Ashley National Forest

06/12/2026

Summer is almost here. Get out and explore your national forests and grasslands. Hike, paddle or camp your way through millions of acres of public lands. Remember to pack out what you pack in and enjoy. (Forest Service photos.)

06/02/2026

Ashley National Forest invites the public to participate in trail clean up and hiking opportunities as we celebrate National Trails Day in events designed to leave trails better than we find them.

Trails Day Events:

🌲Dry Fork Flume Trail🌲
June 6th, 2026 / 10:00am – 4:00pm
Dry Fork Flume Trailhead, Ashley National Forest
Event Description: Light trail maintenance on the Dry Fork Flume Trail, including brushing, cleaning drainage, and tread work.
What to bring: Gloves, sturdy shoes, snacks, and water.

🐟Lower Stillwater Ponds🐟
June 6th, 2026 / 10:00am – 2:00pm
Lower Stillwater Ponds, Ashley National Forest
Event Description: We will be exploring the area, hiking, cleaning up and hopefully catching some fish!
What to bring: Gloves, snacks, water, and fishing pole (June 6th is also Utah’s free fishing day)

National Trails Day is an opportunity to celebrate the trails, campgrounds, and public lands that connect our communities to the outdoors while helping care for the places people enjoy throughout the year.

06/01/2026

You can now purchase firewood permits for the Ashley National Forest through the new online E-Permit system at: https://epermits.fs2c.usda.gov/forest/0401

- Permits may be purchased on a computer or mobile device.
- Prefer in person? Permits are still available at our offices and local vendors.
- If you purchase a permit online, you must print the permit and have it with you when gathering wood.

For more information visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/ashley/forest-products/forest-products-industry

05/30/2026

Calling anglers of all ages: Utah’s annual Free Fishing Day is Sat., June 6. Head up to Moose Pond on the Ashley National Forest and try your luck at fishing for the day – no fishing license required! Forest Service staff will be there from 9 a.m. to noon with extra fishing gear for kids to borrow.

Directions from Vernal, UT

The trip to Moose Pond takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes from Vernal:

1. Travel North: Head north from Vernal on US-191 N for approximately 36 miles.

2. Stay straight and continue onto UT-44 at the intersection of US-191 N and UT-44

3. Continue on UT-44 for about 18.5 miles. The Moose Pond site and parking area will be located on your left.

05/25/2026

05/23/2026

Flaming Gorge Reservoir water elevations are expected to be lower than normal this year due to long‑term drought conditions and increased releases from Flaming Gorge Dam. As water levels drop, access to and use of certain facilities around the reservoir may be affected.

Lower water levels can expose offshore hazards that are normally deep enough to avoid, such as rocks, debris, logs and other objects. Boaters should check current water levels before heading out and know their boat’s draft, or minimum depth needed for the vessel to float without touching bottom.

Learn more at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/ashley/recreation/flaming-gorge-reservoir-water-levels-recreation-facility-updates

05/22/2026

As you plan for your holiday weekend activities, keep in mind that recent storms have brought snow at mid-to-higher elevations. Current road conditions are muddy and may be snow covered. Some areas at higher elevations may be inaccessible.

Please use caution and help protect natural resources by avoiding roads where your vehicle may create ruts or other damage.

05/13/2026

Today, the U.S. Forest Service announced an additional 2026 recreation fee-free day on June 6 in celebration of , providing no cost use of all standard amenity recreation sites on national forests and grasslands.

"For National Trails Day in 2025, Forest Service trail managers, partners, and volunteers hosted 80 events, including 54 stewardship projects, engaging with more than 3,100 volunteers who maintained 173 miles of trail,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “We hope those who love Forest Service trails will join us at the trailhead on June 6, whether it’s volunteering to build new trails, pick up trash near a trailhead, participating in a nature walk, or taking advantage of the fee-free day benefits.”

Find a local National Trails Day event and join the nationwide movement here: https://americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/find-an-event/

05/06/2026

May is Wildfire Awareness Month, and prevention starts long before fire season.

Across the country, the Forest Service is preparing crews, aircraft and equipment, while continuing year‑round work that reduces hazardous fuels and strengthens community protection.

Federal wildland firefighters train, plan and coordinate every day to be ready for whatever the season brings. Learn how agencies are preparing and how you can help prevent wildfires in your community. Every day, everywhere, for everyone — we’re ready. Learn more: https://www.fs.usda.gov/about-agency/features/ready-wildfire (Forest Service photo by Andrew Avitt.)

05/01/2026

Recent snowfall and wet weather have affected travel on the Vernal Ranger District and other parts of the forest. Current road conditions are muddy and may still be snow-covered. Some areas may be inaccessible, especially at higher elevations.

If you plan to travel in these conditions, please use caution and help protect natural resources by avoiding roads where your vehicle may create ruts or other damage.

--Photos shown were taken April 30, 2026, on the Vernal Ranger District.