Serving as the seat of Garfield County, Panguitch lies in south-west Utah near Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. Its name comes from a Southern Paiute word meaning “Big Fish”, which reflects the abundance of rainbow trout found in the surrounding lakes. Panguitch was first settled by Europeans in 1864 and the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Things to do in Panguitch
On the edge of the city centre is Panguitch Park, where you’ll find a children’s playground, a splash pad and pickleball courts. There’s a large pavilion that can be rented for celebrations, as well as grassy fields where you can kick or throw a ball around. Also nearby is the Panguitch City Cemetery, where some of the city’s most prominent residents are laid to rest.
Sprawling south-east of Panguitch is Bryce Canyon National Park, which is famed for its red-hued rock spires known as hoodoos. You can drive the Southern Scenic Drive to Bryce Amphitheatre or discover the lookouts along the spectacular Rim Trail. Bryce Canyon is designated as an International Dark Sky Park for its incredible stargazing.
Panguitch serves as a gateway to the Dixie National Forest, which encompasses red sandstone formations and magnificent viewpoints overlooking three states. Marvel at the shimmering blue waters of Navajo Lake, hike to the aptly named Pink Cliffs or go spelunking at Mammoth Cave. Don’t miss the deep, natural amphitheatre of the Cedar Breaks National Monument.
Getting around Panguitch
Panguitch is just over an hour’s drive from Cedar City and Cedar City Regional Airport, which has regular flights to Salt Lake City. Las Vegas and Harry Reid International Airport are four hours away. Long-distance buses connect to Panguitch, although renting a car gives you greater freedom to explore the area.