According to its mission statement, the MPNHA "preserves, interprets, promotes, and enhances Utah's pioneer heritage…working to increase tourism, encourage economic development, revitalize communities, provide heritage educational opportunities, and improve the quality of life" within its districts.

The MPNHA was established by legislation introduced by former Utah Senator Bob Bennett, which, as he said at the time, intended to preserve "the rich heritage and tremendous achievements of the Mormon Pioneers."

(Insert link) His bill was passed by Congress in July 2006 and signed into law by President George W. Bush in October of the same year.

The MPNHA works with the travel councils to realize its goal to preserve the history of both the early Mormon Pioneers as well as other groups who settled central and southern Utah, including the Native Americans, namely the Piute and Ute tribes, highlighting the diversity of the area.

The Headwaters, encompassing Garfield, Piute and Wayne Counties provide ample opportunities for fishing and historical exploration, being the childhood home of famed outlaw Butch Cassidy.