This Is The Place Monument

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Description

The This Is The Place Monument stands proudly at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, overlooking Salt Lake City with a quiet majesty that feels almost timeless. Built in 1947 by sculptor Mahonri M. Young—Brigham Young’s grandson—it honors the explorers, pioneers, and settlers who shaped Utah’s history. The monument marks the spot where Brigham Young, upon arriving with the first group of Mormon pioneers in 1847, reportedly declared, “This is the right place.” Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or just someone who loves a good view, this monument has a way of pulling you in.

I remember my first visit vividly—it was early morning, the air crisp, and the bronze figures glowed in the soft sunlight. There’s something grounding about standing where history quite literally changed direction. You can almost hear the echoes of wagon wheels and the murmurs of weary travelers finally finding rest. It’s not just a monument; it’s a story carved in stone and metal, one that invites reflection on courage, faith, and perseverance.

The site doesn’t just celebrate Mormon pioneers. It also honors Native Americans, Spanish explorers, and early American frontiersmen who passed through or settled in the region long before the wagons rolled in. This inclusivity makes it more than a religious or local landmark—it’s a tribute to the collective human spirit that built the American West. And honestly, that’s what makes it so special. You can feel that layered history as you walk around the monument’s base, admiring the intricate bas-reliefs and lifelike sculptures that tell Utah’s story in bronze.

Key Features

• 60-foot-tall Monument: The central structure towers above the landscape, topped by bronze figures of Brigham Young and other early leaders.
• Detailed Bas-Reliefs: Panels around the base depict Native Americans, Spanish explorers, trappers, and pioneers, each crafted with remarkable attention to detail.
• Panoramic Views: From its vantage point, visitors can take in sweeping views of Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains—perfect for photos or quiet contemplation.
• Heritage Park Connection: The monument sits adjacent to This Is The Place Heritage Park, a living history village that brings pioneer life to life with costumed interpreters, old-fashioned shops, and family activities.
• Accessibility: The site offers wheelchair-accessible paths and parking, making it easy for everyone to explore.
• Peaceful Ambiance: Despite its popularity, the area often feels calm and reflective, especially in the early morning or near sunset.

What I love most is how the monument blends art and storytelling. You can spend ten minutes or two hours here and still find new details—the expression on a statue’s face, the texture of a horse’s mane, or the way the light hits the bronze in late afternoon. It’s one of those places that rewards patience and curiosity.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re planning a trip, spring and fall are the sweet spots. The weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the crowds are manageable. Summer can get pretty warm—Utah sun doesn’t play around—but the mornings and evenings are still lovely. Winter has its own charm too. The monument dusted with snow looks almost ethereal, though you’ll want to bundle up.

Personally, I think sunrise or sunset visits are unbeatable. The golden light casts long shadows across the statues, and the view of the valley below feels almost cinematic. Bring a camera, or just take a mental snapshot—it’s one of those moments that sticks with you. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a quiet moment when the world feels still, and you can almost imagine what it was like for those first pioneers to finally say, “We’re home.”

How to Get There

Reaching the monument is straightforward. It’s located on the east side of Salt Lake City, at the base of the mountains, near the entrance to Emigration Canyon. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s just a short drive—maybe fifteen minutes depending on traffic. Public transportation options are limited, so driving or ridesharing is your best bet. The route winds gently upward, offering glimpses of the city below, and before long, the monument’s towering silhouette comes into view.

There’s on-site parking available, and it’s free, which is always a nice bonus. The parking lot is spacious and includes accessible spots close to the monument. Once you park, it’s just a short walk to the main viewing area. The site is also connected to walking paths that lead into the adjacent Heritage Park, so if you’ve got extra time, you can easily make a half-day adventure out of your visit.

Tips for Visiting

Here are a few things I’ve learned from my own trips and from chatting with other travelers along the way:

• Go Early or Late: The light is better for photos, and the atmosphere is calmer. Plus, parking is easier to find.
• Bring Water: Even though it’s not a long walk, Utah’s dry air can sneak up on you.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The paths are paved but slightly uneven in spots, especially near the base of the monument.
• Combine Your Visit: Spend some time exploring the Heritage Park next door—it’s a fun and educational experience for all ages.
• Check for Events: The park occasionally hosts cultural festivals, reenactments, and family days that add a lively touch to your visit.
• Take a Moment to Reflect: It’s easy to rush through, but standing there quietly—even for a minute—really brings home the monument’s meaning.

And here’s a small personal tip: if you’re into photography, bring a wide-angle lens. The monument’s scale is impressive, and capturing both the statues and the surrounding landscape in one shot can be tricky otherwise. I learned that the hard way on my first visit—ended up with a dozen photos of bronze elbows and half a mountain.

The monument is also a great spot for families. Kids tend to love the sheer size of the statues and the open space to roam around. There’s plenty of room for a picnic or just to sit and enjoy the view. And for anyone traveling with accessibility needs, the site is well-designed, with smooth paths and ramps that make it easy to get close to the monument itself.

What makes This Is The Place Monument stand out isn’t just its historical significance—it’s the emotional weight it carries. You don’t have to be a historian or a local to appreciate it. It’s about arrival, hope, and the human drive to keep moving forward even when the journey feels endless. Maybe that’s why so many visitors leave feeling inspired. It’s not just about where the pioneers stopped—it’s about what it means to find your own “place” in the world.

So if you’re in Salt Lake City and looking for a spot that’s scenic, meaningful, and quietly powerful, make your way up to This Is The Place Monument. Take your time, breathe the mountain air, and let the stories of the past remind you how far we’ve all come. It’s one of those places that doesn’t just show you history—it makes you feel it.

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