Scipio UtahATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Scipio, Utah.
1. Fort Scipio Historic Site
PIONEER DEFENSE STRUCTURE
Fort Scipio Historic Site marks the location where settlers built protective mud walls connecting one-room homes in 1866 following an Indian raid. The fort served as protection for the community until 1886 when the structures were dismantled for rebuilding. Today, visitors can explore this historic area that represents an important chapter in Scipio's pioneer history.
2. Scipio Mercantile
HISTORIC ANTIQUE STORE
Scipio Mercantile is a charming antique store housed in a historic building with impressive ghost signs on its exterior. The store offers visitors a glimpse into the past while browsing unique collectibles and vintage items. It serves as both a shopping destination and a preserved piece of Scipio's commercial history.
3. Vintage Sinclair Gas Station
NOSTALGIC PETROLEUM RELIC
The Vintage Sinclair Gas Station features preserved gas pumps that harken back to a bygone era of American road travel. One pump still displays its last sale of $2.06, offering a nostalgic time capsule for visitors. The station stands alongside an old garage, creating a perfect photo opportunity for those interested in automotive history.
4. Historic Scipio Barn
RURAL ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Historic Scipio Barn is an impressive agricultural structure that sits behind an old gate in the heart of town. This well-preserved barn showcases the rural heritage and farming history of Scipio and the surrounding Round Valley. Visitors appreciate the barn's authentic craftsmanship and historical significance to the community.
5. Maple Canyon
WORLD-CLASS CLIMBING DESTINATION
Maple Canyon is renowned for its unique conglomerate walls that attract rock climbers from around the world. The canyon features outstanding hiking trails including the popular Maple Canyon Arch Loop with its 2.78-mile trail and 1332 feet of elevation gain. Visitors can experience both challenging climbs and scenic natural beauty throughout this outdoor recreation area.
6. Meadow Lava Tubes
VOLCANIC UNDERGROUND EXPLORATION
Meadow Lava Tubes offer visitors a chance to explore fascinating underground volcanic formations near Scipio. These natural tunnels were created by ancient lava flows and now provide an adventurous caving experience for explorers. The area also offers camping opportunities, making it ideal for overnight outdoor adventures.
7. Highway 50 Shoe Tree
QUIRKY ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The Highway 50 Shoe Tree is an unusual roadside attraction where travelers have created a tradition of hanging shoes on a distinctive tree. This quirky landmark has become a popular photo opportunity for those traveling along the historic Highway 50. Visitors often add their own footwear to the collection, contributing to this evolving piece of folk art.
8. Ivie Creek
SCENIC FISHING SPOT
Ivie Creek offers peaceful fishing opportunities in the scenic countryside surrounding Scipio. The creek features clear waters that support various trout species, making it popular with local anglers. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil natural setting while trying their luck at catching dinner.
9. Scipio Town Plaza
HISTORIC COMMUNITY CENTER
Scipio Town Plaza marks the central gathering place that was established when the town was relocated in 1863 under Brigham Young's recommendation. This historic space was designed as the heart of the community with a distinctive layout focused on the plaza. Today, the plaza continues to serve as an important landmark representing Scipio's organized Mormon settlement history.
10. Eagle Mountain Pottery
LOCAL CERAMIC ARTISANS
Eagle Mountain Pottery showcases handcrafted ceramic works created by talented local artisans near Scipio. Visitors can browse and purchase unique pottery pieces that often incorporate design elements inspired by the surrounding Utah landscape. The studio occasionally offers demonstrations of traditional pottery-making techniques for interested tourists.
11. Scipio Country Diner
HOMESTYLE HIGHWAY EATS
Scipio Country Diner serves hearty, homestyle meals to both locals and travelers passing through on Interstate 15 and Highway 50. The restaurant is known for generous portions of American classics and friendly service that reflects small-town hospitality. Many visitors make this diner a regular stop on road trips through central Utah.
12. Fillmore Territorial Statehouse
UTAH'S FIRST CAPITOL
The Fillmore Territorial Statehouse is Utah's oldest government building and served as the original state capitol in the 1850s. This historic stone structure now operates as a museum showcasing pioneer artifacts and exhibits about Utah's territorial period. Visitors can tour the building's restored rooms and learn about the political history of early Utah.
13. Fremont Indian State Park
ANCIENT ROCK ART
Fremont Indian State Park preserves one of the largest collections of Fremont Indian rock art and artifacts in Utah. The park features numerous petroglyphs, pictographs, and ruins that date back approximately 1,000 years. Visitors can explore several hiking trails that lead to impressive archaeological sites while learning about this ancient culture through interpretive displays.
14. Yuba State Park
DESERT RESERVOIR RECREATION
Yuba State Park offers outdoor recreation centered around a large reservoir surrounded by distinctive white sandy beaches and desert terrain. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and OHV riding throughout the park's diverse landscape. The contrast between the blue waters and arid surroundings creates a unique destination for water sports enthusiasts in central Utah.
15. Big Rock Candy Mountain
COLORFUL GEOLOGICAL FORMATION
Big Rock Candy Mountain features vibrant yellow and orange mineral deposits that inspired the famous folk song of the same name. The distinctive mountain showcases colorful oxidized iron compounds that create a striking visual landmark along the Sevier River. Visitors can enjoy the scenic viewpoint, nearby resort amenities, and outdoor activities including river rafting and hiking.