The area around the lake was settled in 1873. Farming and ranching  was the basis for the economy of the area. A dam was constructed on  Panguitch Lake to increase the lake’s ability to hold water and to  provide irrigation water. Dairy products (cheese & butter) and fish  were traded or sold in neighboring communities. As southern Utah grew in  the late 1800’s the Panguitch Lake area became a retreat for people  from throughout the region. Horse races, fishing, dancing and other  activities became commonplace at and around the lake. These traditions have continued and today you’ll find restaurants,  boat rentals, general stores, lodges and cabins for rent, ATV riding,  horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and much more. Summer is the  most active time of year around the lake, but ice fisherman and outdoor  enthusiasts (x-country skiing, snowmobiles) frequent the area through  the winter months. Panguitch Lake is surrounded by some of America’s most spectacular  scenic attractions. Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park,  Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Cedar Breaks National  Monument. Cedar City, St. George, Kanab, Panguitch, Beaver, Richfield  and other southern Utah towns and cities are in close proximity. From  Panguitch Lake you’re just 3 hours from the North Rim of the Grand  Canyon or from Lake Powell (Glen Canyon National Recreation Area).