Flaming Gorge Backcountry
Flaming Gorge Backcountry is a moderate 100+ miles off-road trail near Manila, UT. It requires a properly built 4x4 with All-terrain tires and is best run May - October. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.
Trail Conditions
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Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area straddles the Utah-Wyoming border, where red canyon walls plunge 1,500 feet to turquoise reservoir waters below. Forest roads on both the Utah and Wyoming sides offer distinctly different experiences. The Utah side features dramatic red rock canyons and desert terrain, while the Wyoming side rolls through high mountain meadows and pine forests. The backcountry roads connect stunning overlooks, secluded fishing coves, and dispersed camping sites that rarely see other visitors. This is one of the most underrated destinations in the Mountain West.
Fun Facts
The gorge gets its name from explorer John Wesley Powell, who noted the flaming red cliffs in 1869.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir holds 3.79 million acre-feet of water, stretching 91 miles.
The 30-pound lake trout record has been broken multiple times here.
The dam was completed in 1964 and created one of the most scenic reservoirs in the West.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
📦 Other
Closest campgrounds to Flaming Gorge Backcountry:
- Rainbow Park Campground · Jensen · 36 mi
- Split Mountain Group Campground · Jensen · 37 mi
- Green River Campground · Jensen · 39 mi
- Gates of Lodore Campground · Maybell · 39 mi
Where to Camp
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Manila, UT
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.