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The popularity of all-terrain vehicle riding over the past 15 or 20 years has led to the development of major trail systems in Utah.

And one of those, the Arapeen OHV trail in central Utah, is getting a financial boost.

The National Park Foundation has received a Polaris Foundation grant to enhance the Arapeen Trail as part of money being spent on the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage area.

"The Arapeen OHV Trail System is one of Utah's great high-mountain trails," said Kevin Christensen, Sanpete County economic development director. "It is open to side-by-sides, ATVs, 4x4 vehicles and motorcycles. The best time to ride is July through September."

The grant will include the addition of a 2-inch minus road base to the upper 6.7 miles of road in Manti Canyon from the intersection of North Fork to the Skyline Drive.

According to Sanpete County, the number of OHVs registered in Utah has nearly tripled since 1988, especially in popular riding areas such Arapeen or the Piute ATV Trail.

Other Arapeen projects completed or under way include work on trails in Mt. Pleasant Canyon, Ephraim New Canyon, Sterling 6-Mile Canyon, and Manti Canyon. The trail system is also investing in new facilities, including a trailside restroom.