Utah’s tourism industry is a huge part of its economy and culture. According to a report by Travel.gov, most of the visitors go to the Salt Lake City, Provo / Orem or St. George areas.
Visitors who stay in these high-traffic areas will see some amazing sights, but they will miss out on some of Utah’s most unique places. While it doesn’t get the same kind of attention or traffic, the northeast corner of Utah is filled with amazing views and activities galore.
So if the traffic and hustle and bustle of Utah’s five spectacular national parks isn’t your idea of solitude, fill your tank and head northeast. You’re sure to find an adventure (or six) to remember.
High Uintas
Lonely Planet calls the High Uintas Wilderness an “undiscovered mini-Yellowstone”. Located in both the Uintah-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and the Ashley National Forest, the area is well worth the two-hour drive from Salt Lake City. Plan a short day trip hiking, fishing, or paddling along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway.
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For even more adventure, grab your sleeping bag and explore the beautiful wildflowers, picturesque mountain peaks, lush greenery and starry summer skies by backpacking the area.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, Lonely Planet says that layers of rain protection are an absolute must as it’s not uncommon for it to rain or even snow – even during the summer season.
National Dinosaur Monument
If Jurassic Park didn’t prove it, then maybe northeastern Utah can – dinosaurs just bring people together. A visit to Dinosaur National Monument is a prehistoric adventure for the whole family that brings to life the giant creatures that once roamed Beehive State.
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The area covers more than 200,000 acres along the Colorado and Utah borders and is a treasure trove of ancient dinosaur fossils and petroglyphs. Visit the Quarry Visitor Center, 7 miles north of Jensen, where you can learn more about the Dinosaur Monument and take an elevator to the Quarry Exhibit Hall – an enclosed wall containing more than 1,500 dinosaur bones.
Flaming canyon
On a hot summer day, you can imagine the crowds flocking to a reservoir with more than 375 miles of shoreline. But according to Utah.com, the best kept secret of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir is the solitude you will find there.
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Along with that loneliness comes a healthy dose of adventurous relaxation – if that’s what you’re into. From water sports like boating, jet skiing, and kayaking to world-class trout fishing, camping and parasailing, there is something for everyone at Flaming Gorge.
The green river
Of course, there wouldn’t be a Flaming Gorge Reservoir if it weren’t for a Green River first. The river meanders from the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area through the Dinosaur National Monument before crossing much of the state, offering spectacular scenery and all kinds of recreational activities.
The Green River is world famous for its great fly fishing. Wild brown trout are the main quarry with a huge fish population ranging from 15 to 17 inches. But there are also occasional blowholes and trout nearly 30 pounds have been caught.
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“The rugged terrain allows access in only three areas: directly below the dam, Little Hole and Browns Park,” reports Utah.com. “You can go to these places and fish up or down the stream, or swim the river in a drift boat or dinghy.”
If river rafting is your favorite summer pastime – or you hope you can become one – there are several local guides to take you on a whitewater adventure.
Fantasy canyon
You don’t have to be a budding geologist to appreciate Fantasy Canyon near Vernal, but it sure doesn’t hurt. The canyon was formed over time by natural weathering and erosion and is dotted with intricate stone figures that are reminiscent of a child’s fantasy land. With a short (just over 800 m) circular hike that shows the different formations, the Fantasy Canyon is the perfect day trip for adventurers of all ages and fitness levels.
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Begin your journey at the Vernal BLM Field Office for maps, directions, and more information about the canyon.
Red Fleet State Park
The Red Fleet Reservoir has been dubbed Mini-Lake Powell because of the surrounding red sandstone cliffs and sparkling clear water.
Activities in the park include camping, picnicking, hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating. Red Fleet State Park is also known for the Dinosaur Trackway. Dinoland.com reports that hundreds of dinosaur tracks can be seen in the area’s sandstone.
A TripAdvisor reviewer wrote, “I never thought there would be a place like this – where we could actually find fossils ‘in nature’. The best part was our swim at the end of the hike – cliff jumping … and sunbathing on the rocks. … Absolutely recommend this – highlight of every hike we’ve done. “
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This summer, one full tank of fuel is enough to experience adventure in one of the most spectacular corners of the state – and the country, by the way. A day, weekend, or extended visit to Utah’s northeast corner is the perfect outdoor getaway for adventurers of all ages. Be sure to stop by any Maverik location to refill the tank and stock up on your snacks and adventure supplies.
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