Discovering the Draper Utah Temple: A Testament of Faith and Beauty
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Draper, Utah, the Draper Utah Temple stands as a remarkable expression of architectural finesse and religious devotion. Located at 14065 Canyon Vista Ln, Draper, Utah 84020, this Temple has been a source of inspiration and peace since its announcement on October 2, 2004.
The journey towards the completion of the Draper Utah Temple began with a significant milestone—the Groundbreaking and Site Dedication on August 5, 2006. Guided by the words of Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley, who said, “It is a great tribute to our people. They are so faithful in temple attendance and it is for this reason that we construct this beautiful house of the Lord,” this event marked the start of a new chapter for the area.
The Temple opened its doors for a Public Open House from January 15th to March 14, 2009, attracting an impressive 684,721 guests eager to experience its beauty firsthand. Its dedication was conducted from March 20th through 22nd, 2009, by the Prophet Thomas S. Monson, further solidifying its importance in the hearts of many.
Crowning the Temple is the stunning gold leafed Angel Moroni, which was installed on July 8, 2008, symbolizing hope and faith. This Temple is elegantly designed with a theme that reflects Utah’s state flower—the sego lily—embracing the local culture and heritage.
Spanning 12 acres, the Draper Utah Temple features an impressive 58,300 square feet of meticulously designed space. Its exterior is adorned with shining white granite from China, complemented by exquisite limestone from France, blending beautifully into the surrounding environment.
Architecturally, the Draper Utah Temple boasts a single attached central spire that supports the iconic statue of the Angel Moroni. Inside, visitors will find four instruction rooms, five sealing rooms, and one baptistry, all thoughtfully constructed to provide an enriching experience. The largest sealing room can accommodate 80 patrons, while the baptistry, located on the downhill western side, benefits from natural light due to its floor-to-ceiling windows.
The panoramic views within the ordinance rooms feature stunning hand-painted mountain scenes, including a depiction of Draper’s Corner Canyon and its vistas of the Salt Lake Valley. Additionally, the building embraces elements of craftsmanship with 221 exterior windows, 50 interior windows, and an impressive 432 door panels, showcasing a total of 35,420 hand-cut pieces of glass that reflect the Log Cabin quilt pattern historically cherished by early pioneers.
Incorporating a unique wood species known as Makore wood from Africa, the interior of the Draper Utah Temple is both warm and inviting. The carefully crafted spaces and striking features come together to create a harmonious atmosphere, echoing the values and beliefs held dear by many.
For those needing a space to park, the Temple has a parking lot accommodating 492 vehicles, ensuring ease of access for all. Perched at an elevation of 5,136 feet and reaching a height of 166 feet, its presence is not just felt but also seen, standing as a testament to the dedication and faith of its creators.
As the twelfth Temple constructed in Utah and the third within the Salt Lake Valley, the Draper Utah Temple continues to resonate with all who encounter its beauty, enriching their lives and affirming their commitments.