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THE GREAT OUTDOORS — A memorable spring break trip doesn't need to be elaborate or expensive. Utah has tons of destinations that don't require a long drive, flight, or expensive hotel room to enjoy.
We've covered the best spring break spots for northern and central Utah. Now it's time to see what the eastern part of the state has to offer.
Utah Field House of Natural History
Out in Vernal, something incredibly unique awaits. Within an 80-mile range of the small town, you can see all the stages of earth's history. From the time dinosaurs roamed the earth to a Walmart, the entire world's history is on full display.
If you feel like digging for fossils, seeing dinosaur bones, participating in a field paleontology program or admiring rock formations found in few other places in the world, this is a can't-miss opportunity. Plus, there's the added bonus of hotels in Vernal being on the more affordable side.
McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs ==========================
Just northwest of Vernal is the McConkie Ranch, home to some of Utah's best-preserved Native American rock art. Nine Mile Canyon is famous — deservedly so — for its petroglyphs, but McConkie Ranch has it beat in terms of size and accessibility.
The Ranch is on private land and the owners request a $4 donation in exchange for access; however, that donation isn't mandatory.
The entire hike is only a mile and there are over 200 feet of petroglyph panels. The petroglyphs were left by the Fremont Tribe of Native Americans.
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Fishing the Green River =======================
It's one of the most famous trout rivers in the world and for good reason. The Green River below Flaming Gorge Dam is a spectacular fishery that boasts an average of 15,000 trout-per-mile in the "A-Section" (the first 7 miles of river from the dam down to the Little Hole Boat Ramp).
A lot of fly fishermen come from across the world to fish the Green River, and spring is when the river's prolific mayfly hatches start in earnest. You don't have to be an expert fly fisherman to enjoy a day of fishing here, though. The river allows the use of artificial flies and lures, and there are 8 miles of riverside trail that offer access to the water.
If you want to learn a new skill over spring break, the various outfitters in Dutch John, Daggett County, have plenty of fishing guides ready and willing to teach.
Ouray National Wildlife Refuge ==============================
Utah is famous for its national parks, where the wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. Up in the Ouray National Wildlife Refuge, though, you have the chance to see animals most people don't.
Spring is when you'll see the most waterfowl, including herons and sandhill cranes. The refuge gives you the chance to observe these animals in a truly wild setting. The scenery of the Green River running through the refuge is hard to beat, as well.
Eastern Utah has some of the state's best-kept outdoors secrets. From wildlife viewing opportunities to seeing a geological timeline of the earth's entire history, there's something out here for everyone to enjoy.
Do you have a favorite spot to visit in eastern Utah? Have you been to any of the places mentioned above? Let us know in the comments.