The town of Nephi rests in a beautiful high desert valley at the foot of towering Mount Nebo—the highest peak in Utah’s Wasatch Range. If you’re headed south on I-15 from Salt Lake City, Nephi represents one of the last glimpses of civilization as you leave the sprawling communities of the Wasatch Front and enter into vast stretches of Utah desert and mountain foothills. This puts Nephi in an ideal location; at the edges of the frontier accessing some of Utah’s best wilderness, yet within short drive of Utah’s largest cities.
If you’re stopping in Nephi for the night, there is a handful of hotels right off I-15 and several places to eat. If you’re staying longer, take advantage of the unique nearby attractions. Mount Nebo Scenic Loop begins 6 miles east of town, and stretches 37 miles north into Payson and Utah Valley. This byway reaches an altitude of 9,000 ft and offers amazing views of Mount Nebo Wilderness Area. Devil’s kitchen Geologic Interest, numerous lakes, and views of Utah Valley are along the route. There are myriad trailheads for those who have time to stop and explore.
Just a few minutes north of town are the Burraston Ponds. These ponds, fed by warm springs, offer swimming, fishing, scuba diving, picnicking, and probably one of the best rope swings near Utah Valley. Most of these activities are of course best for summer visitors. 23 miles northeast of Nephi is the old mining town of Eureka. The historic buildings lining the main street are a photographer’s dream, and there is now a mining museum. To the west of Nephi is the West Desert, a recreational Mecca offering places to rock climb, hike, and camp. The Little Sahara Sand Dunes are in that area.
These are just a handful of activities located near Nephi. To learn more about where to stay, eat, or play while you’re in Nephi, visit the links to the left. Nephi is located at I-15 and S.R. 132 in central Utah.
Nephi is located 84 miles south of Salt Lake City, 40 miles south of Provo, 60 miles north of Fillmore, and 42 miles northwest from Manti.
