SWEETWATER COUNTY — The dog days of summer are coming to an end, but there is still time to experience all the outdoor activities Sweetwater County has to offer.

From boating at the Flaming Gorge to off-roading at the Killpecker Dunes, the county offers a wide range of activities to make the most out of the remaining summer weather.

The Flaming Gorge

Just 20-miles south of Green River, the Flaming Gorge Reservoir and the surrounding area offer some of the best hiking and biking trails. The Bear Canyon Bootleg, Red Canyon Rim and the Wilkins Peak Trail System offer trails for all skill levels.

The Gorge’s roughly 66 square miles of open water draws boaters, paddlers, swimmers and anglers. Multiple marinas serve the lake, including Buckboard Marina where visitors can rent boats, kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, jet skis and wakeboards.

In Green River, Expedition Island and the Green River Whitewater Park and Tubing Channel offer those who want to experience water sports a little closer to home. 

Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge

The Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge spans more than 26,000 acres and is home to rough-legged hawks and migratory birds. The refuge stretches along 36 miles of the Green River and is designated as a “Red Ribbon” river by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Red Ribbon rivers are categorized by having 300-600 pounds of trout per mile of river. 

Anglers looking to compete in the WGFD’s Cuttslam can expect to catch a Colorado River Cutthroat.

Nature’s Sandbox

For off-roading enthusiasts, the Killpecker Sand Dunes offer 11,000 acres of dunes set aside specifically for off-road vehicle and ATV use. The open play area offers flatter areas for novices all the way up to 100-foot high dunes for experts.

For those missing skiing on the slopes, the Killpecker Dunes offer sandboarding. Intrepid adventurers can buy a sandboard or sled at the Rock Springs Visitor Center on Elk Street in Rock Springs. 

Scenic Drives

For those looking to take a nice Sunday drive, the Seedskadee-Killpecker-White Mountain Tour offers a 130 mile loop of Sweetwater County’s beautiful scenery. A quick stop at the 200-to-1,000 year old rock carvings at the White Mountain Petroglyphs can give drivers a chance to stretch their legs and experience a piece of history. 

For an even longer drive, the Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway offers a 150-mile drive through Rock Springs and the Flaming Gorge, ending in Green River. The byway is just one of 37 roads in America designated as an All-American Road.

The Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop offers a shorter 24 mile ride for those not looking for an all day excursion.