Northeastern Utah Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and explore in Northeastern Utah. Read about hiking/biking routes, local culture, safety guidelines, and transportation options.


Introduction to Northeastern Utah

Welcome to Northeastern Utah, an unmissable destination for avid travelers who love the great outdoors and vibrant local cultures. Known for its unparalleled natural beauty, this remarkable region offers an array of scenic landscapes, world-renowned parks, and culturally significant attractions that are worth exploring.

Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a family vacation, Northeastern Utah has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, things to do, and much more. So, pack your bags, and let’s explore this magnificent region together!

List of Places to Visit in Northeastern Utah

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural history of the region. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, including a replica of the dinosaur-filled environment unique to the region.
  • The Western Mining & Railroad Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the area’s mining and railroad history through exhibits and artifacts.
  • The USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum: This museum boasts of an impressive collection of fossils, dinosaurs, and ancient native artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Northeastern Utah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dinosaur National Monument: One of the most popular parks in the region, the area is home to several dinosaur fossils and rock formations. It offers spectacular views of the Green River, hiking, and camping opportunities.
  • Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: Spanning over 200,000 acres across Utah and Wyoming, it provides opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
  • Ashley National Forest: A vast 1.4 million-acre park filled with beautiful mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and dense forests that are home to an array of wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northeastern Utah

  • The Island in the Sky Trail: This moderate hiking trail located in Dinosaur National Monument offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Green River and Yampa River.
  • The Flaming Gorge Rim Trail: A 3.4-mile hiking trail that offers stunning views of Flaming Gorge and the surrounding mountains.
  • The Fantasy Canyon Trail: Located in Uintah County, this trail features unique rock formations, hoodoos, and other geological phenomena.

Best Things to Do in Northeastern Utah: Activities and Tours

  • Rafting on the Green River: A thrilling adventure that allows visitors to explore the beauty of the Green River and its surrounding canyons.
  • Fishing on Flaming Gorge: A popular activity in the region, visitors can catch trout, kokanee salmon, and other fish species in the Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
  • Explore the Ghost Towns: Several ghost towns in the area offer a glimpse into the region’s rich mining history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northeastern Utah

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum, Explore the Fantasy Canyon Trail
Day 2 Hike the Flaming Gorge Rim Trail, Fishing on the Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Day 3 Visit the USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum, Rafting on the Green River
Day 4 Explore the Ashley National Forest, Camping at a designated campsite
Day 5 Visit the Western Mining & Railroad Museum, Ghost Town Tour
Day 6 Hiking at Dinosaur National Monument, Relax at a nearby hot spring
Day 7 Rest day, Enjoy the local cuisine, Visit local shops and markets

Food and Drink Scene of Northeastern Utah

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fry Sauce: A blend of ketchup and mayonnaise that is often served with fried food items.
  • Navajo Tacos: A dish that features a thick, fluffy fry bread topped with beans, lettuce, cheese, and other toppings.
  • Beef Jerky: Northeastern Utah is known for its top-quality beef jerky, which is often served as a snack or used as a hiking fuel.

Local Beverages

  • Fruit Juices and Smoothies: You’ll find several juice bars and smoothie shops in the region that use seasonal fruits to make refreshing beverages.
  • Local Beers: Uinta Brewing Company in Salt Lake City is the largest brewery in Utah that offers local beer varieties.

Where to Stay in Northeastern Utah: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Dinosaur Inn & Suites: A reasonably priced hotel located in Vernal and conveniently close to Dinosaur National Monument.
  • Flaming Gorge Resort: Located in Dutch John, this resort offers an array of accommodations ranging from cabins to RV sites and fishing guides.
  • The Lodge at Red River Ranch: A guesthouse located in Teasdale that offers visitors a quaint rustic experience in the nearby Capitol Reef National Park.

What to Buy in Northeastern Utah: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native American Handicrafts: The region is home to several Native American tribes, and their handicrafts can be found in local stores and markets.
  • Homemade Preserves: You’ll find several roadside stands selling homemade preserves made from the seasonal fruits grown in the region.
  • Rock and Mineral Specimens: The surrounding mountains and valleys provide rich mineral deposits, and visitors can collect unique specimens to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Northeastern Utah

Northeastern Utah is home to several Native American tribes, and their influence can be seen in the region’s art, architecture, and cuisine. Visitors are encouraged to show respect for their culture and engage in cultural tours and activities to learn more about their traditions and way of life.

Best Time to Visit Northeastern Utah

The best time to visit Northeastern Utah is from May to October, as the weather is pleasant, and several parks and attractions are open to visitors. It’s important to note that the summer months can get hot, with temperatures sometimes reaching 100 F, so it’s recommended to plan outdoor activities in the morning and evening.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northeastern Utah

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Carry enough water and food while going for outdoor activities.
  • Adhere to the safety guidelines while exploring the parks and wilderness areas.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the natural environment in any way.
  • Touch or take any cultural artifacts or fossils while exploring the parks and museums.
  • Ignore the safety precautions while participating in adventurous activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northeastern Utah

  • Keep a safe distance from wildlife, as some animals in the region are dangerous.
  • Carry bear spray and learn how to use it when hiking in parks and wilderness areas.
  • Adhere to the rules and guidelines set by the park authorities while engaging in activities such as rafting and fishing.

Health in Northeastern Utah

  • Bring adequate sunscreen, hats, and other sun-protection gear, as the region is sunny and often hot.
  • Stay hydrated and carry enough water while participating in outdoor activities.
  • Seek medical help immediately if you experience any adverse symptoms or medical emergency during your trip.

Getting to Northeastern Utah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northeastern Utah

  • Salt Lake City International Airport
  • Vernal Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Northeastern Utah

  • Salt Lake City (within downtown)
  • Greyhound Station at Price

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Several rental car options are available from Salt Lake City International Airport.
  • Private Transfer: Several private transfer services, including taxis, shuttles, and limousines, are available in the region.

How to Get Around in Northeastern Utah

The best way to explore Northeastern Utah is by car, as most of the parks and attractions are spread out across the region. Several rental car options are available at Salt Lake City International Airport, and the roads in the region are well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Where to Go Next from Northeastern Utah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Moab, Utah: Known for its stunning red rock formations and world-renowned parks such as Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Moab is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming: Located just a few hours’ drive from Northeastern Utah, Grand Teton National Park is known for its spectacular mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
  • Denver, Colorado: A city that offers an array of cultural attractions, including art museums, music venues, and performing arts centers, and is just over an eight-hour drive from Northeastern Utah.

Conclusion

Northeastern Utah is a destination that provides visitors with endless opportunities to explore nature, immerse in local cultures, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or learning about the region’s rich history, there’s something for everyone in Northeastern Utah. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration for your next adventure.



    Dinosaur National Monument
    Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
    Green River
    Vernal