Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a mecca for recreation in northern Utah. Though much of the reservoir is located across the Wyoming border, we still get to claim a piece of it, and we’re lucky to have one of the best views of Flaming Gorge right here in the beehive state. Get a glimpse in the early morning hours to see the canyon light up with beautiful red and orange colors.

The next time you pay a visit to Flaming Gorge, start with the Red Canyon Visitor Center. It’s located on the far south side of the reservoir.

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The Visitor Center is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and it sits 1,360 feet above the water.

Glenda M/Tripadvisor Address: 25 Utah 43, Manila, UT 84046

Red Canyon Visitor Center has several displays about the history of the area, some interactive activities, and often has a viewing scope set up so you can catch glimpses of bighorn sheep. One of the center’s very best features is the floor-to-ceiling windows that capture a gorgeous view of the gorge below.

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This view is spectacular all day long, but if you really want to see something incredible, you’ll want to set your alarm.

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Photographers arrive early at this overlook to set up their tripods, and if you can manage to wake up that early too, you’ll see what all the fuss is about.

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The effect is absolutely breathtaking. All thoughts of climbing back in bed will disappear from your head when you get a look at Red Canyon in all its morning glory.

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Boaters in the know like to head out in the early hours, too, so they’re surrounded by all the deep red and orange colors right down in the gorge.

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If you couldn’t drag yourself out of bed to capture the sunrise, visit at sunset for another brilliant show of colors.

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The Red Canyon Overlook provides one of the best views of Flaming Gorge. Don’t miss it!

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Have you photographed Red Canyon from this viewpoint? We’d love to see your pics in the comments!

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Glenda M/Tripadvisor

Address: 25 Utah 43, Manila, UT 84046

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Royce Bair/Getty Images

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If you’re visiting Flaming Gorge soon, you might want to look into renting these floating cabins.

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