Winter Adventure at the Limber Flag Yurt – Eastern Uinta Mountains, Utah
If you're looking for a remote winter getaway with breathtaking views and solitude, the Limber Flag Yurt in the eastern Uinta Mountains is the perfect destination. Located roughly 33 miles north of Vernal, Utah, and just 16 miles south of Flaming Gorge Dam Visitor Center, this yurt offers incredible views of the Uinta Basin and Red Fleet State Park. On clear nights, you can even see the city lights of Vernal glowing in the distance.
Moonshine Arch is located about 7 miles north of Vernal, UT. Not to be confused with the Moonshine Wash Slot Canyon in the San Rafael Swell, this short trail leads to an amazing arch that is 40 ft high, and 85 ft long. The trail is 90% sand and 10% slickrock, so because of this I highly avoid hiking here in Summer months if you bring your dog (the sand/rock will be too hot for their paws). The best time to hike here is in the afternoon, when the sun lights up the arch and alcove. This trail is super short, so it's great for kids or families visiting from out of state to hike to. Be aware that this trail crosses through an open cattle range, so always have a leash handy and don't disrupt the cattle or other wildlife.
Visiting the Sun Tunnels in Utah – A Solar & Stargazing Sculpture by Nancy Holt
Tucked away in the remote desert of northwest Utah, the Sun Tunnels are a stunning example of land art created by artist Nancy Holt in 1976. Designed to align with the sunrise and sunset during the solstices, this large-scale sculpture also invites visitors to connect with the stars, light, and landscape in a truly unique way.
The Stair Master Trail in Moab, Utah is another short yet very rewarding hike that leads to an amazing overlook of the Moab valley and LaSal Mountains. This hike is only 1 mile to the overlook, yet it gains 820 ft. The Stair Master Trail parallels the Moab Rim Safari Jeep Route, so you are likely to see many Jeeps or Razors tackling the rock obstacles. This trail can get really hot in summer, so I recommend avoiding it in Summer months if you are hiking with your dogs (the slickrock gets too hot for their paws) OR start really early in the morning to beat the heat.
Exploring Maple Canyon – Hiking, Climbing & Fall Colors in Central Utah
Located near Fountain Green, Utah, Maple Canyon is a unique destination known for its dog-friendly hiking trails, world-class rock climbing routes, and stunning fall foliage. The canyon is composed of conglomerate rock, featuring embedded pebbles and boulders, giving it the nickname “cobble climbing”—a favorite among climbers for its unusual texture and challenge.
Maple Grove Hot Springs is located at the Northern end of the Bear River, along the scenic Oneida Narrows Reservoir in South Eastern Idaho. There are three large soaking tubs, plus a larger therapy pool. The tubs are formed from rock and mortar, and every pool offers a great view of the reservoir. This hot springs is not as well known as some of it's neighboring hot springs, so you'll see few people and tourists soaking here. There's no nearby restaurants, so its best to bring your own snacks or picnic lunch and the closest gas station is in Preston, ID. The water at Maple Grove Hot Springs is free flowing, sulphur free, and odor free, so you won't come out smelling like rotten eggs.
The Lily Lake Yurt sits at 9,000 ft elevation in the High Uintas of Utah and is only accessible during winter months. The Bear River Outdoor Recreation Alliance (BRORA), a non-profit corporation, manages the Lily Lake Yurt plus four other yurts including the Bear Claw Yurt, Ridge Yurt, East Fork Yurt, and Boundary Creek Yurt. Getting to the yurt in Winter typically requires snowshoes or skis and a little route finding. BRORA has done a great job of maintaining the yurts, placing trail signs, and protecting the Bear River area.
"People often ask me, "What's your favorite campground?" That would be like asking a mother to pick her favorite child: it really depends on the day, my mood, and who's asking." - Jeffrey Steadman
Here are 10 tips for backpacking Buckskin Gulch! Backpacking Buckskin Gulch is a one of a kind adventure - not only do you get to travel through the world's longest and deepest slot canyon, but you have some of the most amazing views of long hallways with rocks towering 200-300 ft above you, hiking through dark sections of molded rock, climbing over obstacles, but also get to experience camping overnight in this amazing area. While this canyon has been nicknamed the "worlds most dangerous hike" it also often appears as one of the top "must-do hikes" in the world! As long as you go prepared, it's a trip of a lifetime!
Buckskin Gulch: The World’s Longest and Narrowest Slot Canyon
Buckskin Gulch holds the title as the longest and narrowest slot canyon in the world. This serpentine wonder stretches for 45 miles, with towering rock walls reaching heights of 100 to 300 feet. At its tightest point, the canyon narrows to just 2 feet wide, creating a stunning yet intimidating path where the sky is barely visible.