The Small Town in Utah That’s Straight Out of ‘Gilmore Girls’

I love the fall in Utah. It is easily my favorite time of the year. Places like American Fork Canyon and Logan Canyon are breathtaking when covered with fall foliage, and there’s something absolutely magical in national parks like Zion or Capitol Reef when autumn’s palette transforms the scenery. However, spending time outdoors in Utah's colorful landscape isn’t the only thing I love to do this time of the year. Autumn is also when I love to snuggle in my favorite blanket and watch one of the most charming shows on TV—"Gilmore Girls."

This fast-talking, popular show is known for its cozy, fall vibes. It’s setting—Stars Hollow—is a place where most viewers can picture themselves living, walking down the streets, enjoying a hot beverage, and participating in the tight-knit community. While Stars Hollow may not exist in real life, there is a town in Utah I feel is a hidden gem and one that exudes autumn vibes—Mount Pleasant. This small town in central Utah is underrated, historic, and boasts many of the same qualities that make Stars Hollow so well loved. Mount Pleasant is a town straight out of “Gilmore Girls.”

Like many Utah towns, Mount Pleasant was officially settled by pioneers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1852. However, due to several challenges, it wasn't until the 1890s that the railroad arrived in the area, and Mount Pleasant began to thrive.

Throughout the years, this town in Sanpete County has played an important role in many of Utah’s stories. For example, in the 1870s, the peace treaty for the Black Hawk War was signed in Mount Pleasant. It is also home to the Wasatch Academy, the oldest private boarding school in Utah, which was established in 1875.

Today, when you visit, you will see evidence of this town’s history. Many of the buildings that line the main streets are from the 19th century and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings are now home to many locally-owned shops and restaurants, where you can step inside and visit with friends and neighbors. Just like in Stars Hollow, Mount Pleasant is walkable, friendly, and the setting of countless scenes and stories.

Mount Pleasant is a delight any time of the year, but in the fall, it's particularly charming and stuns with its natural beauty. If you are up for a unique adventure, hop in your high-clearance vehicle and tackle the gorgeous Skyline Drive, a dirt road that takes you along the Wasatch Plateau. This scenic route is approximately 100 miles and one of the highest roads in Utah. It’s also a gorgeous place to view fall foliage and is a quiet drive, which is certainly welcomed after driving many highways around the Beehive State. But, you’ll also want to come prepared as services won’t be as easy to access.

If you are up for a heart-racing adventure, you can also view splendid fall colors on the Sanpete County Mountain Bike Trails, with options for every skill level. If you'd prefer to explore on foot, admire autumn's vibrant hues while tackling one of the area's beautiful hiking trails. The Maple Canyon Left Fork Trail is rated moderately challenging and under three miles, but you’ll feel like you are walking through a colorful painting if you time your visit just right. You’ll walk away experiencing true autumnal spirit after this hike.

Of course, there will be days when the weather doesn’t want to cooperate, and fortunately, there is still plenty to do and see in Mount Pleasant. While you’ll want to explore the walkable downtown area (just like Stars Hollow), there are places like the Mount Pleasant Pioneer Museum for your bucket list. You may even want to make the drive to Manti and Ephraim for even more Utah history.

Mount Pleasant may not be the top of your fall bucket list, but if you love history, community, natural beauty, and picturesque autumn adventures, you’ll find so much to love here—just like you will find in Stars Hollow.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.