Exploring Soldier Summit, Utah: History, Ghost Towns, and Off-Grid Adventures
Tucked away in the Wasatch Mountains, Soldier Summit is more than just a geographic marker; it’s a convergence of rugged nature, forgotten history, and modern off-grid escapism. Whether you’re a railfan chasing the Gilluly loops, a history buff exploring the remnants of a railroad town, or a traveler seeking a primitive retreat, this high mountain pass offers a stark departure from the bustle of the Wasatch Front.
The Geography of the Pass
Soldier Summit serves as a critical transportation artery between the Wasatch Front and Price, Utah. Located in the extreme southwest corner of Wasatch County, the pass sits at an elevation of approximately 7,477 feet. It is traversed by U.S. Route 6, a fully paved road that spans roughly 42.8 miles from the ghost town of Thistle in Utah County to Castle Gate in Carbon County.
Although the road is generally flat with maximum gradients around 5%, it remains subject to winter weather closures. For those traveling by rail, the summit is a highlight on the Provo Subdivision of the Central Corridor, formerly the main line of the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad (D&RGW).
A Legacy of Hardship and Industry
The summit’s name is rooted in a tragic military encounter. The pass was named after a group of soldiers commanded by General Philip St. George Cooke. In July 1861, while traveling to join the Confederate Army, these soldiers were caught in an unexpected snowstorm; some perished and were buried on the summit.
Later, the area evolved into a hub for transportation and railroad operations. Founded in 1919 by H.C. Mears, the community of Soldier Summit once thrived as a support center for the highway department and the railroad. However, the town’s population saw a steady decline throughout the 20th century:
- 1920: 270 residents
- 1940: 97 residents
- 1960: 33 residents
- 1980: 12 residents
Today, the town is considered a near-ghost town. Aside from a gas station that opens occasionally, most of the site is abandoned, leaving behind only foundations and a haunting atmosphere for visitors.
The Off-Grid Yurt Experience
For those looking to escape civilization entirely, the area offers a primitive “yurting” experience. Unlike glamping, this off-grid stay is designed for those comfortable with physical exertion and the elements. Located at an elevation of 8,300 feet on private property, the Soldier Summit Yurt provides a stark contrast to traditional lodging.
What to expect from the yurt stay:
- Accommodations: Two large bunk beds capable of sleeping up to eight people.
- Utilities: Completely off-grid. Lighting is provided by batteries, and guests must haul their own water supplies.
- Heating: A wood-burning stove serves as the sole heat source, requiring guests to build their own warmth to combat plummeting temperatures.
- Environment: The surrounding area is quiet and secluded, featuring game trails for deer and occasional visits from moose and elk during high-snow years.
Key Takeaways for Visitors
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Route | U.S. Route 6 |
| Key Attractions | Gilluly loops, ghost town foundations, off-grid yurt |
| Elevation | ~7,477 ft (Pass) / 8,300 ft (Yurt area) |
| Historical Note | Named for General Philip St. George Cooke’s soldiers (1861) |
Summary
Soldier Summit remains a place of contradictions—a vital transit point that houses a dying town, and a harsh mountain environment that provides a peaceful sanctuary for the brave. Whether you are visiting for the historical weight of the 1861 snowstorm or the silence of an off-grid yurt, it’s a destination that demands respect for the elements and an appreciation for Utah’s rugged frontier history.
Worth a look