Part Two, Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway....

We continue our journey today on Utah 44 heading for the state line in Manila, Utah. Along this route we caught glimpses of Utah's Uinta Mountains to the east and got just a quick glimpse of nearby Sheep Creek Canyon, which has been designated a special geological area by the Forest Service because of its dramatically twisted and upturned rocks. We knew that a mostly paved 11-mile loop road cuts off from Utah 44, offering a half-hour tour of this beautiful, narrow canyon, a process that began with the uplifting of the Uinta Mountains millions of years ago, but due to time constraints had to pass on that portion of our drive for today. The drive continued north on Highway 44, passing through the lovely green Lucerne Valley.

We eventually reached Wyoming Highway 530 which begins its south end at the Wyoming-Utah State Line. From the state line we headed north, paralleling the west side of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Green River. Continuing north we emerged from the badlands, and the terrain opened up. The route then traveled through the desert, with frequent side roads leading to the shore of Flaming Gorge Lake.

As we continued on, the cactus and sagebrush-filled Devils Playground badlands and the rock formations of Haystack Buttes were off to our left. To the east was the reservoir, and as we continued north, the reservoir diminished. By the time the river enters the city of Green River (upstream), it is a river and not a reservoir. Whew, a lot to take in in 4 short hours. It would have been better to stay over in this area another night in order to see it adequately but we had made prior commitments. Next time we plan to stay 4-7 days & really do it justice. We'd like to launch our Paddleski (Sea Eagle inflatable) on this beautiful river too. And we saw several inviting camping spots along our way today. So, in the words of Arnold, 'We'll Be Back!'....

Jun 15, 2011

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