Paddling the Gorge

Leaving from the Sheep Creek Boat Ramp, this paddle follows the lake shoreline with grand views of the colorful cliffs for which Flaming Gorge was named. Keep your eyes peeled for the herds of bighorn sheep that frequent this area.

The goal is to paddle NE for a few miles, turning east at the northern end of Kingfisher Island. Go past the Kingfisher Boat Camp dock and marvel at the convoluted rock formations along this island, as the Lake narrows between towering cliffs.

Total length of paddle is about 6 miles. Novice paddling skills required.

Take care while enjoying the vast waters of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Stick close to shorelines to avoid mid-day boating traffic and afternoon winds. Remember that depths can quickly increase to hundreds of feet as you venture out from the shore. Paddling early and late in the day allows one to have this amazing Lake to yourself – just you and the soaring Osprey overhead! 

Remember to follow all state boating regulations for each location. Planning for a safe outing always helps ensure a rewarding adventure.

This paddling route leaves from the Cedar Springs Marina Public Boat Ramp. Follow the shoreline east for about a mile before turning the corner and heading south. Cart Creek Bridge looms just ahead and your goal is to follow the cliff walls and paddle under the bridge, heading up into narrow Cart Creek.

Total length of this paddle is about 5 miles round trip. Novice paddling skills are required.

Take care while enjoying the vast waters of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Stick close to shorelines to avoid mid-day boating traffic and afternoon winds. Remember that depths can quickly increase to hundreds of feet as you venture out from the shore. Paddling early and late in the day allows one to have this amazing Lake to yourself – just you and the soaring Osprey overhead!

Remember to follow all state boating regulations for each location. Planning for a safe outing always helps ensure a rewarding adventure.

Floating the Green River has become a great adventure for people of all ages.  It is perfect for families, youth groups, or any that want to really experience one of nature’s great wonders.  The Green River  winds through multi-colored canyons with towering thousand foot walls, meanders through historic Browns Park and then gathers its strength at the imposing Gates of Lodore and tumbles through multiple rapids on its way to Split Mountain in Dinosaur National Monument. 

Several options exist for the modern day explorer to experience any level of adventure along these fabled waters.

Flaming Gorge Dam to Colorado State Line (30 Miles)

This section of the Green River does not require a permit for private floaters.  It is divided into 3 section; A, B, and C. Download a map of the Green River here. 

Section A- Dam to Little Hole (7 Miles)

This is the most popular section of the river.  The put-in point is at the base of Flaming Gorge Dam and the take-out point is at Little Hole. On this section the occasional mild whitewater allows for easy-going scenic raft trips that can be enjoyed as a guided float or on your own. Several businesses in the vicinity of Dutch John rent a variety of rafts, inflatable kayaks and dory boats. Bring your picnic lunch, camera and watergun and enjoy a leisurely afternoon on this famous stretch of water!

 If this section is floated straight through, it takes about 3 hours.   One can easily turn this into an all day adventure if you want to take your time and enjoy.  There are places to pull over on the banks of the river for picnics, hiking, looking at birds and other wildlife or seeing or catching the fish from the crystal clear water.  Fishing is renown on this section of the river. Consult the Utah fishing proclamation for regulations.  Before you float check on boating and safety equipment requirements.  Please note that no camping or fires are allowed on this section of the river.

Dutch John Draw is a lovely side canyon off the lake with a few canyon 'fingers' that lead paddlers to poke around in its upper end. The entire paddle is in a lake wakeless zone, so merging with slow boat traffic should not be an issue. Begin this paddle at Mustang Ridge Boat ramp and head east to round the corner and enter the Draw. Depending on afternoon winds, one may want to launch from Sunny Cove, a well marked swim beach located off the Mustang Ridge Road as well.

Total length of this route is about 4 miles round trip. Novice paddling skills are required.

Take care while enjoying the vast waters of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Stick close to shorelines to avoid mid-day boating traffic and afternoon winds. Remember that depths can quickly increase to hundreds of feet as you venture out from the shore. Paddling early and late in the day allows one to have this amazing Lake to yourself – just you and the soaring Osprey overhead!

Remember to follow all state boating regulations for each location. Planning for a safe outing always helps ensure a rewarding adventure.