What The?!!? Utah Has Only One Small Town On Top 100 List!??!

I'm sorry, when I see something that I consider to be a huge pile of steaming sh....aving cream, I have to call it out. So when this list from Far And Wide came out and listed Moab as the only top 100 small town in the U.S. from Utah, I have to call foul.

No disrespect to the fine folk over in southeastern Utah. Moab does have lots to offer. You've got Arches National Park in the back yard, and Canyonlands National Park is within striking distance. You can run the Colorado River there (for now) and there is seemingly unlimited outdoor activities in and around Moab. It deserves to be on the list. But the only one in Utah? Hardly.

In going through the Far And Wide list, I noticed that several of the towns that made the cut had a certain acceptance of what might be considered more progressive policies and out reach. That's all fine, but I don't believe a small town is good based on its political bent. And if that's the case, they left off some real gems in Utah. The list only included commuities under the population of 10,000, but if politics played a part (which it shouldn't), how could they ignore Park City and Sprindale?

But it's not the politics that make small towns great. John Cougar Mellencamp had a song out talking about the benefits of a “Small town.”

Living in a small town offers a unique array of benefits that contribute to a fulfilling lifestyle. Firstly, small towns typically foster tight-knit communities where people know each other by name. This sense of familiarity creates a strong support system, promoting neighborly bonds and a feeling of belonging. In such communities, individuals often experience a heightened sense of safety and security, as residents tend to look out for one another.

Moreover, small towns often boast a slower pace of life compared to bustling cities. This slower pace allows for a more relaxed lifestyle, free from the frenetic hustle and bustle of urban centers. Residents can enjoy simpler pleasures, such as leisurely strolls through charming streets or peaceful picnics in local parks, without the stress of overcrowding or traffic congestion.

Additionally, small towns often offer a closer connection to nature. With ample green spaces, scenic landscapes, and outdoor recreational opportunities, residents can easily embrace an active and healthy lifestyle. Whether it's hiking in nearby trails, fishing in local rivers, or simply enjoying the beauty of the countryside, small towns provide abundant opportunities to commune with nature.

And on that basis, I believe Utah has a lot more to offer than just one location. So, since Far And Wide isn't the only one that can put out a list, keep scrolling to see seven Utah towns that I think are worth the visit. And there's a lot more than I have on the list. There are wonderful place in the Uinta basin, and great small communities up in Cache Valley. Enjoy!