Red Canyon: Canyon Rim, Geology and Trails

Canyon Views and Earth History

The Red Canyon Recreation Complex sits high above Flaming Gorge Reservoir at the southern end of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. At the complex, Red Canyon is 700 feet wide; the Red Canyon Overlook is part of the complex. From there, the view spans more than 600 million years of Earth history. The overlook is 1,700 feet above the reservoir. These measurements describe two different points of reference: 700 feet is the width of Red Canyon at the Recreation Complex, while the elevation figure refers to the viewpoint above the reservoir. If you are interested in the landscape, the overlook combines a view of the reservoir with a geological perspective.

Visitor Center and Trails

The Red Canyon Visitor Center offers information about local geology and activities in the area. Water and restrooms are available. The season matters for opening hours: the Visitor Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through mid-September. Check the hours before you arrive if you are planning a visit.

The Red Canyon Rim Trail follows the canyon rim and is clearly marked with blue diamonds on the trees. After about a mile, it passes through the Canyon Rim Campground. The Visitor Center also provides access to longer hiking and biking trails. So, in addition to the specific route along the canyon rim described here, longer hiking and biking trails are another option to consider when planning.

Greens Lake and the Green River

Only non-motorized watercraft are allowed on Greens Lake. Conditions may vary seasonally; take this restriction into account when planning and check conditions before your visit. Nearby, the Green River below Flaming Gorge Dam offers rafting opportunities. A trip down the river offers glimpses of geology, the history of outlaws, and Native American rock art. The two waterways therefore differ in their activities and focus: at Greens Lake, the restriction on watercraft is key, while the Green River offers rafting and a trip with geological, historical, and cultural insights.

Getting There

The Red Canyon Overlook is at the end of the well-signed Red Canyon Road, from mile 3.5 of Utah Highway 44. The Red Canyon Campground is on Forest Road 095, also called Red Canyon Road, off Highway 44. From Vernal, it is about 40 miles north. To reach the Red Canyon Visitor Center from Vernal, take US 191/UT 44; the turnoff to the Visitor Center is about 40 miles from Vernal. These directions refer to different destinations: the overlook, campground, and Visitor Center each have their own road and directional details. Use the directions that match your destination.

For the broader travel overview: Daggett County.