Welcome to the winter wonderland of The Carbon Corridor, where the rugged beauty of Carbon County, Utah, is transformed into a snowy playground for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. In this blog, we will guide you through the historic spots and outdoor activities that bring The Corridor to life. From the pristine trails in Scofield State Park to historic downtown Helper, the Carbon Corridor offers a diverse range of experiences perfect for any traveler.
1. Music at The Rio
If live music is your jam, you really cannot miss a concert or show at The Rio Theater. Located in downtown Helper, The Rio Theater brings concerts to The Corridor from across the country. It is a hidden gem that attracts talent such as Tyler Gould or Folk Hogan for locals and visitors. Grab a cocktail in town, then spend your night dancing to the music in this newly renovated space.To see upcoming events and performances in The Carbon Corridor check out the events calendar.
2. Check out the History
Aside from having plenty of outdoor activities, The Corridor offers visitors a robust history lesson in coal mining, international settlers, and the area’s prehistoric founders. There are many ways to get to know Carbon County's roots.
Visit USU Eastern’s Prehistoric Museum
If you did not already know, dinosaurs are kinda a big deal in The Corridor, and for a good reason. Dinosaur bones dating back to three billion years ago have been found across the county, and are still being found today! The museum gives visitors the unique experience of not just seeing dinosaurs, but seeing them in their original stomping grounds. With in-house paleontologists and archaeologists, visitors can watch as they sift through artifacts, and piece together the history of the area right before their eyes.
Families and visitors love stopping by the Prehistoric Museum for its Hall of Archeology dating back to the Ice Age, and the Discovery Area, where children can dig and discover on their own. If the Visitors Center is your first stop in The Corridor, then The Prehistoric Museum has to be your second. Located in the same building as the Visitors Center you can easily go from picking up your trail maps and food guide, to The Hall of Dinosaurs.
Stroll through Historic Downtown Helper
For the culture and history lover, downtown Helper is a dream. And with the cover of freshly fallen snow, the area looks like it is straight out of a storybook.
Right when you turn the corner onto N. Main St, you will be welcomed with retro signs and unique storefronts. Start your stroll with a hot beverage and locally made pastry from Happiness Within. Their seasonal flavors will keep you warm and cozy as you take in a winter walk in Downtown Helper.
After, you can pop into the local stores and art galleries that bring the street to life this time of year. The Rio Theater is right downtown making it easy to catch a show after your stroll.
Visit the Helper Museum
Conveniently located in downtown Helper, the Helper Museum is a donation-based organization to easily stop into. Here you can learn all about the rich history of mining in Carbon County. Get up close and personal with artifacts, and enjoy four floors learning about the history of SouthEastern Utah.
Pro-Tip: Make sure you visit the basement, where you can step into a mining tunnel replica, seeing up close the working conditions and wood pillars that held up the dirt while the miners worked.
Start Here to Get Outside
The Carbon Corridor is an outdoor lover’s playground in every season. In the summer, The Corridor comes alive with off-roading, climbing, and activities on the water like floating and fishing. As the seasons change, so do the activities. In winter, locals and visitors alike spend their days ice fishing, fat tire biking on our trails, and tearing up the powder on snowmobiles.
Ice Skating:
When the temperatures drop, ice skating becomes a charming and delightful winter activity. Head over to the Fairgrounds Ice Rink in Price for a classic outdoor skating experience. The rink is open to the public and offers a family-friendly atmosphere with rentals available at the Carbon Events & Recreation Complex. Skate rentals are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Snow Shoeing:
For those who prefer the snow rather than ice, snowshoe rentals are available at the Carbon Events & Recreation Complex as well. Hike through Scofield Reservoir without getting snow in your boots to enjoy views of snow-dusted hills.
Fat Tire Biking:
Fat tire biking has gained popularity as a winter sport, and Carbon County's diverse terrain makes it a fantastic destination for all riders. The Price River Trail, starting in the heart of Price, provides an excellent route for fat tire biking. The trail winds along the Price River, offering a mix of paved and gravel paths.
For those seeking a more challenging ride, explore over 50 miles of trails in the Wood Hill Trail System on the north edge of Price. Remember to dress warmly, as the brisk winter air adds an extra element of excitement to your ride.
Snowmobiling:
Carbon County boasts some of the finest snowmobiling trails in the region, attracting riders of all skill levels. The Scofield State Park and Skyline Drive are popular starting points for snowmobile adventures. The pristine trails wind through snow-covered landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
For an adrenaline-packed day, explore the groomed trails of Scofield Reservoir. These trails provide a perfect blend of challenge and scenic beauty. Don't forget to check the snow conditions before heading out and ensure you have the proper safety gear for an exhilarating and safe ride.
Whether you come to The Corridor to experience the dense history of the area, or come to recreate, there is something for everyone in the family. Visit Carbon Corridor for more visitor information and trip planning tools.