Utah / Uintah County / Ashley National Forest

Carter Military Trail Yurt

Closed — Currently closed for the winter season and serving as a non-reservable warming station for snowmobilers from November 1 to May 15. The yurt is available for reservations from June through October. Wheeled vehicle access typically runs June 1 to October 31, though inclement weather can delay opening.

About

Carter Military Trail Yurt provides primitive lodging at approximately 9,800 feet in elevation in the Ashley National Forest. Located on a scenic plateau in the Uinta Mountains, the yurt sits near the historic Carter Military Trail and Highline Trail, approximately 25 air miles northwest of Vernal, Utah. The 224-square-foot yurt can accommodate up to six people and is equipped with a heavy-duty propane case stove for cooking, a wood burning stove for heat, and a folding table and chairs. One portable propane Coleman lantern is provided, and the Forest Service supplies propane for the stove. The yurt provides access to numerous hiking, biking, and off-road vehicle trails, including the Carter Military Trail, which served as a military supply road from the Oregon Trail over the Uinta Mountains to the Uinta Basin. The area features mixed pine forests, summer wildflowers, and abundant wildlife. Nearby attractions include Long Park, Oaks Park and East Park reservoirs, Hacking Lake, Red Lake, and Lily Pad Lake, as well as the Red Cloud Loop Scenic Backway and the Ashley-Karst National Geologic Recreation Area. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is also nearby, offering world-class fishing and water recreation opportunities.

Directions

From Vernal, travel north on U.S. Highway 191 for approximately 20 miles. Turn west (left) on Forest Road 018 and follow for approximately 3.3 miles. Turn west (left) at Forest Road 018/Red Cloud Loop Scenic Backway and continue for approximately 12 miles. At the four way intersection continue straight toward Hacking Lake and Leidy Peak. Continue on Forest Road 043 approximately 4.7 miles. Turn north (right) at Forest Road 026 and follow it approximately 1.7 miles to the yurt.

Nearby Campgrounds