Utah
Utah's 7 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2024
When one thinks of Utah, one may think of the surreal natural wonders that exist within the rugged backcountry, but visiting this unique landscape lies some of the most underrated towns in the country. Often overlooked are the relaxing shores of the Great Salt Lake or the hidden histories that lay within the museums of Tooele. Prepare your bags in 2024 and get out and discover the less explored regions of the Beehive State and be amazed at the attractions that can’t be found anywhere else.
Springdale
Located at the base of the majestic Zion Canyon, Springdale is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Utah. As you enter the town, it’s nearly impossible to miss the towering red cliffs that loom overhead, so be sure to have your camera ready, as each view is worthy of a picture.
Start your journey with a hike through Zion National Park, which has trails for hikers of all levels. The hike is rewarded with beautiful views ranging from cascading waterfalls to towering sandstone formations. For thrill-seekers, plan a canyoneering expedition or conquer the famed Angels Landing trail for unparalleled panoramic views. After an eventful day in the rugged outdoors, head back to town and get a beat in the local culture by visiting the Tribal Arts Gallery. The gallery showcases Native American artwork that pays homage to the ancestors who once thrived in the isolated town.
Riverton
Settled around the year 1850, this town has long been providing a sanctuary amidst the barren landscape of the Utah backcountry. The same rugged outdoors that once made life so difficult now is a haven for outdoor adventures.
Embrace the outdoors with a hike along the picturesque Jordan River Parkway or explore the nearby Oquirrh Mountains for breathtaking views. History enthusiasts can explore Riverton’s past at the Museum of Ancient Life, which features fascinating exhibits of prehistoric creatures and ancient artifacts discovered in the local area. Additionally, continue the exploration by visiting the nearby Wheeler Historic Farm, which shows firsthand how a traditional farm operated before technology evolved. Check local calendars and don’t miss the chance to experience the annual Riverton Town Days celebration, a lively event featuring concerts, parades, and fireworks.
American Fork
What was originally a Mormon settlement, the town sits at the base of the Wasatch Mountain range. The nearby mountains, particularly Mount Timpanogos, provide the perfect opportunity for exploring. Sprinkle in some adventure on your trip, and visit the American Fork Canyon, where you can hike or drive through breathtaking scenery and explore Timpanogos Cave National Monument.
On your return to town, stop by the grand Mount Timpanogos Temple and prepare to be amazed by this magnificent structure that stands out amidst the looming mountains in the background. To learn more about the unique history, book a tour of the American Fork Museum, which walks you through the town’s history from creation to the present day. Lastly, end your day by choosing from one of the delicious restaurants situated in the town’s historic district; the Wild Zucchini Grill comes highly recommended.
Cedar City
During your visit to Cedar City, it will almost be impossible not to have a full itinerary unless you choose to. Take your pick from the variety of options that accommodate any traveler. For the history enthusiasts, start your day with a stroll through the city’s well-preserved historic district, known for its Victorian-era architecture.
The town is also home to the renowned Utah Shakespeare Festival, which draws theater enthusiasts worldwide. But Cedar City’s appeal extends far beyond the stage. It’s also a perfect gateway to the great outdoors. Get outside and venture into the nearby Dixie National Forest, where miles of scenic trails await. For a truly unique experience, schedule a guided tour of the nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument and admire the natural beauty of the towering amphitheater.
Tooele
Located just North of Salt Lake City, this historic town provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Tooele’s history dates to the mid-19th century, when it served as a vital hub for early pioneers and prospectors seeking their fortunes in the American West.
Today, this storied past can be found scattered throughout the city. Attractions such as the Tooele Valley Railroad Museum explain the importance of the region’s railroad heritage. A must-see attraction is the Historic Wendover Airfield & Museum, which provides a fascinating look into America’s most secretive project.
The town was once a hotbed for those seeking to claim their fortune. Explore the town’s mining history, which dates to the early 1900s, during your visit to the Oquirrh Mountain Mining Museum. Lastly, step outside, get some fresh hair, and explore the nearby Oquirrh Mountains, which provide the perfect setting for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
West Haven
If you’re searching for a town with a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, then consider the search being over. West Haven is situated along the banks of the Great Salt Lake and has a heritage that can still be explored today through its well-preserved historic sites and landmarks. Visit the West Haven Historical Society Museum, which offers an extensive collection that traces the town’s evolution.
West Haven is close to the Wasatch Mountains and Antelope Island State Park, which provides the perfect opportunity to get outside and take a hike on one of the many trails located within the park. During the warmer months, lather on some sunscreen and have a beach day at the West Haven beach to take full advantage of the waterfront access.
Vernal
Begin your adventure in Vernal by immersing yourself in its fascinating history. Founded in the late 19th century, you can explore the history of the town by planning a visit to the Uintah County Museum, which takes you back through the town’s native American heritage and early pioneer days. If you want more history, Visit the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum to learn about the region’s prehistoric past and view fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and Native American artifacts. The town is a gateway to some of Utah’s most spectacular outdoor destinations, including Dinosaur National Monument, where you can gaze in astonishment at the fossilized remains of the animals that once roamed the earth.
Utah is one of America’s last wild frontiers, hosting landscapes filled with natural wonders and historical treasures that await your exploration. From the majestic cliffs of Springdale to the serene shores of the Great Salt Lake in West Haven, each town offers the perfect blend of outdoor activities and historical experiences. Whether hiking through the rugged outdoors or learning the fascinating histories in a museum, Utah promises an unforgettable journey in the heart of the American West.
UTAH COUNTY, May 11, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — Two males, ages 14 and 19, were transported to area hospitals Sunday after the side-by-side they were riding rolled down the side of a mountain.
Utah County Sheriff deputies and Santaquin police responded to the 6:07 p.m. call. Two medical helicopters were called to the scene, in the Pole Canyon area, as was a Department of Public Safety helicopter with a hoist in case it was needed, Sgt. Austin Edwards, Utah County Sheriff‘s Office, told Gephardt Daily.
“Eventually, rescue workers were able to make it to the spot on the hill where the vehicle had come to rest, and they were able to secure the victims, stabilize the victims, and get them back down the hill again to where the helicopters were waiting,” Edwards said.
“The 19-year-old male was transported to Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo, and the 14 year old was transported to Primary Children’s in Lehi.”
Both were said to have critical injuries, which were not considered to be life threatening, Edwards said.
“The cause of the rollover is still under investigation, so we don’t have that information available just yet.”
Photos: Utah County Sheriff
In what has a chance to be one of the most important nights in Jazz history, the Utah Jazz jumped in the NBA Lottery to the #2 spot for the upcoming NBA draft.
Here are the final results, which show all the movement.
Aside from it being a massive night for the Wizards, Jazz, Grizzlies, and Bulls, it was a devastating night for a few teams, but no one more than the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers, in their trade for Ivica Zubac, had a stipulation on their pick that if the pick was top-4 they kept it. But if it fell below 4, they would give it to the Clippers which is exactly what happened. Now, the Clippers, who are without Zubac, find themselves with a #5 pick to build around.
For the Jazz this is a culmination of four years of rebuilding that ends with an extremely satisfying end. Utah will now have one of the tier-1 players from this draft: AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson. The player Utah drafts will be one of their cornerstone pieces and will have the chance to not only play, but be a part of a team that will be competing for the playoffs this season.
The Utah Jazz now have a Sinister Six core: Darryn Peterson (If AJ Dybantsa goes #1), Keyonte George, Ace Bailey, Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Walker Kessler (if he signs). It’s quite the core with a mix of youth and veterans in their prime. With this group, the Jazz will have a chance to be one of the top teams in the Western Conference. Yes, the Thunder and Spurs are going to be difficult to beat, but Utah has the mix of talent, coaching, and depth that could absolutely do the trick.
Now the Utah Jazz look forward to the NBA Draft that be on June 23rd. Let the posturing begin!!
PROVO — An organization that has been a beacon of hope for Utah children and families just got a big upgrade in Provo.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County on Friday held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newest facility, marking the start of a new chapter in providing support for those who need it the most.
The new Kent B. Nelson Clubhouse, 131 N. Olympic Blvd., replaces the organization’s former Provo clubhouse, which had been in operation for more than 50 years. Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County leaders said they had outgrown the aging facility and needed a larger, more modern space to support more community members.
“This new clubhouse is more than a building — it’s a central place where we can coordinate programs, support our staff, and amplify our impact across the region,” said David Bayles, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County, in a statement.
The organization’s mission was something the late former Utah County Commissioner Tom Sakievich was passionate about. His wife Marji and daughter Emily Sakievich attended Friday’s grand opening ceremony just as if he would’ve wanted to.
“He loved this project, and it meant the world to him,” Emily Sakievich told KSL. “This was actually one of the last places he went before he passed. (He) and my mom stopped by to just see how progress was going; he would be so excited to see this come together.”
The former commissioner died last December at the age of 72. Tom Sakievich resigned from the seat in September 2024 after being diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer.
Emily Sakievich said her father was a big supporter of helping children in the Boys & Girls Clubs feel supported while he was in office.
“He would have all of them come to his office and talk about how government works and how they can be a part of it someday,” she said.
The new 20,000 square-foot facility expands on resources and programs offered at its previous site for community youth and families experiencing hardships.
The clubhouse will provide safe, engaging, and educational programs in a modernized building fit to serve more than 14,000 Utah children and teens.
A variety of programs including after-school, summer activities and STEM learning will be offered at the new facility. Other resources include internet safety programs, mental health support, nutrition initiatives, and housing assistance for families experiencing homelessness.
“We’ve been able to increase the capacity so much and add preschool and other things; we can even benefit more families — and we can benefit them for a longer period of time, from younger to older, where there are no gaps.” Provo City Council Chair Katrice MacKay told KSL. “So I’m really excited. It’s a fantastic thing for the city and for our residents.”
Leaders of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Utah County say the new $6 million Provo clubhouse was designed as a welcoming space where children and teens can explore new interests, build life skills, and receive mentorship from caring staff.
“The Boys & Girls Clubs have been a cornerstone of youth development in Utah County for decades,” said Janet Frank, board president, in a statement “This new clubhouse strengthens that mission, allowing the organization to extend its reach and impact across the entire region.”
Friday’s event took place while children who attend the Boys & Girls Clubs were in school, so another ceremony for kids and their families is planned for the end of the month.
“The Boys & Girls Club is for every kid out there,” Bayles said. “We want to accomplish what every parent wants for their kids — we want them to have a safe place to learn and grow, to be successful in school, to build social skills and to go on and be great members of society.”
The Key Takeaways for this article were generated with the assistance of large language models and reviewed by our editorial team. The article, itself, is solely human-written.
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