By Hannah Haynes
HHaynes@cherryroad.com
As temperatures steadily rise and summer arrives, the Uintah Basin offers an array of activities for both locals and tourists, catering to outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families seeking fun under the sun.
Outdoor adventurers will find plenty to explore in the vast landscapes of the Uintah Basin. The Uinta Mountains, located just north of Vernal, offer exceptional hiking and camping opportunities. Trails range from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks, providing stunning views of alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and rugged peaks. The Ashley National Forest, encompassing much of the basin, also provides ample space for camping, fishing, wildlife viewing and reconnecting with nature.
For those looking to cool off, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a prime destination. Known for its dramatic red rock cliffs and expansive reservoir, Flaming Gorge offers boating, fishing, and water sports. Nearby dining options include the Flaming Gorge Resort and Red Canyon Lodge, two beloved locations.
Families can enjoy a variety of recreational activities at Red Fleet State Park. The park’s reservoir is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing. Additionally, visitors can hike the Dinosaur Trackway Trail to see well-preserved dinosaur tracks along the shoreline.
For those who want an option closer to town, Steinaker Reservoir provides all of the fun with a shorter travel time. Located conveniently near the community, Steinaker Reservoir offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming, making it an ideal spot for a quick getaway.
Dinosaur enthusiasts can step back in time at Dinosaur National Monument. Located at the intersection of the Green and Yampa rivers, the monument features extensive fossil beds and a visitor center showcasing a wall of dinosaur bones. The site offers guided tours, hiking trails, and opportunities to view petroglyphs left by ancient Native American cultures. The Green River, which also flows through the area, is a particularly popular spot for rafting and kayaking, with both serene stretches and challenging rapids.
Families can enjoy a variety of recreational activities at Red Fleet State Park. The park’s reservoir is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing. Additionally, visitors can hike the Dinosaur Trackway Trail to see well-preserved dinosaur tracks along the shoreline.
The Uintah Basin also hosts several cultural and community events throughout the summer. The Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo, held in June, and Vernal’s annual Dinah-Soar Fest, held in August, are beloved summer traditions. The Dinah-Soar Fest features colorful hot air balloons, an outdoor market, and family-friendly activities.
Local museums can be great options that offer indoor attractions for days when the summer heat becomes too intense. The Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum in Vernal showcases regional geology and paleontology, while the Western Heritage Museum in Roosevelt highlights the area’s pioneer history.
While the summer season unfolds in the Uintah Basin, consider exploring one of the many wonders in your own backyard.
