Cove Fort Historic Site

Cove Fort is a historical refuge that is a home of safety, sacred service, sacrifice, love, and protection. The fort was in use from 1867-1890. It is now a museum with a rich history and legacy to remember sacrifice, hard work, and dedication.

Cove Fort is known as a safe and sacred home. It is now a historic site with an impressive story to tell. The Hinckley Family was called there by Brigham Young, who was the president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at the time. The Hinckley's were called to create a fort that would help support weary travelers going from the north of Utah to the southern portion of the state. It was a refuge, and it provided protection from the weather, telegraph lines, and from the Native Americans. The Hinckley family welcomed everyone with open arms, even if the traveler had nothing to give in return. The fort teaches us of the faith, dedication, and pioneer resourcefulness that was needed to survive in this time. At the end of its days, the fort was no longer needed due to the railroad that was built, and the development of advanced communication. Today the fort serves as a historical site with a legendary story to be told.

This historic fort is open daily from 9 am until dusk, and it welcomes visitors all year round. It is easily accessible of the I-15 freeway, just 30 miles south of Filmore, Utah. The fort offers free admission, and volunteers provide guided tours of the fort, the barn, the blacksmith shop, the corral, and the bunkhouse. The site also features the Hinckley home, where visitors can watch a film about the story and legacy of this great fort. Most of the fort can be accessed by wheelchair, as well. Cove Fort also hosts Cove Fort Days, which usually takes place during the first week of August and is a celebration of this heritage. There is soap making, hair art, wagon rides, storytelling, and activities that are accessible to everyone during Cove Fort Days. The fort offers picnic areas, clean restrooms, and a great rest stop for travelers.