History
This Is the Place Heritage Park that has been a part of the Salt Lake City landscape for over 150 years. It was established in 1847 by Mormon leader Brigham Young, who famously declared "This is the place" upon seeing the valley for the first time. The park embraces and commemorates Utah's pioneer heritage with monuments, educational programs, and cultural events. It is home to the iconic This Is the Place Monument, as well as numerous other historical sites such as a replica of Fort Douglas and many original buildings from early settlers. Visitors can take part in hands-on demonstrations that bring Utah's past to life. The Park strives to honor the legacy of its founders with a commitment to preservation, education, and culture. It truly is a unique experience that allows visitors to explore Utah's rich history and heritage.
The park was established as a Utah state park in 1957 and thousands of people visit each year.
Wildlife
This Is the Place Heritage Park is home to a variety of wildlife, from birds to mammals. It's important not to disturb the animals, as they are critical to the park's ecology and beauty. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the many species that call this area home, including squirrels, hawks, eagles, swans, and more. The park is home to beavers, deer, and coyotes—all of which are important components of the park's rich ecology.
Geology
This Is the Place Heritage Park is a great place to explore Utah's unique geology. The area around the park features sedimentary rocks that formed from the remnants of ancient seas that once covered the region, as well as volcanic rocks left behind by powerful eruptions. Visitors can also see evidence of ice age glaciation, including moraines and erratics, which are large rocks that were moved from their original location by the force of a glacier.