Located in the heart of Utah, Sanpete County is steeped in the history of the brave pioneers that settled the Sanpete Valley. Rising to the east are the forested hills and highlands of the Wasatch Plateau, and other nearby outdoors opportunities bring people from across the state.
Situated along Highway 89, Sanpete County is off the interstate, and those who live here do so for reasons other than convenience. Proud religious traditions and cultural celebrations are behind the frequent gatherings here, from Scandinavian and Welsh festivals to the annual costumed Mormon Miracle pageant. An abundance of museums dots the towns in this region, giving visitors a glimpse at the history, art, and life of the area's early residents.
Head up into the hills east of Sanpete Valley, and you'll discover the refreshing beauty of the Wasatch Plateau. Running through central Utah, these forested uplands are full of lakes and streams to fish, trails to hike, dirt roads to explore on feet or wheels, and campgrounds to relax in. The Skyline Drive is a well-maintained road that runs along the plateau's spine, with great views in all directions.
The Arapeen ATV Trail- The 350-mile Arapeen Off-Highway Vehicle Trail System is a gem of recreational riding opportunities; it includes Skyline Drive and trails branching from it. OHV Riders can get to the trail via canyon roads in Fairview, Mt. Pleasant, Spring City, Ephraim, Manti, Sterling, Mayfield, Ferron, Castle Dale, and Huntington Canyons.
Skyline Snowmobile Complex-The Wasatch Plateau provides one of the premier snowmobiling complexes in the United States. Over 100 miles of trails are groomed by the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation. There are also countless miles of bowls and un-groomed trails in adjacent areas. Riders can access the snowmobile complex from Fairview, Ephraim, Manti, Mayfield, Ferron, Castle Dale, and Huntington Canyons.
Maple Canyon- Climbers from around the world come to test their skills on Maple Canyon’s unique cliffs. Rock in the canyon consists of cobblestone-sized conglomerate that has eroded to form cliffs. Maple Canyon is a great place for climbers of all abilities, ranging from novice to expert. Camping along with hiking biking and wildlife viewing are also popular activities in this gorgeous area.View more info on Sanpete County climbing.
Skyline Snowkiting Complex- At an altitude of nearly 10,000 feet, the Skyline of the Wasatch Plateau provides plenty of wind, snow, and excitement for snowkiting! The wind can be fairly steady at 10-15 mph. The complex is located between Fairview and Huntington along Highway 31. Snowplows keep the road cleared all winter. Pull-out parking is located at the launch site for convenient unloading.
Wasatch Plateau- Covering over a thousand square miles of central Utah, the Wasatch Plateau's eastern flanks descend into the Emery County area from lofty heights of 10,000 feet or more.Fishing, scenic drives, camping, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle use are all enjoyed in this cooler, greener area.
Skyline Drive- Skyline Drive winds for over 100 miles along the very top of the Wasatch Plateau, providing access to forested mountains, alpine meadows and numerous lakes, streams and camping areas. At elevations ranging from about 9,000 to 11,000 feet above sea level, it is one of the highest roads in America. Views of the mountain basins and surrounding valleys are marvelous.
Yuba State Park- The sprawling waters of Yuba State Park provide a variety of recreation opportunities for visitors. Warm water and sandy beaches, along with nearby off-highway vehicle riding areas, lure visitors during summer months. One of the few state parks with boat-in camping, Yuba is very popular with water recreationists.
Palisades State Park- Seventy-acre Palisade State Park & Reservoir draws swimmers, year-round anglers and non-motorized watercraft enthusiasts. There is also an 18-hole golf course, practice range, professional golf shop and snack bar. Hiking areas abound and Six-Mile Canyon provides excellent off-highway vehicle riding just outside the park.
is home to Fairview Museum of History and Art. The museum is full of historical data, artifacts pictures and artwork. Fairview is also the gateway to the famous Skyline Drive, a 75-mile scenic motor tour that offers over a thousand miles of hiking, biking, ATV and horseback trails.
Mt. Pleasant- The railroad came to Mt. Pleasant in 1890 and along with it came prosperity. Commercial structures along Main Street reflect those good times. Most of the buildings have been preserved to reflect that era. A stroll along Main Street is like taking a walk in the past.
Spring Cityis on the National Register of historic places as a historic district. Most of the buildings on Main Street are historical in nature and many of the residences are pioneer home that have been beautifully restored. The town is nestled underneath the Horseshoe Mountains and is a haven for many local artisans.
Ephraim- In 1854, some Manti residents went north to Cottonwood Creek and were joined by settlers uprooted from Spring City and recent immigrants from Denmark. They hauled rocks and constructed a fort that was the start of the town of Ephraim. The fort in Ephraim helped save the pioneers during The Black Hawk Indian War, one of the longest and most destructive of any conflicts in pioneer history.
Mantihouses several beautiful structures: the County Courthouse, fairgrounds, and the Manti Temple, home of the famous Mormon Miracle Pageant. Full services for travelers are available here.
For lodging information,CLICK HERE.-->
Sanpete County is especially renowned for its pioneer history and culture. Click here for detailed information.
Click here for a calendar of upcoming events in the Sanpete County area.
