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- About Factory Butte - |
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If you are looking for a unique and adventurous
destination in Utah, you might want to check out
Factory Butte. This impressive sandstone peak
towers above a landscape that resembles a mix of
Mordor and the Moon. It is part of the Factory
Butte Recreation Area, managed by the Bureau of
Land Management (BLM), which offers
opportunities for off-highway vehicle (OHV)
riding, hiking, camping, photography, and
wildlife viewing. |
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Factory Butte is located 12 miles west of
Hanksville, Utah on State Route 24. It is one of
the small, flat-topped mesas called the Upper
Blue Hills that rise from the mancos-shale
badlands of Caineville. The butte reaches an
elevation of 6,302 feet and has a distinctive
shape that resembles a factory chimney. The name
was given by early explorers who thought it
looked like a sugar factory. |
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The area around Factory Butte is rich in
geological and biological diversity. The
badlands are composed of clay-rich soil that
erodes easily and forms colorful ridges, domes,
and canyons. The soil also supports rare and
endangered plants such as the Wright fishhook
cactus and the Barneby reed-mustard. The BLM has
designated two areas for OHV use to protect
these plants and their habitat: Swing Arm City
and North Caineville Mesa. These areas provide
OHV users with an unparalleled riding experience
on the lunar-like terrain. |
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Factory Butte is also a popular site for
photographers and nature lovers, especially in
the spring when the desert blooms with
wildflowers. The contrast between the green
fields and the red rocks creates a stunning
scenery that attracts visitors from far and
wide. The butte itself offers a dramatic
backdrop for any picture, especially at sunrise
or sunset when the light enhances its features. |
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If you want to spend more time exploring Factory
Butte and its surroundings, you can camp at one
of the dispersed sites along Coal Mine Road,
which circles around the butte. There is no fee
or reservation required, but there are also no
facilities or services available. You will need
to bring your own water and pack out your trash.
You will also need to respect the wildlife and
the vegetation, and follow the BLM regulations
for camping and OHV use. |
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Factory Butte is a hidden gem in Utah that
offers something for everyone. Whether you are
looking for a thrill ride, a peaceful hike, or a
scenic view, you will find it here. Just make
sure to plan ahead, be prepared, and leave no
trace. |
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