Green River — Flaming Gorge
About
Cold tailwater releases from Flaming Gorge Dam create 40 miles of premium trout fishing and desert canyon floating through the Ashley National Forest. The Green River here averages 1,800 CFS with optimal flows between 800 and 3,500 CFS, monitored at USGS gauge 09217000. The first seven miles from the dam to Little Hole run Class I-II and constitute the premier fly-fishing stretch, with consistent water temperatures and prolific aquatic insect life. Below Little Hole, the river enters Red Canyon for nine miles of Class II-III whitewater to Indian Crossing, the most technical section of this reach. The final 24 miles from Indian Crossing to Clay Basin drop back to Class I-II through remote desert country in Sweetwater County. Flaming Gorge Resort and Old Moe Guide Service provide outfitted trips through the recreation area. The dam releases create artificial but predictable conditions year-round, making this stretch fishable when natural flows elsewhere run too low or too high.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.