Grafton Ghost Town Utah
A remarkably preserved ghost town offering a tangible glimpse into the lives of Mormon pioneers and a backdrop for classic Western films.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Grafton Ghost Town Utah
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkably preserved ghost town offering a tangible glimpse into the lives of Mormon pioneers and a backdrop for classic Western films.
"This is a must see! Amazing! One of my favorite stops on our vacation!"
🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road
The 3-mile dirt road can be rough. Go slow and be mindful of conditions, especially after rain.
💰 Donations Keep History Alive
This is a free, self-guided site. Your donations are vital for preservation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Pioneer Homes
Main settlement area
Explore the preserved homes of early Mormon settlers, offering a tangible glimpse into their challenging lives.
The Old Cemetery
Just up the road from the main town
A poignant reminder of the hardships faced, with headstones telling stories of early deaths and struggles.
Filming Location Fame
Various buildings, notably the main house and church
Recognize iconic structures that served as backdrops for the classic Western film 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Dirt Road Adventure
Embrace Self-Guided Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road
The 3-mile dirt road can be rough. Go slow and be mindful of conditions, especially after rain.
💰 Donations Keep History Alive
This is a free, self-guided site. Your donations are vital for preservation.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Spend at least an hour to explore the homes and cemetery; more if you love history.
💧 Check Weather Before Visiting
Recent rain can make the dirt road impassable. Plan accordingly to avoid getting stuck.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road
The 3-mile dirt road can be rough. Go slow and be mindful of conditions, especially after rain.
💰 Donations Keep History Alive
This is a free, self-guided site. Your donations are vital for preservation.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Spend at least an hour to explore the homes and cemetery; more if you love history.
💧 Check Weather Before Visiting
Recent rain can make the dirt road impassable. Plan accordingly to avoid getting stuck.
📸 Capture the Past
Bring your camera to document the well-preserved buildings and unique atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Grafton Ghost Town for its historical significance and well-preserved state, calling it a 'must-see' and 'amazing stop.' The cemetery is noted for its poignant history, and the self-guided exploration offers a unique glimpse into pioneer life. Some wish for more historical information or access to all buildings, and the dirt road access requires preparation.
"This is a must see! Amazing! One of my favorite stops on our vacation! Well kept and the history is so interesting behind this darling little town! The cemetery tells the story and the hardships of this little town."
KV
"So cool. Worth the drive and heat. Two hours is plenty of time. Wish we could have gone inside the church/school. More history would have been neat to read too."
Deenna Burris
"Donations are very welcome and needed for this historic site. Follow the signs on the road to the site. I will also update the locations. It's a bit a drive, and you might think you're lost, but just keep going. This is a real un-retailed, down home old western ghost town. Check it out before it is a tourist trap."
Garry Kepes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grafton Ghost Town is located a short drive from Springdale, near Zion National Park. You'll need to drive about 3 miles down a dirt road. Be prepared for this unpaved section, especially if it has rained recently, as it can become impassable.
No, the road leading to Grafton Ghost Town is a dirt road. It's advisable to check weather conditions before your visit, as it can become difficult to navigate after rain.
A regular car can usually access Grafton Ghost Town, but caution is advised on the dirt road. If you have a vehicle with higher clearance, it might be more comfortable. Avoid visiting immediately after heavy rain.
Yes, Grafton Ghost Town is a popular side trip for visitors to Zion National Park. It's located just down the road from Springdale, making it an easily accessible historical stop.
Follow signs from Springdale towards Grafton. The route involves a turn onto a dirt road that leads directly to the ghost town. It's recommended to use GPS or a map, as it can feel a bit remote.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Grafton Ghost Town is free to visit and explore. However, donations are highly encouraged and greatly appreciated to help with the ongoing preservation and maintenance of this historic site.
Grafton Ghost Town is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's an outdoor historic site, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light for exploration.
Some buildings, like the main house and the church, are open for visitors to explore. However, access to all structures may be limited, and some might be marked as private property.
No, tickets are not required for Grafton Ghost Town as it is a free, self-guided attraction. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
Grafton Ghost Town is a self-guided experience. You can wander through the site at your own pace, reading any available interpretive signs and imagining life in the past.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the main areas, including the homes and the cemetery. If you're a history enthusiast, you might want to linger longer.
You can see preserved pioneer homes, the historic church/schoolhouse, and a poignant cemetery. It's a well-preserved glimpse into early Mormon pioneer life and a former filming location.
While often described as eerie and historic, there are mentions of its haunted reputation, particularly due to the hardships and deaths that occurred there. Some TikTok videos touch on this aspect. +1
Grafton Ghost Town is a historic site with minimal facilities. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, and be prepared for a rustic experience. There are no restrooms on site.
The best way to explore is on foot, taking your time to walk between the buildings and read any historical markers. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
The preserved pioneer buildings, the stark beauty of the cemetery, and the surrounding desert landscape offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The historic church and main house are particularly photogenic.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at Grafton Ghost Town. It's a great place to capture historical architecture and the unique atmosphere of a ghost town.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering light for photography, creating long shadows and a warm glow on the historic structures.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management if available, as many historic sites have restrictions to protect the environment and visitor experience.
The iconic church and the main pioneer house are very popular for photos. The weathered wood and historical details make them stand out.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the site is self-guided and has limited facilities. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground. The 3-mile dirt road access requires careful driving, so supervise children during the approach. It's a great stop for a history lesson that feels like an adventure.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Plan for about 1-2 hours to explore the site. The drive down the dirt road adds to the adventure. It's a chance to step back in time and capture some unique photos before continuing your journey. Remember to check road conditions beforehand.
📸 Photographers & History Buffs
History enthusiasts will appreciate the tangible connection to the past. The self-guided nature allows for in-depth exploration of the homes and cemetery, offering insights into the lives of early settlers. Bring a notebook to jot down observations or sketch the historic structures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Grafton: From Pioneer Dreams to Abandonment
+1Despite their efforts, the persistent flooding and the desire for more communal living led to the eventual abandonment of Grafton. By the early 1900s, most residents had relocated to nearby towns like Rockville and Springdale. The town was officially deserted by the 1920s, leaving behind a collection of remarkably preserved buildings that stand as a testament to the resilience of its early inhabitants.
+1In later years, Grafton gained recognition as a picturesque filming location for classic Westerns, most notably 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' in 1969. This cinematic fame has helped draw attention to its historical significance, ensuring its preservation as a unique window into Utah's pioneer past.
Navigating the Dirt Road and Access
Travelers on Reddit and social media often emphasize checking the weather forecast. If recent rains have occurred, the dirt road can become muddy and potentially impassable, even for SUVs. Some suggest that if the road looks too challenging, it might be best to skip the visit to avoid getting stuck.
Beyond the road itself, the journey to Grafton is part of the experience. It feels off the beaten path, adding to the allure of discovering a hidden historical gem. Following the signs carefully is key, and don't be discouraged if you feel like you're driving into the middle of nowhere – that's part of Grafton's charm.
The Eerie Atmosphere and Local Lore
Some TikTok videos hint at the town's haunted lore, with creators exploring its spooky potential. While not a commercial haunted attraction, the history of disease and loss within the community lends itself to tales of the supernatural. The isolation and the remnants of lives lived long ago create a unique ambiance that many find compelling.
Beyond the ghost stories, the town's historical significance is profound. It offers a tangible connection to the lives of early Mormon pioneers, their resilience, and the challenges they overcame. This blend of history and a touch of the uncanny makes Grafton a memorable destination for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit