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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

CARTER MILITARY TRAIL YURT

Manila, Utah · Daggett County · Campground

Overview Carter Military Trail Yurt provides primitive lodging during summer and fall months, and during the winter, it is open to the public as a warming station for snowmobilers. It is located in the Ashley National Forest, at roughly 9,800 feet in elevation. It is approximately 25 air miles northwest of Vernal, Utah…

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40.79083, -109.76000
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About CARTER MILITARY TRAIL YURT

Overview Carter Military Trail Yurt provides primitive lodging during summer and fall months, and during the winter, it is open to the public as a warming station for snowmobilers. It is located in the Ashley National Forest, at roughly 9,800 feet in elevation. It is approximately 25 air miles northwest of Vernal, Utah, and is situated near the historic Carter Military Trail and the Highline Trail. The yurt can be accessed by vehicle, from Vernal, Utah. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety and must bring their own amenities. Recreation The yurt provides access to numerous hiking, biking and off-road vehicle trails, including the Carter Military Trail and the Highline Trail. The Carter Military Trail served as a military supply road from the legendary Oregon Trail in southwestern Wyoming, over the Uinta Mountains and to the Uinta Basin. The route winds up and down hills, through marshes and disappears in some spots, but it remains a significant trail due to its historic and archaeological culture. Many lakes and reservoirs in the area are open to canoeing and fishing.Facilities The yurt is approximately 224 square-feet (less than 16 feet in diameter) and has limited amenities. Indoor plumbing, running water and electricity are not available. It can accommodate up to six people for overnight visits. Parking is available for a maximum of one RV/camp trailer and two vehicles. Tent camping is allowed outside the yurt. The yurt has one bunk bed with full size mattresses that will sleep two-four people. No linens, bedding or pillows are provided. The yurt is equipped with a heavy-duty propane case stove for cooking, a wood burning stove for heat and a folding table and chairs. A vault toilet is located outside. DUE TO COVID-19, COOKWARE AND SILVERWARE WILL NOT BE PROVIDED AT FACILITIES. GUESTS MUST BRING THEIR OWN SUPPLIES AND ARE ASKED TO NOT LEAVE ANY SUPPLIES AFTER STAY FOR PUBLIC HEALTH REASONS. The yurt remains locked; call the Vernal Ra

How to Get There

Follow the mileage indications below and look for signs on the ground when traveling to the yurt. Leave with plenty of time to arrive at the yurt before dark. From Vernal, travel north on U.S. Highway 191 (Vernal Avenue) for approximately 20 miles. Turn west (left) on Forest Road 018. A paved parking lot with a restroom is located at this intersection, but follow Forest Road 018 for approximately 3.3 miles. Turn west (left) at Forest Road 018/Red Cloud Loop Scenic Backway and continue for approximately 12 miles. At the four way intersection continue straight toward Hacking Lake and Leidy Peak. Continue on Forest Road 043 approximately 4.7 miles. Turn north (right) at Forest Road 026 and follow it approximately 1.7 miles to the Carter Military Trail Yurt.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to CARTER MILITARY TRAIL YURT

Heading to CARTER MILITARY TRAIL YURT? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for CARTER MILITARY TRAIL YURT?

No central reservation system listed for CARTER MILITARY TRAIL YURT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234285) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to CARTER MILITARY TRAIL YURT?

Follow the mileage indications below and look for signs on the ground when traveling to the yurt. Leave with plenty of time to arrive at the yurt before dark. From Vernal, travel north on U.S. Highway 191 (Vernal Avenue) for approximately 20 miles. Turn west (left) on Forest Road 018. A paved parking lot with a restroom is located at this intersection, but follow Forest Road 018 for approximately …