A celebration of the
Colorado River cutthroat trout
City of Vernal, Uintah County
Completed in August 2023, the Dinosaurland Cutthroat mural was painted by artist Chris Peterson for the Vernal City Downtown Alliance in partnership with Vernal City, Dinosaurland Tourism, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, the Utah Cutthroat Slam, Trout Unlimited and Vernal City.
Once widespread across the Colorado River watershed, this subspecies was pushed to the brink of survival by habitat loss, water diversion, and the introduction of non-native trout like brook, brown, and rainbow trout. In recent decades, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and partners have worked to restore Colorado River cutthroat trout by reintroducing them into their historic range and removing competing non-native fish from high mountain streams, helping them rebound in several areas across northeastern Utah.
The Colorado River cutthroat trout is one of Utah’s most colorful and resilient native fish. They can be recognized by their golden bodies, red-orange throat slashes, and vibrant markings. These trout inhabit some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes, from alpine lakes in the Uinta and Boulder Mountains to remote desert streams in the Book Cliffs and La Sals. Each spring, thousands of eggs are collected from broodstock lakes—especially in the Boulder Mountains—and reared for release into streams and lakes where native populations have been restored thanks to decades of habitat restoration, careful stocking, and monitoring.
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These trout spawn in late spring and are most visible in small tributaries with cold, clean water.
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They are found in a wide range of habitats, from alpine basins to desert creeks, as long as year-round water temperatures remain cool.
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During the spawn, their vivid red coloration becomes even more intense, earning them a reputation as one of the most photogenic trout species in North America.
Have Fun and Help Protect Utah’s Native Cutthroat Trout with the Utah Cutthroat Slam
Bonneville cutthroat trout offer excellent angling opportunities for those interested in fishing for them, and they help balance ecosystems by preying on smaller bait fish and various invertebrate life. They exist today as a symbol of resilience and act as a reminder about the vulnerability of Utah’s native fish and the need for Utahns to do our part in preserving their survival through proper care and conservation
The Utah Cutthroat Slam is a challenge to catch, photograph and released at least 1 of each of Utah’s 4 cutthroat trout subspecies in their native waters. Since 2016, the program has raised more than $100,000 for cutthroat conservation in Utah. Register here to start the challenge!
This Wildlife Walls project was made possible through key partnerships.
This project was made possible through partnerships with Utah Cutthroat Slam, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Trout Unlimited, Vernal Downtown Alliance, City of Vernal, Utah Division of Arts and Museums, and Dinosaurland Tourism. This mural is part of this statewide project to install monumental murals in every county of Utah. A QR code is installed on each mural to educate visitors about the species and provide recommendations for nearby firsthand wildlife encounters. ​​
Colorado River Cutthroat Mural
Designed and installed by Chris Peterson Studio
A 3500 Sqft Trout Mural in the Heart of Downtown Vernal
The mural was funded by the Utah Cutthroat Slam – a partnership between the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and Utah Trout Unlimited, the Utah Division of Arts and Museums, the Downtown Vernal Alliance, Vernal City, and Visit Dinosaurland.
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“We are thrilled Vernal has been chosen to participate in the Utah Wildlife Walls project and are thankful for all the partners that helped make it happen,” said Laura Chynoweth, Chair of the Downtown Vernal Alliance. “It has been an honor to be a part of the collaboration - led by the Utah Wildlife Federation and Chris Peterson Studio.
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“While the mural will be here to inspire and educate people for years to come, we like to give the local community a chance to celebrate it together and learn a bout the creature on the wall,” said Utah Wildlife Federation Chair Brett Prettyman. “All wildlife should be celebrated by the citizens of Utah.”
On August 25th 2023, community members and visitors were invited to the mural's unveiling during Dinah-SOAR Days and hear from local wildlife experts on the significance of the cutthroat trout to our area. Partners in the mural were on hand with information about Utah’s four native cutthroat trout, learn how to cast a fly rod, and create cutthroat trout art by painting wood cutouts.
From the Artist
“The Colorado River cutthroat mural was painted in August 2023 during two sessions. I had the help of local painter Josh Simms on the first session, and SLC-based artists Caro Nilsson & Tiffany Rainwater came up to help me on the details. We put the clear coat on the wall just as the Dinah Soar days festivities were kicking off. What an awesome public event that was! With the balloons, the community participation and the education by Utah DWR, this celebration of these native fish was special." -chris peterson
Celebrating Utah's wildlife with big art and wildlife encounters across the state on the Wildlife Walls Mural Trail.
Where to find Colorado River cutthroat trout
The native range of the Colorado River cutthroat trout is a lot larger than many people realize. It spreads across many states, but within Utah, these trout are primarily found in high-elevation streams and lakes. From the northern and southern slopes of the Uinta Mountains to multiple waters across the Boulder Mountains, these trout truly live in some beautiful country. However these fish even survive in some of the more arid parts of the state such as in parts of the Book Cliffs and even as far southeast as the La Sals near Moab. While their historical range was more extensive, conservation efforts have helped restore populations in their native waters.
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We encourage practicing catch-and-release for these special, often restored populations. Proper fish-handling techniques can greatly improve their chances of survival. Keep your fish in the water as much as possible, and wet your hands before handling them to remove the hook, take photos, and release them. Using a rubber net helps protect their slime coat, and minimizing their time out of the water will further ensure their survival. Thank you for doing your part to protect and care for these beautiful native trout!
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Uinta Mountains: High alpine streams and lakes throughout the Uintas support cutthroat populations. Trails near Mirror Lake Highway or Swift Creek provide access.
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Ashley National Forest: Several small creeks and lakes within the forest hold cutthroat trout. Stop by the Forest Service office in Vernal for up-to-date maps and access info.
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Boulder Mountains: Many lakes across the region are managed for conservation and trophy populations of the most gorgeous looking cutthroat you’ve ever seen. The Boulders provide excellent habitat and opportunities to see these native fish in a wild setting, especially in certain lakes of the North Creek drainage where Colorado River cutthroat eggs are collected to aid in stocking efforts.
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Nearby Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
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Desert bighorn sheep @ Split Mountain: Located within Dinosaur National Monument, the cliffs around Split Mountain are home to desert bighorn sheep. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to catch them.
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Elk and deer @ Ashley Nature Park: Just minutes from downtown Vernal, this quiet park features open meadows and wooded edges that attract elk, mule deer, and wild turkeys, especially around dawn and dusk.
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Birdwatching @ Ouray National Wildlife Refuge: This wetland complex along the Green River hosts hundreds of bird species, including white-faced ibis, sandhill cranes, and a variety of ducks and shorebirds. Spring and fall migrations are when activity is at its.
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Rabbits and bobcats @ Red Fleet State Park: Known for its dinosaur tracks and striking red rock scenery, Red Fleet is also home to desert cottontails, bobcats, and many types of lizards. Early morning hikes around the reservoir is the best time to spot elusive mammals.
Wildlife Etiquette: Always observe from a distance, stay on marked trails, and never feed wild animals.
The Wildlife Walls Mural Trail links 14 wildlife murals and 100+ wildlife viewing areas.
The Mural Trail was created to inspire people to get outside; Travel the Mural Trail across Utah’s spectacular landscape to visit epic murals AND enjoy diverse wildlife encounters of your own.
Hit the Mural Trail, share on social media, and tag us & hashtag: #wildlifewalls
For a chance at $5000 cash grand prize and many more prizes from our project sponsors.
ZOOM IN!
to 100+ wildlife viewing areas across Utah
Plan your trip
Travel Amenities
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Bathrooms and Water: Available at Dinosaur National Monument visitor center, Red Fleet State Park, and city parks in Vernal.
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Accommodations: Vernal offers a range of lodging, including hotels, motels, RV parks, and campgrounds. For a unique stay, check out Dinosaurland KOA or local bed-and-breakfasts.
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Fuel and Supplies: Gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants are located throughout Vernal to stock up before heading out on adventures.
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While in Vernal, Consider Exploring:
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Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum: Located in downtown Vernal. Explore full-scale dinosaur replicas, ancient fossils, and hands-on geology exhibits.
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Red Fleet Dinosaur Track Site Trailhead: A short hike from Red Fleet State Park leads visitors to a sandstone shoreline covered in real dinosaur tracks. Best seen in the morning or late afternoon when lighting makes the tracks easier to spot.
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McKee Springs Petroglyphs: Tucked along a scenic backroad within Dinosaur National Monument, these well-preserved Fremont petroglyphs depict human and animal figures etched into the cliffside.
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Nine Mile Canyon: Often referred to as the "world's longest art gallery," Nine Mile Canyon showcases thousands of ancient petroglyphs and pictographs spread across rock faces and alcoves. Though it's about two hours from Vernal, it’s well worth a day trip.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall bring the most comfortable temperatures and active wildlife viewing. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for spotting animals and seeing dinosaur tracks in the best light.
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Be Prepared: Bring binoculars, sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, and plenty of water. Some remote sites, like McKee Springs, may require a high-clearance vehicle.
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Wildlife & Site Etiquette: Stay on marked trails, never touch petroglyphs or fossils, and observe all wildlife from a respectful distance.
Guided Flyfishing trips on the legendary Green River at Dutch John
Come float one of the best dry fly fishing rivers in the world with us!
