Dr. Tim Riley keeps busy at his job, working for the USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum. However, when he was asked to present a segment for Ask the Expert in Helper, he was willing and ready.
Riley’s presentation was titled 50 Mile Radius of Recreation and was a guide to outdoor recreation in the areas surrounding Helper for 50 miles. He stated that his purpose for the evening was to give the resources moving forward for citizens to recreate.
When one thinks about recreation in Utah, it’s almost certain that their mind will wander down to Moab for the Jeep Safari or over to Lake Powell on a houseboat. However, Utah has that and more to offer within 50 miles of Helper City. Riley covered recreation in parts of the Wasatch Mountains, the Uintah Basin and more.
Touching briefly on The Wedge overlook in the San Rafael Swell and bouldering in Joe’s Valley, Riley brought to light all that the area has to offer in terms of getting out and exploring. That was not the entire purpose of the presentation, however. Riley also took time to touch on the safety and responsibility of recreation.
In this day and age, there isn’t much of an excuse not to learn the do’s and don’ts of outdoor fun. The internet has a plethora of information and there are ways to check out applicable laws. The non-profit organization Tread Lightly has guidelines available for perusal. Castle Country‘s website also has an explore tab that takes you through Nine Mile Canyon, Range Creek and more.
Riley also pointed out that lands are managed by the federal government on behalf of citizens such as the BLM, USFS and more. Some state lands are public such as some managed by the DNR, DWR and the State parks. However, most are not.
Utah and Castle Country have much to enjoy and explore. Many areas are available to get out and experience. Safety and caution are always advised.
