The Upper Valley oil field in central Garfield County is a sizable oil-producing area. The county also has large coal fields as well as tar sands and uranium, but these energy-related resources have not been developed. Mining for other minerals has been very limited.

Politically, since statehood in 1896, Garfield has been second only to Kane County in its loyalty to Republican candidates.

The county has several outstanding natural landmarks, including Bryce Canyon National Park, the Escalante Mountains, Boulder Mountain, the Henry Mountains, and Escalante Canyon; in addition, there is the Colorado River and Lake Powell, which form the eastern boundary of the county. Notable historic sites include the commercial buildings, courthouse, bishop's storehouse, and Andrew Carnegie library in Panguitch; nineteenth-century brick residences in Panguitch and Escalante; the New Deal-era Bryce Canyon airport; lodge and cabins at Bryce Canyon; and the Anasazi State Park in Boulder. High schools are located in Panguitch, Tropic, and Escalante.

Miriam B. Murphy