Sterling Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Sterling, Utah.


Introduction to Sterling

Located in the heart of Utah, Sterling is a small city that’s full of natural beauty, rich history, and culture. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, outdoor adventures, and diverse attractions, Sterling is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique travel experience. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Sterling has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Sterling

There are plenty of places to visit in Sterling, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sanpete County Courthouse - Built in 1901, the Sanpete County Courthouse is a historic landmark that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a beautiful building that’s still in use today.
  • Pioneer Heritage Gardens - This is a beautiful park that encompasses more than 3 acres of land and features a variety of flowers, plants, and trees, as well as a pond and a gazebo.
  • Great Basin Museum - This museum offers an in-depth look into the history of Sterling and the surrounding area. It’s a great place to learn about the region’s past.

Natural Attractions of Sterling: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Palisade State Park - The park offers opportunities for swimming, boating, camping, and fishing. It also has some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area.
  • Manti-La Sal National Forest - This is a vast wilderness area that’s perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring. The forest is full of wildlife, including elk and deer.
  • Sterling Town Reservoir - This beautiful reservoir is a great place to go fishing, kayaking, or boating. It’s surrounded by breathtaking scenery and is a must-visit spot in Sterling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sterling

Sterling is a haven for hikers and bikers, with plenty of trails to suit all levels of experience. Some of the best routes include:

  • Sterling Hollow Trail - This is a 3.3-mile out-and-back trail that’s great for hikers and bikers. It’s known for its stunning views and well-maintained trail.
  • Ferron Canyon - This trail is a 5.6-mile loop that offers some of the most breathtaking views in Sterling. It’s a bit more challenging than other trails but is definitely worth the effort.
  • Palisade State Park Trails - Palisade State Park has over 10 miles of trails that are perfect for hikers and bikers. They offer a variety of different terrains and difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone.

Best Things to Do in Sterling: Activities and Tours

Sterling offers a wide range of activities and tours, including:

  • Hot air balloon rides - Sterling is known for its hot air balloon rides, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  • Fishing - Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Sterling is a great place to go fishing. The town reservoir and Palisade State Park offer some of the best fishing in the area.
  • Horseback riding - There are several companies in Sterling that offer horseback riding tours of the surrounding wilderness areas.
  • Golf - Palisade State Park has an 18-hole golf course that’s open to the public and is a great place to spend an afternoon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sterling

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Sterling, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Sanpete County Courthouse and Pioneer Heritage Gardens
Day 2 Hike the Sterling Hollow Trail and enjoy a hot air balloon ride
Day 3 Explore the Great Basin Museum and visit Palisade State Park
Day 4 Horseback riding tour and a visit to Ferron Canyon
Day 5 Golf at Palisade State Park or go fishing at Sterling Town Reservoir
Day 6 Visit Manti-La Sal National Forest for a day of hiking and camping
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery in Sterling.

Food and Drink Scene of Sterling

Sterling has a rich food and drink scene, with plenty of restaurants and bars to suit all tastes. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Scones - This is a traditional Utah dish that’s typically served with honey butter or jam. You can find scones in most restaurants and bakeries in Sterling.
  • Funeral potatoes - This is another Utah dish that’s made with hash browns, cheese, and cream of chicken soup. It’s a delicious comfort food that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
  • Fry sauce - This is a Utah specialty that’s a mix of ketchup and mayonnaise. It’s a great dip for fries and onion rings.

Local Beverages

  • Apple beer - This is a non-alcoholic drink that’s made with apple cider and ginger ale. It’s a refreshing drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
  • Utah beer - Utah has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries producing high-quality beer. Some of the most popular breweries in Sterling include Thirsty Dogs Brewing Company and Red Rock Brewing.

Where to Stay in Sterling: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sterling has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including:

  • The Inn at Palisade State Park - This is a beautiful hotel that’s located inside the state park. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
  • Sterling Legacy Inn - This is a historic hotel that’s located in the heart of Sterling. It offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to all the local attractions.
  • Camping - If you prefer to stay closer to nature, there are several campsites in Palisade State Park and Manti-La Sal National Forest.

What to Buy in Sterling: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home from Sterling, here are some suggestions:

  • Hand-woven rugs - Sterling is known for its traditional woolen rugs that are woven by local artisans.
  • Local honey - Utah has some of the best honey in the country, and you can find it in most grocery stores and farmers’ markets in Sterling.
  • Handmade jewelry - There are several local artisans in Sterling who specialize in making unique, handmade jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Sterling

Utah has a unique culture and customs that are worth exploring during your visit to Sterling. Some of the things to keep in mind include:

  • Religious beliefs - Utah has a strong religious community, and many locals are members of the LDS Church. It’s important to be respectful of these beliefs during your visit.
  • Alcohol laws - Utah has strict alcohol laws, including lower alcohol content in beer and limited hours for alcohol sales in liquor stores.
  • Dress code - Utah has a more conservative dress code than many other parts of the United States. It’s a good idea to dress modestly when visiting public places.

Best Time to Visit Sterling

The best time to visit Sterling is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Avoid visiting in the middle of the summer, when temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sterling

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and beliefs.
  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities on offer.

Don’t:

  • Distract drivers - Utah has strict distracted driving laws, so it’s important to avoid distracting drivers while walking or cycling.
  • Leave trash behind - Make sure to dispose of your trash properly to keep Sterling’s natural areas clean and pristine.
  • Disrespect local wildlife - Utah is home to a wide variety of wildlife, so it’s important to be respectful and keep your distance.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sterling

Sterling is a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always important to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Some tips include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep valuables out of sight.
  • Lock your car doors and windows when parked.

Health in Sterling

Sterling has modern medical facilities and is well-equipped to deal with any medical emergencies. However, it’s always a good idea to bring any necessary medicines and check with your health insurance provider before traveling.

Getting to Sterling: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sterling

  • Salt Lake City International Airport - This is the closest major airport to Sterling, located approximately 130 miles north.

Bus Stations Near Sterling

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - The closest Greyhound station to Sterling is located in Salt Lake City.

Other Options

  • Car rental - Renting a car is a convenient way to get to Sterling and explore the surrounding area.
  • Shuttle service - There are several shuttle services that offer transportation from Salt Lake City to Sterling.

How to Get Around in Sterling

The best way to get around in Sterling is by car or bicycle. There is limited public transportation, so renting a car or bringing your own vehicle is recommended. Biking is also a popular way to explore Sterling’s beautiful natural surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Sterling: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Utah, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Moab - This is one of the most popular destinations in Utah, known for its outdoor activities and stunning red rock formations.
  • Bryce Canyon National Park - This park is home to some of the most incredible natural landscapes in Utah, including towering sandstone pillars and expansive canyons.
  • Park City - This charming town is located just a short drive from Salt Lake City and is known for its world-class ski resorts and upscale dining and shopping.

Conclusion

Sterling is a hidden gem in Utah, full of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. With its unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, Sterling is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience something different. So pack your bags and get ready to explore everything that Sterling has to offer.