Grizzly Ridge Yurt
Closed for the season through May 21. Reopens May 22, 2026. The yurt is closed during November, April, and May each year. Guests must call the Vernal Ranger District at (435) 789-1181 at least three business days before arrival to obtain the door lock combination. The district office is closed weekends.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.
Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.
Fireworks and Spark Arrestor Order 04-2021-01
Prohibited by this order: Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR §261.52(t)Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order as described…
About
Grizzly Ridge Yurt sits in a small clearing surrounded by pines and aspens at 9,200 feet elevation in Ashley National Forest. The circular structure measures approximately 20 feet in diameter and offers primitive backcountry lodging with views toward Red Fleet Reservoir and Vernal in the distance. Two double bunk beds with full-size mattresses accommodate up to 8 overnight guests. The Forest Service provides firewood and propane for the wood-burning stove and propane lantern. Basic cooking utensils and dishes are available, though guests should bring spare propane bottles and mantles. No plumbing, running water, or electricity is provided. Guests must bring all drinking water, bedding, and personal supplies. A vault toilet is located outside the yurt. Access requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle via Forest Road 181 off US Highway 191. From approximately December 1 through April 30, the final stretch must be traveled by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing; snowmobiles are not permitted on the trail to the yurt. Popular activities include hiking to 9,335-foot Grizzly Ridge, mountain biking, wildlife and wildflower viewing in summer, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area with world-class trout fishing is within 25 miles.
Directions
From Vernal, Utah, travel north on US Highway 191 approximately 25.5 miles. At the snowdrift fence along the curve, turn left (northwest) onto Forest Road 181. At 0.5 miles continue on FR 181 (blue Little Brush Creek sign). At 0.8 miles continue straight on FR 181 (blue Grizzly Ridge sign). At 0.9 miles continue on FR 181/Trail 152B. At 1 mile take the right fork onto Forest Trail 152B heading north. At 1.5 miles stay right to meet the ski trail. At 1.9 miles go left to merge with the ski trail winding up the road. At 2.7 miles the yurt is on the left (south) side. High-clearance 4WD required. From December 1 through April 30, access is by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing only.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $50 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (435) 789-1181 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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