An outgrowth of Springville, Mapleton has been a rural community from its beginnings. The first permanent settlers came to Mapleton around 1870. Though originally founded in 1900 as “Union Bench,” the name was changed a year later to “Mapleton” to pay homage to the many groves of maple trees. In its early days, Mapleton was mainly a farming and orchard community. The first settlers used the area for livestock grazing, farming and logging. Many early settlers planted cherry orchards on the area's north bench. While some of the city's farmland and many of its orchards have been converted into residential subdivisions, the city still maintains a strong rural ambiance.

Maple Canyon and Hobble Creek Canyon offer scenic drives. The majestic mountain that serves as the city's east backdrop is known throughout Utah County as Mapleton Mountain. However, some Mapleton residents call it Sierra Bonita, as named by a group of Ute Indians. The name means beautiful mountain, and geography experts say it is one of the best shaped in the country. The City Zoning Commission has maintained the city’s rural appeal by implementing strict zoning controls. The city has also tried to maintain the virtue of the mountain views and to protect the mountainside from development. Mapleton also continues to be a lucrative community, real-estate wise. Homes in Mapleton had the highest value/price increase of any homes in Utah Valley for last quarter of 2005.

Mapleton is about one hour south of Salt Lake and ten minutes south of Provo on I-15. Nestled between Springville and Spanish Fork, Mapleton is at the center of Utah Valley. It’s only a short drive to UVSC, BYU, Provo Towne Center Mall, Mapleton Elementary School, Springville High, Hobble Creek Golf Course, and the LDS Provo Temple.