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Sanpete County, located in the heart of Utah, is packed with
many fascinating historical sites and natural wonders. The
county was settled in the 1800's by Mormons sent from Salt
Lake City, who undoubtedly appreciated the area's beautiful
mountains, lakes, and other treasures. Located only 100 miles
from Salt Lake City, it has many things to see and do, ranging
from outdoor activities to historic towns.
Spring City is one of
the county's original Mormon settlements. The city is listed
on the National Historic Register. It is the best remaining
example of early Mormon colonization.
The beautifully restored Main Street and revived original
store fronts of nearby Mount
Pleasant are worth a visit. A walking tour map is
available for those who enjoy the history of these interesting
buildings.
The town of Manti is
home to the Temple of the Latter Day Saints, built by the
first pioneers. The Mormon Miracle Pageant, which is held on
the temple hillside each summer, draws thousands of visitors
from all over the world, as it depicts the story of the
church's early history and the first settlers in Sanpete.
Ephraim is home to
Snow College, a great junior college with a real hometown
feel. It's also the annual home of the wonderful Scandinavian
Festival, celebrating the heritage of the county's original
Mormon settlers.
A little further down the road is Sterling,
home to a new 18-hole golf course. The beautiful state park
located in the town offers opportunities for fishing, camping,
and many water sports.
Sanpete was the central stronghold for the mighty Ute
nation. You'll want to make it a point to visit the markers
that are being placed at the sites of the Blackhawk War
battles. The Horseshoe Mountain Festival in Mount Pleasant
honors the descendants of the pioneers and Native Americans
who fought in the war.
During the summer months the county is busy with many
exciting festivals. Besides Ephraim's Mormon Days festival,
regional celebrations include the Mormon Miracle Pageant, Lamb
Days, the July 24th Pioneer Youth Pageant, and the Horseshoe
Mountain Festival, as well as various Independence Day
parades, rodeos, fireworks, and historic home tours.
There are several art and pioneer museums worth visiting in
the area. You won't want to miss the giant Colombian Mammoth,
located in the Fairview Museum. The county also produces
handmade items and crafts. Take some time out to browse one of
the quaint stores in the area that features local crafts.
Scenic Byway 31 zigs its way through Fairview Canyon. The
drive over this excellent road is breathtaking, with wild
flowers in summer, stunningly colorful foliage in autumn, and
pure white snow everywhere in the cold months, creating a
winter wonderland.
Sanpete has ten beautiful historic bed & breakfast inns
and eleven comfortable motels for your lodging needs. There
are a variety of restaurants available, as well as several
fast food establishments.
Come fish, hike, bike, ski, snowmobile, or just watch the
beauty of nature in the beautiful mountains of Sanpete County.
The high country holds moose, elk, deer, big horn sheep, and
mountain goats. There is also a variety of wild birds,
including eagles, hawks, and geese, among others.
Sensational Sanpete County...it's one of the most beautiful
places on earth. |