the forecast before you arrive so that you can appropriately prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Be sure to check for any necessary permits or fees that may be required for certain activities. Many of the campsites require a permit, and some of the more popular fishing spots may have additional fees associated with them.
NEARBY TOWNS: Manila, Dutch John, and Vernal
MARINAS: Cedar Springs Marina, Lucerne Valley Marina, and Buckboard Marina.
Lodging / Camping
If you're looking for a place to stay, there are several campsites spread throughout the area. Most of these offer RV sites, tent camping and primitive camping options. For a more luxurious experience, the nearest towns, Vernal, Manila, and Dutch John, Utah, have motels, hotels, and other lodging services for you and your group to choose from.
dining
The nearest towns also have a variety of restaurants that offer a range of cuisines to suit your needs. If you're looking for something more rustic, there are several campgrounds throughout the area that provide basic amenities such as fire pits and barbecue grills.
Fees / Permits
There is no entrance fee for Flaming Gorge but a recreation pass is required for all major boat launches and for the Little Hole National Recreation Trail. For more information about fees and permits, the Flaming Gorge Country website for more details on Flaming Gorge.
Seasons
Flaming Gorge is a year round recreational area. High elevation offers cool summer temperatures at highs of 80 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 30 degrees. Winter attracts snowmobilers and ice fisherman with temperatures that are usually below 50 degrees in the day and below freezing at night.
Fishing
Flaming Gorge is famous for its amazing trout fishing. It is the cool waters and massive fish (several over 30 pounds) that attract fishermen to this reservoir all year long. The record for the reservoir is 51lb and 8oz.
Other great fish from Flaming Gorge are Kokanee salmon and smallmouth bass.
Other great fish from Flaming Gorge are Kokanee salmon and smallmouth bass.
Pets
Pets are not allowed in some areas of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and are not permitted on any trails, beaches or boat launches. It is important to check for any restrictions that might be in place before bringing your pet.