San Rafael Swell, Emery County, Utah - Travelers crossing Utah on Interstate 70 in Utah’s Emery County through the San Rafael Swell now have an opportunity to stop and learn more about the area and its attractions. A series of interpretive panels are now installed at each of the nine view area turnouts spaced on each side (east and west bound) of I-70 through the Swell.

There are three panels, each mounted on separate rock pedestals, at each view area. Each aluminum panel tells in words and photographs a part of the San Rafael story and gives information about visitor attractions in the area.

The new panels were dedicated at a ceremony October 28 at the Ghost Rock View Area on westbound I-70. Emery County officials, Utah Department of Transportation leaders and regional employees, and Utah Division of Travel Development staff were on hand for the dedication and lunch.

Former Emery County Commissioner Kent Petersen recited a couple of cowboy poems about the region, and Monte Swasey, grandson of famed cowboy Joe Sawsey, recalled a story of Joe trying to rope and tame a wild bobcat. The Sawseys lived and raised cattle in the San Rafael area for many years, and the old historic Swasey cabin is located near the Ghost Rock view area.

The interpretive panels will give added meaning and understanding to those who stop at the view areas as they look across the spectacular vistas of the San Rafael Swell. They also provide additional visitor information for those interested in staying in and exploring the Emery County area.

The panels were produced through the efforts of Emery County and the Utah Travel Council Heritage Tourism project with a combination of federal, state and local funds.

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