Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

John Wesley Powell rode the Green River (Seedskadee) from the present day's town of Green River all the way down to the Colorado and through the Grand Canyon back in 1869.  But I wonder what the river looked like back then?  Today, you have to negotiate a couple of dams so traveling the length is impossible without taking your boat or kayak out of the water, moving it to the other side of the dams and continuing on.

Stunning scenery - Uinta Mountains
(Only east - west mountains in US)

Peek-a-boo!  I see you snow-capped mountain! 

First glimpse of Flaming Gorge

We traveled a scenic byway from the town of Mountain View, skirting along the Uinta Mountains, and stopped at BurntFork's historical marker where the first Rocky Mountain Fur trappers gathered in June/July 1825 to exchange information, resupply their provisions, swap tales, and provide camaraderie to those in attendance.  I was happy to see this area, having read about it in the history books.  And what a beautiful place they chose!  Stunning.

Onward towards Flaming Gorge and come around a bend and bam - right in front of us.  Another stunning, beautiful scene.  Lots of history in this part of southwest Wyoming. Powell remarked back in 1869 that the walls were flaming in color as he rode through on his expedition.  Stopped at the Buckboard Marina that was very active with boaters putting in their boats and taking them out.  Saw RVs camped on the side of the Gorge with their boats floating at the edge.  People swimming, lots of wildlife.  Water was crystal clear.

Osprey nesting

Notice mountains in background?

Lovely setting to camp

Continued on our way into the town of Green River and found the actual launch area Powell started from.  The park where the information plaques are is very informative.

The park commemorating Powell's expedition

Notice boat running over rapids?

Green River a tidge flooded

Have really enjoyed our week's visit here but tomorrow we move on to Lander, Wyoming.  Not our original next destination which was Casper - could not find a place to stay, all campgrounds are booked due to a rodeo that started today.  Wind River Range of the Rocky Mountains here we come!