All About Cottonwood Heights

While Cottonwood Heights was only incorporated as a town in 2005, its history goes back much farther, back to when eight families settled the area in 1849. One of the settlers, Jehu Cox, donated some of his farmland as the site of a fort. Within five years, the population grew to 273 and included 23 homes inside the fort.

Back then, the area was called Union, and it encompassed parts of modern Cottonwood Heights, Midvale, Sandy, and more. Between 1848 and 1872, other local settlements included Butler Bench, Poverty Flats, and Danish town. Industry included sand and gravel pits, mining, poultry, fur, fruit, agricultural farming, and the Deseret News’ Cottonwood Paper Mill.

The Cottonwood Heights area began to shift focus away from agriculture after World War II, answering the suburban housing demand with several new subdivisions. In 2005, the town successfully petitioned for incorporation and became its own city. It is home to over 34,000 people today and has made Money Magazine’s list of 100 Best Places to Live for small cities.

Avista Spring Gardens and Cottonwood Heights

Cottonwood Heights is a great community and very convenient to Avista Spring Gardens in Holladay, where we offer our senior residents the conveniences of independent living, memory care, or assisted living depending on their needs. Follow any of those links to learn more about our amenities and services at these different levels of care. You can take our virtual visit or make an appointment to stop by for one in person!

See What Cottonwood Heights Has to Offer

One of the biggest local events that makes Cottonwood Heights a great place to live or visit is Butlerville Days, held every year in July, with over 18,000 participants since 2014. It’s a fun, affordable event to bring the whole family to, from Grandma and Grandpa to the youngest kids! Items on the Butlerville Days event schedule include chalk art contests, picnics in the park with food vendors, creative craft booths, a rodeo, a parade, old-fashioned games, a fireworks show, and more! We know we’re going to have a blast at the next Butlerville Days!

What if it isn’t July? Cottonwood Heights still has plenty to enjoy for the rest of the year. You could bring your family to the Wheeler Historic Farm, enjoy a beautiful hike up Bell Canyon or a thrilling raft adventure with Western River Expeditions. One of the best local eateries is the Cottonwood Heights Cafe, a great little diner with an all-day breakfast menu. If you’re in the mood for something more exotic, we recommend Sumac for some delicious Persian cuisine.