Bear Canyon Bootleg Trail
- Length:
- 3.0 miles
- Difficulty:
- Easy
- Time:
- 1.0 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 7000 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 7000 - 7050 feet
- Fee:
- Recreation Fee Pass required. For more information, call the US Forest Service, Flaming Gorge Ranger District at (435) 784-3445.
- Season Availability:
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Visitor Use:
- Hiking, Biking
An easy trail that provides a fine introduction to the Flaming Gorge area. The double track dirt road is well maintained and offers views of Red Canyon and Lake Flaming Gorge from an overlook at the end of the trail. This is also enjoyable as an evening ride as the sunsets from the viewpoint can be outrageously beautiful.
From Vernal, head north along US 191 for 32 miles to its juntion with UT 44. Continue along 191 for 4 miles to the Flaming Gorge Lodge. The trail is just beyond the lodge and is clearly marked at the trailhead. Simply follow the trail from the road for about 1.5 miles to the overlook, then retrace your route back to your vehicle. Be on the lookout for elk, mule deer and numerous species of birds in the area.
There is also a side route (signed) that leads to the Flaming Gorge Lodge where you'll find a restaurant, grocery store, cabin rentals and gasoline.