Iron County

Iron County, Utah is an attractive corner of the state, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor activities. Located in southwestern Utah, Iron County encompasses some 8,000 square miles of terrain ranging from high-desert plateaus to snow-capped mountain peaks. It's home to many small towns and rural communities with a rich history steeped in mining, agriculture and recreation.

Iron County was officially established in January of 1851 and since then it has seen its share of ups and downs. During the late 1800s, Iron County was a popular destination for miners seeking their fortunes in the area's many copper, iron, lead and silver mines. This history is still evident today as many of the county’s small towns, like Iron Springs and Cedar City, are filled with historic buildings that harken back to the county's mining days.

Iron County has also been known for its agriculture. Over the years, local farmers have grown alfalfa, wheat and other grains, and hay crops like barley and timothy. Today, the county is still home to a number of family-owned farms, many of which are engaged in sheep and cattle ranching.

When it comes to recreational opportunities, Iron County has something for everyone. There's no shortage of outdoor activities, from camping and fishing at Quail Creek and Gunlock State Parks to hiking and rock climbing in Cedar Breaks National Monument. Iron County is also home to world-class skiing at Brian Head and a host of other winter sports such as snowmobiling, ice skating and tubing.

Iron County, located in Utah, showcases a diverse landscape that includes the arid reaches of the Escalante Desert and the Great Basin ranges in the west, as well as meadows and forests in the high plateaus to the east. The Markagunt Plateau is particularly noteworthy for its vibrant formations in Cedar Breaks National Monument, reminiscent of a miniature Bryce Canyon. Standing tall at 11,307 feet, Brian Head is a prominent feature in Iron County, named after its resemblance to William Jennings Bryan's profile. Precipitation from passing westerlies contributes to the headwaters of the Sevier River.

Parowan Valley has historical significance as it was home to both the Anasazi and Sevier people in prehistoric times. Their legacy can be seen in the granaries and pithouses dating back to approximately A.D. 750 to 1250. Parowan Gap, located about twelve miles northwest of Parowan, features petroglyphs of various styles and eras etched into the stone. Cedar City serves as the tribal headquarters for the Southern Paiute Indians, who have a deep connection to the basin/plateau environment and utilize its resources in a seasonal manner.

Iron County's geography consists of various landforms, with the Escalante Desert and Great Basin ranges located in the west, meadows and forests in the high plateaus to the east. The Markagunt Plateau is particularly noteworthy for its vibrant formations in Cedar Breaks National Monument, reminiscent of a miniature Bryce Canyon. Brian Head stands tall at 11,307 feet and is named after its resemblance to William Jennings Bryan's profile. Precipitation from passing westerlies contributes to the headwaters of the Sevier River.

Iron County's population is about 45,000 people spread across 8,000 square miles. The county seat is Parowan, located in the high plateau region on I-15, approximately 30 miles north of Cedar City. Other noteworthy towns in Iron County include Brian Head, Enoch and Beryl Junction.

Cedar Breaks National Monument, located in Iron County, is a popular destination for sightseers and enthusiasts of outdoor recreation. The 3,000-foot-deep amphitheater offers spectacular views from its numerous lookouts. Hikers can explore the Monument's lush meadows and forests where they might spot mule deer, marmots or other wildlife. The Cedar Breaks visitor center has exhibits on the area's geology and history, plus helpful park staff to answer any questions.

Iron County is known for its annual Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City. This popular event features live performances of classic Shakespearean plays and other theatrical productions, usually taking place from June through August. The festival also hosts an array of educational activities and workshops throughout the season.