Walk on the Wild Side
Camping, hiking, boating, horseback riding – Vernal, UT offers it all and more in the surrounding forests, canyons and wilderness areas that dot the region. Get away from the city and explore the scenic and unique landscapes that can only be experienced here.
- Ashley National Forest
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Contact
- Address: 355 North Vernal Avenue Vernal, UT 84078
- Phone: 435-789-1181, 435-784-3445
- Website: fs.usda.gov/ashley
- More Things to Do Ashley National Forest
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Park – Scenic Park
Recreational opportunities abound across 1.3 million acres on the Ashley National Forest! The Ashley National Forest manages 276,175 acres of the High Uintas Wilderness Area offering quiet solitude, as well as access to Kings Peak—the highest peak in Utah.
Camping, boating, hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and wildlife watching provide a great getaway for those seeking outdoor adventure. Over 1,000 miles of road and trails for all-terrain vehicles provide the perfect opportunity for motorized camping and recreation.
- Fantasy Canyon
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Contact
- Phone: 435-781-4400
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Park – Scenic Area
- High Uintas Wilderness Area
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Contact
- Phone: 435-789-1181
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Park – Scenic Area. The High Uintas Wilderness is administered jointly by the Ashley and Wasatch-Cache National Forests.
The High Uintas Wilderness may be accessed from 16 developed trailheads surrounding the wilderness near the gateway communities of Duchesne, Roosevelt, and Kamas, UT, and Evanston and Mountain View, WY. An extensive network of trails (545 miles) leads visitors deep into the wilderness, through thick forests, past rushing streams and placid lakes, to sweeping alpine vistas below majestic peaks. The opportunities for exploration are endless.
- Jones Hole National Fish Hatchery
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Contact
- Phone: 435-789-4481
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Park – Scenic Area
In addition to the hatchery experience, visitors also have a bounty of recreational opportunities to explore in the surrounding area and Dinosaur National Monument, operated by the National Park Service. Hiking, exploring nature trails, fishing, picnicking, photography, mountain biking, spotting wildlife and bird watching are popular recreational activities.
- Ouray National Wildlife Refuge
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Contact
- Phone: 435-545-2522
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Park – Scenic Area
Located 30 miles southwest of Vernal, the primary objective of this refuge is to provide food and cover for 14 species of nesting ducks. However, over 200 species of birds have been documented at the refuge. Interpretive information and viewing facilities are located on site. Expect to see bald and golden eagles, as well as several species of hawks.


