Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Flaming Gorge Reservoir stretches 91 miles (146 km) between Wyoming and Utah, sitting at 6,040 feet (1,841 m) elevation within canyon country. The water winds through narrow gorges with steep rock walls and opens at some points into wide bays with gentle shorelines.

Construction of the dam began in 1958 as part of a hydroelectric project in the Colorado River Basin and was completed in 1964. Flooding transformed the gorge into a reservoir that had previously been traveled by rafters and explorers.

The name comes from the red sandstone walls that glow intensely at sunrise and sunset. Today visitors find a place where boaters and anglers fill the shore with recreational vehicles and watercraft.

Three marinas offer boat rentals and launch ramps, with Lucerne Valley, Buckboard and Cedar Springs accessible throughout the year. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, which can affect the usability of docks and ramps.

Anglers catch lake trout here that occasionally exceed 50 pounds (23 kg) and rank among the largest of their kind. Cold deep water creates conditions that allow such exceptional sizes.

Location: Sweetwater County

Location: Daggett County

Elevation above the sea: 1,842 m

GPS coordinates: 41.16139,-109.55111

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:32