What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Canyon Rim Trail
The Canyon Rim Trail, an hour southwest of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, is a beautiful scenic trail through the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. The moderately difficult loop trail takes hikers along a canyon rim overlooking the majestic Green River. The views and surrounding nature are unforgettable, and there's a great chance of spotting some local wildlife. In addition to hiking, the loop route is a nice spot for a brisk run as well. Dogs are permitted on the trail but must remain leashed.
Length: 4.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Little Hole Trail
Little Hole Trail is also found near the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area and offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Located along the Green River, the trail is just as popular for fishing and paddleboating as it is for hiking. The out-and-back trail is extremely long, so you'll want to allot most of a day if you intend to traverse the whole thing. Remember to bring your recreation pass as you'll need it to park at the trailhead. The best time to visit Little Hole Trail is between March and November.
Length: 14 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing & Boating
One of the most highly regarded destinations for angling in the area is on the Green River just below the Flaming Gorge Dam. The river is considered to be one of the best fly-fishing spots in the country, inhabited by a huge population of rainbow and cutthroat trout. There are also several boat launches located along the river, and many visitors head out on the water in their raft, kayak, or canoe. For the most part, the river features gentle waters that are perfect for a relaxing day of floating or paddling.
Climbing
One area to go rock-climbing near the John Jarvie Historic Site is the Flaming Gorge Dam Overlook, which features some great bouldering and sport climbing. The formations in the area, which is 45 minutes northwest of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, are quartzitic sandstone, and anyone who climbs them will be treated to impressive views of the landscape. Another area with climbing opportunities is Dinosaur National Monument, which is in Colorado 42 minutes southeast of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch. However, the sandstone is a bit soft and loose, so it's only suitable for skilled, experienced climbers.
Wildlife Viewing
One excellent destination for wildlife observation is Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge, which a wide variety of unique species call their home. The Green River flows right through the refuge, which is located in Colorado 18 minutes southeast of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, and if you're exploring near its waters, you'll want to stay on the lookout for moose, river otter, deer, and elk. In the drier sections of the area, you'll have the chance to spot bighorn sheep and pronghorn. You may want to look up now and then as you may be lucky enough to glimpse a golden eagle or peregrine falcon.
Picnicking
If you're interested in enjoying a picnic at a unique historic location, why not have your lunch right at the John Jarvie Historic Site? You can spend a couple of hours exploring the beautiful on-site ranch and then take a seat to eat and rest while you look over the gorgeous Green River. If you bring a picnic blanket, there should be plenty of suitable areas on the banks of the river to lay it out and relax.
