A history of Morgan County ([Utah Centennial County history series])

Morgan County in northern Utah contains 610 square miles, more than 90 percent of which is privately owned. Situated within the
Wasatch Mountains, its boundaries defined by mountain ridges, Morgan County has been celebrated for its alpine setting. Weber Canyon and the Weber River traverse the fertile Morgan Valley; and it was the lush vegetation of the pristine valley that prompted the first white settlers in 1855 to carve a road to it
through Devils Gate in lower Weber Canyon.\nMorgan has a rich historical legacy. It has served as a corridor in the West, used by both Native Americans and early trappers. Indian tribes often camped in the valley, even long after it was settled by Mormon pioneers. The southern part of the county was part of the famed Hastings Cutoff, made notorious by the Donner party but also used by Mormon pioneers, Johnston's Army, California gold seekers, and other early travelers. Morgan is
still part of main routes of traffic, including the railroad and utility lines that provide service throughout the West.\nLong known as an agricultural county, the area now also serves residents who commute to employment in Wasatch Front cities. Two
state parks-Lost Creek Reservoir and East Canyon Reservoir-provide recreation to thousands each year.