Uinta Basin

Here, semi-arid summers give way to achingly beautiful winters. You won’t find any of Utah's major ski resorts nearby but adventure is abundant in this region. Cross-country skiing in the surrounding mountains or trekking across the rolling planes on skate-skis are great ways to spend a winter day in the Uinta Basin.

Peculiar stone structures have been intricately carved by weathering and erosion at Fantasy Canyon. Take a short 0.6 mile loop trail to explore this miniature canyon up close. Located near Vernal, you’ll be following oil service roads where navigation can get tricky, so be sure to bring a map.

Many creeks and tributaries trickle down from the foothills of the Uinta Mountain and flow into the Duchesne River. This is a favorite spot among both beginner and experienced anglers. Mountain whitefish and cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout are common catches. Stay mindful to avoid crossing into private property.

The Green River, fed by the Duchesne River and its tributaries, arcs in from Colorado on the northeastern side and slices the Uinta Basin in half. Anglers catch mostly brown trout on this stretch of the river. Although bites may be a bit few and far between, this is where the river’s largest fish can be found.

The desert highlands on the northern edge of the Uinta Basin, just west of Vernal, are home to pronghorn, wind and the mountain bike track network of McCoy Flats. This non-motorized trail complex with up to 35 miles of interconnecting paths holds something for all abilities.