Nine Mile Canyon - Utah's Outdoor Museum

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Known as Utah’s outdoor museum, Nine Mile Canyon is home to an abundance of well-preserved rock art. The earliest inhabitants were the Fremont Culture, who occupied the canyon between 900 and 1250 AD.

Most of the famous rock art panels were remnants of the Fremont, including the famous “Great Hunt Panel”. This panel has been replicated on many modern art pieces and has been featured in many publications. The beautiful execution, detailed design and well-preserved condition make this panel one of the most recognized and famous rock art sites in Utah. The canyon is a visual textbook of the many cultures and changes that took place in the canyon’s history. You can discover prehistoric sites, Ghost towns of Utah’s early settlers, modern day ranches and current natural gas operations.

Before you visit Nine Mile Canyon, we highly recommend visiting The College of Eastern Utah Prehistoric Museum located in Price Utah. The museum provides information and artifacts about the prehistoric people that once called this area home. The Nine Mile Canyon adventure begins in Wellington Utah at the Millers Travel Center and Gas Station. Located in the parking lot is the Nine Mile National Backcountry Orientation sign that provides information about the canyon. The name “Nine Mile Canyon” is a little deceiving as the canyon is over 40 miles long. From the Wellington turn off to the furthest rock art site is approx. 45.9 miles one way. 

Once you leave Wellington, there are no services, so be sure you have a full tank of gas, food and plenty of water for your venture. Once you have begun your trip several prehistoric sites will be found just off the road while others, including dwellings, can be seen high up on the cliffs. Having a pair of binoculars and a camera will help make most of your experience.

Camping:

The public lands in Nine Mile Canyon are closed to camping. The Nine Mile Ranch provides the only campground in the area.

Day use / Picnic Areas:

Carbon County maintains a day use picnic area at Cottonwood Glen. This site has toilets, a pavilion and tables. Public toilets are also located at Daddy Canyon, near the mouth of Dry Canyon. Neither of these sites has drinking water. Large tracks of posted property are in the canyon, so please respect private property. Help protect this canyon’s history by not touching the rock art and taking nothing but pictures and leaving nothing but footprints. Be aware you may encounter wildlife and livestock on the road. Vehicles are only allowed on designated roads. Cross country travel, including driving in washes, is prohibited.

Nine Mile Canyon Maps:

Free information and maps are located at The College of Eastern Utah Prehistoric Museum located in Price Utah. 

Driving Directions:

From Salt Lake City, take I-15 south to Spanish Fork Utah. Take the Manti/Price exit 258. Travel on US Highway 6 to Price exit 240. Continue through price to Wellington Utah approx. 7.5 miles.