Groundbreaking announced for The Canyons at Ephraim Crossing
81-unit townhome community aims to meet Central Utah’s growing housing needs
EPHRAIM — A major new housing development is underway in Ephraim, as Desert Blossom Homes announced the groundbreaking of The Canyons at Ephraim Crossing, an 81-unit townhome community designed to provide high-quality, attainable housing for Central Utah’s rapidly growing population.
Located in Ephraim Crossing, a 300-acre master-planned development on the city’s south side, The Canyons will feature thoughtfully designed 1,670-square-foot townhomes with prices starting in the high $300,000s. The developer also anticipates potential incentive programs — through the city, lenders, or Desert Blossom Homes — that could reduce costs by as much as $15,000 for qualified buyers.
Construction has begun on Phase 1, which includes 19 townhomes along the west side of the new 60 West, now under construction.
Honoring Ephraim’s heritage
Desert Blossom Homes CEO Kristen Mortensen, who has built nearly 1,000 homes over the past 40 years, said the project is deeply rooted in local heritage and designed with families in mind.
“Our goal is to honor Ephraim’s history while making homeownership possible for today’s families,” Mortensen said. “By blending affordability with thoughtful design and Scandinavian Modern architecture, we’re creating homes that are both beautiful and functional — places where families can thrive for generations.”
The Canyons’ design draws inspiration from Ephraim’s Scandinavian pioneer heritage, blending traditional simplicity with modern comfort. Each home features large windows for natural light, natural materials, and distinctive color accents to give every unit a unique personality.
Each townhome includes three bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an open loft that can flex into a guest room or office space. Other standout features include:
- Two-car garage large enough to fit a full-size Ford F-150 pickup.
- Open-concept great room connecting the kitchen, dining, and living areas.
- Well-appointed kitchens with oversized islands and “working pantries” designed to keep countertops clutter-free.
- Extra storage space upstairs for seasonal items.
- Optional basements for added living area in select units.
A community on the rise
The new development comes amid a wave of economic and population growth in Ephraim and throughout Sanpete County.
Recent projects include:
- Intermountain Health, which has purchased 39 acres in Ephraim Crossing for a future hospital and medical campus, projected to create 200-300 jobs.
- SoapCreek, a skin and hair care manufacturer, is building a 100,000-square-foot facility expected to employ more than 150 people.
- Snow College continues to expand, bringing in students, faculty, and staff who contribute to the local housing demand.
- A new temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is under construction, signaling continued growth and in-migration to the area.
“Central Utah is seeing transformational growth, and Ephraim Crossing is at the heart of it,” said Mike Ballard, partner at Ephraim Crossing. “The Canyons will bring thoughtfully designed homes within walking distance of retail, restaurants, healthcare, education, and recreation — helping families achieve homeownership while strengthening the community.”
When fully built out, Ephraim Crossing will include walkable neighborhoods with retail, dining, healthcare, education, and recreation options, ultimately serving more than 1,100 families in a connected, small-town environment.
About the developers
Desert Blossom Homes, headquartered in Sanpete County, has built nearly 1,000 homes across Central Utah. The company focuses on delivering high-value, energy-efficient housing that balances design, functionality, and affordability. Learn more at www.canyonstownhomes.com.
Ephraim Crossing is a 300-acre master-planned community envisioned as a vibrant hub for southern Sanpete County. The development will combine housing, retail, healthcare, education, and recreation in a walkable, family-centered setting. For details, visit www.ephraimcrossing.com.


