Set amid stunning desert scenery in the middle of nowhere, the small recreation town of Green River makes the ideal base for exploring the wealth of outdoor activities in the southeastern corner of Utah. Top class national parks, rafting along the placid Green River, fishing and four-wheel drive adventures lure visitors here all year round to take advantage of the warm dry weather and laid back atmosphere.
Nobody comes to the town of Green River for the shopping or fancy dining options. You may stock up on supplies, catch a good night’s sleep at one of the friendly motels, or hear tall tales in the rustic bars, but there’s not much to warrant spending your time in the town itself.
It’s the thousands of acres of BLM land, easy access to Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef National Parks, and of course, the Green River that bring outdoor lovers here. Even in the winter the temperatures are pleasantly warm, so whether you’re a river rat, four-wheel drive enthusiast or just enjoy extreme solitude, there’s something for everyone around Green River.
Highlights
John Wesley Powell River History Museum: learn about the natural and cultural history of this region through the adventures of the legendary explorer John Powell.
Green River State Park: boating, fishing, camping and even a nine-hole golf course provide some supervised recreation in this state park.
Goblin Valley State Park: bizarre eroded rock formations and hidden coves make this riverside park a paradise for photographers.
Crystal Geyser: right on the banks of the Green River is a rare cold water geyser that shoots water 100 feet into the air every 12 hours or so.
Arches National Park: more than 2,000 natural rock arches grace this amazing place which also features many other kinds of fantastic geological wonders.
Capitol Reef National Park: the multicolored rock reefs of this expansive park provide endless trails, viewpoints and photographic opportunities.
Canyonlands: one of America’s greatest natural wonders is a vast area of canyons, creeks, Native American petroglyphs and rocks so strange they could only have stepped out of a Dr Seuss story.