Utah is notorious for its towns with names that are baffling, unpronounceable, or just plain odd. These names can leave both visitors and navigation systems scratching their heads. Here are ten Utah town names that might have you questioning reality—and your GPS.
1. Tooele
Pronounced “too-WIL-a,” this town’s spelling has confounded newscasters and travelers for generations. The origin is debated—some say it’s from a Goshute word for “bear,” others think it’s named after a local weed. Either way, your GPS might never say it right.
2. Duchesne
Looks like “du-CHES-ne,” but locals say “doo-SHANE.” The town was named after the river, which itself may honor Mother Teresa Duchesne or come from a Ute word meaning “dark canyon.” Either way, it’s a pronunciation trap.
3. La Verkin
No one knows for sure where this name came from—some say it’s a corruption of “La Virgen,” others think it’s a Native American word for “beautiful valley.” The spelling and sound are equally mysterious.
4. Kanarraville
Despite the birdlike sound, it’s named for Chief Canarrah of the Piute tribe. The spelling has evolved, but the confusion remains. Don’t let your GPS convince you it’s a typo.
5. Escalante
Named for a Spanish missionary, but locals can’t agree on whether it’s “ess-kuh-LANT” or “ess-kuh-LANT-ee.” Even Utahns debate the right way to say it.
6. Elmo
No, not the Sesame Street character. This agricultural community’s name is actually an acronym from the first settlers’ last names, but your GPS might still expect a fuzzy red monster.
7. Eggnog
Yes, there’s a place called Eggnog in Utah. The name is as literal as it sounds and might make you question whether your GPS is playing a holiday prank.
8. Oquirrh
Pronounced “o-quir,” this name stumps almost everyone seeing it for the first time. It’s derived from a Goshute word and refers to the nearby mountains, but don’t expect your navigation app to get it right.
9. Koosharem
A tiny town whose name comes from a Piute word for a local clover. The spelling and pronunciation (“koo-SHAR-em”) will likely trip up even the most advanced voice assistants.
10. Mexican Hat
Named after a sombrero-shaped rock formation, this town’s name is literal but still sounds like a GPS glitch or a joke entry. It’s real, and it’s right on the map.
Sources:
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2021-04-30-here-are-5-weird-utah-town-names-you-probably-cant-pronounce/
- https://sportsradio977.com/there-is-no-other-town-on-earth-with-this-utah-towns-name/
- https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/utah/strange-town-names-ut