Located in the northeastern portion of Utah and southwestern portion of Wyoming, the Ashley National Forest comprises 1.3 million acres. The lands are located in three major area: the northern and southern slopes of the Uinta Mountains, the Wyoming Basin, and the Tavaputs Plateau. The heart of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a 91-mile long reservoir, created by the Flaming Gorge Dam. With over 300 miles of shoreline, boat ramps, full service lodges and marinas, Lake Flaming Gorge is an aquatic paradise. While mostor boating, sailing, swimming, windsurfing, water skiing, and scuba diving are among the lake's popular recreation activities, "The Gorge" is most famous for its fishing. White water rapids and gorgeous canyon scenery also lend to the popularity of river rafting below the dam and hiking Little Hope National Recreation trail. The highly acclaimed Sheep Creek Geological Area is located adjacent to the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. The High Uintas Wilderness encompasses 460,000 acres and is the largest wilderness in Utah. The Ashley National Forest has two Scenic Byways and two Scenic Backways offering spectacular views and experiences off the Interstate Highway system.
Boating and Water Sports
The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a popular boating and water sport area. Boating ramps and marinas are located at several sites around the Lake. There are 26 campgrounds in the immediate area of the Gorge, four of which are accessible only by boat. Boaters and water sport enthusiasts should be especially careful since high winds may be encountered, and the waters of the Lake are cold. Know and obey all State and Federal regulations while using the Lake. The Green River below Flaming Gorge Dam also provides adventures for non-motorized water craft meeting state and federal regulations for river running. Twenty six miles of the Green River are open to approved water craft without permit. Permits from the National Park Service are needed for the 26 miles of the Green River within the Dinosaur National Monument.
Hiking, Backpacking, and Horseback Riding
Over 1,000 miles of trail exist on the Ashley National Forest providing visitors with access to backcountry and wilderness areas. Trailhead locations for many of these trails are listed under trails. Parking, horse unloading facilities, and comfort stations exist at most trailhead locations.
Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
There are areas and trails open to cross country skiing or snowmobile use. Two facilities called "Yurts" are available to rent for overnight stays by cross country skiers. The Yurts are about four to seven miles from the Flaming Gorge - Uintas Scenic Byway. Construction of other such facilities in various areas of the Forest is planned. Brochures about winter sports activities are available at Forest offices. Winter safety tips are included under the section entitled Safety and Health In the Forest.
Directions
There are several access routes into the forest just north of Cedar City from both I15 and US 89.
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