Bear Claw Valley is Located 120 miles South and East of Salt Lake City, Utah. It is 8,500 feet above sea level in beautiful mountain surroundings. It is 4 ½ miles East off of U.S. Highway 191 down Argyle Canyon. (Which is halfway between Duchesne and Price, Utah, at the top of summit on a dirt road.)
Bear Claw Valley is the home of David and Donna Nielsen. They moved there December 28th, 1979 and proceeded to make it a place of fun and beauty for the use of their ten children and their many wonderful grandchildren. They have built a large outdoor kitchen, fire-pit, stage for skits, carnival area, and even bulldozed an area big enough to play ball. Also, they have many groomed and non-groomed trails to hike and explore. A recently added feature is the "Tell Me Why" trail, where participants are able to take a thought-provoking trek designed to develop appreciation for all we have. There are nearly 40 acres to enjoy.
Part of the experience of Bear Claw Valley is enjoying nature without conveniences of the hurried city life. There are no phones, electricity, running water or indoor plumbing. It is also nearly 5 miles off the paved highway on a mountain dirt road. As much as David has tried, he still has no control over the weather and the road can be a little tricky when it's wet. It is best to cook together as a group. More information can be furnished to help make this easy and fun. You will not need to bring any cooking equipment, this is included with the use of the facilities. The shower is very primitive. There is plenty of room for tents, campers, motor homes and small trailers.
As Bear Claw Valley grew and people visited, people began to see its appeal as a haven for church programs, youth groups and family reunions. David & Donna have hesitated to allow others to used it because it is impossible to obtain insurance. But, guests have been willing to accept all the responsibility for their safety by personally inspecting equipment and activities before they or their children are allowed to participate and by signing a release form to this fact. As a result, other groups have been allowed to use the facilities. BEAR CLAW VALLEY IS NOT A COMMERCIAL RESORT IN ANY WAY, IT IS OUR HOME. Many generous people have donated material, labor, money and continue to voluntarily contribute to the building up and maintaining of Bear Claw Valley. These donations are used to maintain and improve Bear Claw Valley. David and Donna give of their time freely to help where they can. Reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis.