Named for the abundant box elder trees in the area.
Box Elder County
A hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Box Elder County is a county located in the northeastern corner of Utah. It was named for the abundant box elder trees in the area. It is bordered by Idaho to the north and northeast, Cache and Weber County to the east and Tooele County to the south. Its county seat and largest city is Brigham City.
The area that is now Box Elder County was originally inhabited by the Shoshone and Gosiute Native Americans, who used the area as a hunting ground. The white settlers arrived in 1851, establishing several small towns throughout the county. Brigham City was settled in 1856 by Mormon pioneers under the direction of Brigham Young. It became an official city in 1867 and was eventually named the county seat. The Utah and Northern Railroad was built through the county in 1878, which helped spur economic growth. During World War II, an airbase was built in Brigham City, serving as a training ground for pilots.
Geography
The terrain of Box Elder County is mostly flat, with some rolling hills in the eastern part of the county. It is located at an elevation of 4,487 ft above sea level. The climate is semi-arid desert, with cold winters and hot summers. The average annual temperature is approximately 45°F, and annual precipitation is around 15 inches. The county has five major rivers: Bear River, Little Bear River, Malad River, Ogden River and Weber River.
Things To Do
Spiral Jetty
The Spiral Jetty, located in the Great Salt Lake State Park, is one of the most popular attractions in Box Elder County. This man-made sculpture is made of earth and concrete, stretching 1,500 feet into the lake. It was created in 1970 by artist Robert Smithson and is considered one of his most iconic works.
Golden Spike National Historical Park
The Golden Spike National Historical Park is located in Box Elder County, just east of Brigham City. It is the site of the famous completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad in 1869. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, witness re-enactments of this important event and learn about its significance in American history.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a wetland ecosystem located in the far northern part of the county. It covers nearly 80,000 acres and is home to many species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. The refuge provides numerous opportunities for bird watching, fishing and other outdoor activities.
Planning a trip to Beaver County
Box Elder County is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape is diverse, with several beautiful parks and rivers to explore. There are also plenty of great restaurants and shops in Brigham City and other towns throughout the county. Visitors can experience the history and culture of this unique part of Utah while still enjoying modern amenities. With so much to see and do, visitors will find plenty of reasons to return to this amazing county.
Box Elder County has something for everyone whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation. With its beautiful scenery, historic sites and unique attractions, it’s no wonder why so many people are drawn to this part of Utah each year.
lodging
Box Elder County has a variety of lodging options to choose from. The county is home to several bed and breakfasts, campgrounds and resorts. Visitors can also find a number of hotels in the area.
dining
Box Elder County is a great place to find delicious eats. From local diners and cafes to restaurants serving up classic American favorites, the options are plentiful. For those who love seafood, there are several places that serve fresh catches from the nearby Great Salt Lake.
Seasons
Spring in Box Elder County can be a beautiful time of year, as wildflowers bloom and the landscape comes alive. The summer months are hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. Fall is a great time to visit, as the changing leaves provide stunning scenery. Winter is cold and snowy, offering plenty of opportunities for winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing.