⛰️ Joe's Valley: A High-Altitude Oasis of Boulders & Turquoise Waters

A panoramic view of the turquoise Lower Seeley River flowing through a canyon of boulders at Joe's Valley, Utah.

The incredible turquoise waters of the Lower Seeley River.

There are some places that hold a special kind of magic, and Joe's Valley in the high mountains of Utah is one of them. It’s a land of incredible contrasts—from the vast, serene expanse of Joe's Valley Reservoir to the vibrant, turquoise energy of the Lower Seeley River that flows from its base. Whether you're seeking a quiet shoreline stroll, a world-class bouldering challenge, or the simple joy of casting a line into a beautiful stream, this hidden gem offers a unique adventure for every kind of outdoor spirit. It’s a place that has become one of my absolute favorites in Utah.

🗺️ Adventure at a Glance

🏞️ Location: Joe's Valley, Manti-La Sal National Forest, Emery County, Utah
🥾 Key Activities: Bouldering, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking/Paddle-boarding, ATV/OHV Riding
📈 Elevation: Approx. 7,000 feet
⏱️ Time to Explore: A full day or a multi-day camping trip
⭐ Shauna's Rating: 💎💎💎💎💎 (5 out of 5 Diamonds)

🌟 The Golden Nugget

Don't Miss This: The Lower Seeley River below the dam is an adventure in itself. The road follows the river, and there are numerous small pull-offs. Don't be afraid to stop at several of them! Thanks to fishermen, many pull-offs have faint trails leading down to the water, each revealing a unique and stunning view of the turquoise river and its giant boulders. It feels like a treasure hunt with a gorgeous reward at every stop.

The Vibrant Lower Seeley River (360):

🥾 The Journey: A Tale of Two Waters

Exploring the Reservoir Shoreline

I headed out one morning from the campground with a goal to see how far around Joe's Valley Reservoir I could walk. It was an amazing adventure, made possible by the low water levels of early spring. Just after the thaw, the water was incredibly clear and beautiful. My favorite spots were on the northeast corner after crossing a small river—the reflections were absolutely lovely! There's also a gorgeous spot near the campground where you can see stunning views of the lake with the massive cliffs on the opposite side. It's the perfect place to enjoy a sunset. I can't wait to get back here with my paddleboard and explore along those cliffs from the water.

Quiet reflections on Joe's Valley Reservoir.

The Turquoise Jewel: The Lower Seeley River

As beautiful as the reservoir is, the river just below the dam is probably my favorite in all of Utah. The Lower Seeley River (sometimes called the Cottonwood River) flows with a unique turquoise color that looks stunning against the beautiful boulders lining its banks. It's a delightful place to spend an afternoon. We loved finding the different trails down to the water, watching the cute lizards scurry, and seeing my husband find the perfect spots to fish among the giant rocks. It's a truly picturesque canyon.

My husband fishing in the beautiful Lower Seeley River.

A Boulder's Paradise & A Hint of History

You can't talk about Joe's Valley without mentioning the world-class bouldering. All along the river and throughout the canyon are massive sandstone boulders that draw climbers from all over the world. Even if you're not a climber, it's incredible to see. As you explore, you might even stumble upon a piece of local history. At one of the pullouts, there's an old mining cart from the Black Diamond and Oliphant Coal Mining Company, a reminder of the area's past before it became a recreational paradise.

Black Diamond and Oliphant Coal Mining Cart with Joes River in background

💡 Pro-Tips & Trail Guide

♦️ Best Time to Go: Spring and Fall offer pleasant weather for bouldering and hiking. Early spring, just after the ice thaws, is when the reservoir is clearest, and low water levels may allow for shoreline hiking.
♦️ What to Pack: Wear sturdy shoes you don't mind getting muddy for shoreline exploring. The area is at high altitude, so weather can change quickly—always bring layers.
♦️ Getting There: Joe's Valley is about 3 hours from Salt Lake City. The roads are paved to the reservoir, but many of the surrounding trails are for ATVs.
♦️ Be Aware: This is a multi-use area. Be mindful of ATVs on the trails and give climbers space around the bouldering problems. Services are limited, so fuel up and grab supplies in Orangeville or Castle Dale.

⭐ Final Thoughts

Joe's Valley truly has it all. It's a place where you can find quiet solitude on the shores of a vast reservoir one moment and then feel the vibrant energy of a flowing river and an active climbing community the next. It’s a perfect destination for a day trip or a long weekend of camping and exploration. I am so grateful for the beautiful clouds and calm waters on my last visit, and I can't wait to return.