Enterprise Mountains
Washington County, Utah
Southern Utah is in a world of hurt for water. Cattle are starving, farmers are worried, and firefighters are preparing for a hot fire season. The area around Enterprise Reservoir in Washington County is an eye-opener for how serious our water conditions really are. In the photo to the side, note the water level behind the dam--and this photo was taken in late May when water levels are typically at their peak!
Enterprise Reservoirs are located at the base of a series of oddly beautiful mountains. Many fisherman have traditionally fished here for bass and some trout. There are several good camp sites around the reservoirs.
The map indicates that the Bull Valley Mountains merge into the range adjacent to the reservoirs. There are several ATV and jeep trails originating at the reservoirs and heading south into these hills. The roads are a lot of winding and up and down, with plenty of spectacular views and some pristine country to behold. Even in drought conditions, the mountains seemed quite green and verdant, but many dry stream beds told of perils to come.
Road Conditions are rough and water is scarce. A mine known as the GoldStrike Mine is located in or near Butcher Knife Canyon.
The site seems to be a paradise for the ATV enthusiast. The trails are wonderful and scenery is hard to beat. It's an unusual transition zone between two geophysical regions of the West--the Great Basin and the Mojave Desert. Hence, the country side is typical of neither, but a jumble of landforms and ecological diversity that is not seen very often. If you plan to visit during the dry season, don't plan for a campfire. The place is a tinderbox that would be a very difficult fight in the event of a fire.
37.537° -113.714° @ 5500'
