Garfield County commissioners are looking at establishing an ATV trail and have invited the public to a meeting to discuss the proposal.
The meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 28, in the county courthouse in Panguitch.Commissioners have proposed an all-terrain vehicle trail that would connect the communities of Hatch and Panguitch with the Panguitch Lake, the Fremont ATV trail and other public lands. The project is a joint venture between the county, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, Panguitch City and other interested groups or entities. Designations for the trail are expected to be completed by June.
For more information call Brian Bremner at 676-8826, ext. 119, or Forest Ranger Carl Guillette at 676-8815.
Counties to the north of Garfield have developed the Paiute ATV Trail, which has become so popular that it is traveled by thousands of recreationists each year. Special ATV celebrations are held annually in Fillmore and Richfield, hosting travelers from many states and even some foreign countries.
The larger communities in Sevier, Millard and Piute counties have also designated specific streets for ATV travel so that those who drive on the Paiute Trail can get access to gasoline food and other services. Some kiosks have also been constructed to inform visitors of the sights to see on the Fishlake National Forest and other areas as well as services in the communities for ATV enthusiasts.
That trail extends for nearly 300 miles with many side trails, all well marked for easy travel. Maps are also available from the agencies.
Garfield County is a tourist mecca now with Bryce Canyon National Park, several state parks and the Dixie National Forest providing a wide variety of entertainment for visitors. Creating the new ATV trail is expected to enhance the tourism economy in the area.