Summit County

Summit County is an administrative area in northeastern Utah that stretches from the Uinta Mountains to the Wasatch Mountains, covering several small settlements along with expansive forest and rangeland. The highest parts reach over 8388 feet (2560 meters) above sea level and offer wide views across valleys, ridges and open grazing land.

The administrative unit came into existence in 1854 by decision of the Utah Territory legislature and initially included lands that later became part of Wyoming. The present boundary was finalized in 1918 after several adjustments were made.

The area sits at the boundary between the Great Basin and the Rocky Mountains, and has been used for generations by people living and working in high country. The open valleys and forested slopes now draw visitors interested in winter sports, hiking and mountain living.

Interstate 80 and U.S. Route 40 cross the area and connect the small towns with surrounding regions. Travelers find services in the settlements along these highways, though distances can be considerable.

The area contains 39 of the highest mountain peaks in Utah, which gave the administrative unit its name. Many of these summits remain difficult to reach even in summer for hikers and climbers.

Location: Utah

Inception: 1854

Capital city: Coalville

Shares border with: Rich County, Morgan County, Salt Lake County, Wasatch County, Duchesne County, Daggett County, Sweetwater County, Uinta County

Website: http://co.summit.ut.us

GPS coordinates: 40.88000,-110.97000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:31