Manila, Dutch John, Utah

Inquisitive explorers in southwest Wyoming can venture over the Utah state line and visit historic sites in Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area.

Straddling Wyoming and Utah, the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area meanders from the high desert of southwest Wyoming to the forested slopes of northeast Utah. Amid this bountiful scenic beauty, you’ll want to survey two historic sites and stop in two little border towns for supplies:

• Swett Historic Site is an early pioneer homestead that interprets the life of a turn-of-the-century Utah ranch family.
• Ute Tower Historic Site is managed as both a working fire-lookout tower and an interpretive site. The tower – Utah’s first and its last still in operation – offers a panoramic view of the Flaming Gorge area and of the northeastern Uinta Mountains.
• The town of Manila, Utah serves as home to the Forest Service headquarters for the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Situated in the transition from vast Wyoming deserts to Utah’s High Uinta Mountains, the town’s unique location allows visitors to easily experience the diversity of Flaming Gorge Country. Area services include a marina, grocery store, lodging and campgrounds. For more information contact the Flaming Gorge Area Chamber of Commerce at 435-784-3483.
• The town of Dutch John, Utah is located between the main launch on the Green River below Flaming Gorge Dam and Little Hole launch-and-load area, which covers the first seven miles of the Green River. Services include raft rentals, guides, fly-fishing equipment and information on the latest hatches.

Swett Historic Site-six miles south of Flaming Gorge Dam off US Highway 191. One half mile north of US Highway 191/Utah 44 junction, follow Forrest Road 158 1.5 miles to the ranch. Road not paved and not recommended for large RV's and trailers. Ute Tower Historic Site-about 20 miles south of Manila, UT off of Utah 44. Take Sheep Creek Geological Loop to the Hickerson Park Road, FR 221. Follow FR 221 one mile west to FR 5, go 1.5 miles to Ute Tower. Roads paved but not recommended for low clearance vehicles.