All About Zion Ghost Tours Southern Utah

By Karina Frost


When thinking of taking a vacation the most difficult part is choosing the where. For some people the beach is overrated and probably nature is more enticing. If this is you, Zion ghost tours southern Utah is the best option. The beautiful weather and canyons gracing the Zion National Park and the ghost towns of the 1800s will surely be more than an experience.

Silver reef is one of the two known ghost towns in Southern Utah. Silver reef was mining a mining town with silver deposits plentiful there. Despite a fire in 1879 that destroyed most of these buildings the residents rebuilt it. Facing a drop in the price of silver in 1884, the mines were closed and it was and consequently the town was also relocated

Grafton is an inspiration to visitors who stream to have a glimpse of the ancient town. The historic homes combined with green pastures and a stunning Virgin River offers a non forgettable experience. Grafton is just on the southern entrance of Zion National Park and has offered a great background for several Hollywood films.

Many stories are told of beginning of the town. In 1859, Grafton begun, located along the banks of the Virgin River in the southern side. The original settlers called the Mormon pioneers according to history developed a cotton industry in the area as their Prophet had directed them. The Virgin River was essential for their survival but it also brought upon them calamities.

According to history, there was massive downpour for forty days continuously in 1862. The river flooded massively sweeping away their homes and farms. As a result, Grafton had to be relocated northwards about a mile. Much later, industries for cotton and silk spinning were built which continued to sustain the lives of residents until 1920s when it was abandoned.

The 1862 flood coupled with attacks from hostile communities in 1866 led to abandonment of this town eventually. What was left was an old church, a cemetery and a few old houses. The cemetery however is one of brilliant attractions of Grafton as it is a story of sad state of affairs in the 1800s.

Tours of ghost town is suitable for the whole family including the young ones. There are abundant strolling areas and photography fans are not left out. It is also a chance to learn the life that people lived in the last few centuries as well as educate on strives of humanity through out history. The roads are in a bad state however and a four wheel drive is necessary. A tour guide is advisable when taking the trip.

A guide shows you around, entertains you and gives you more information about the ecology, geology and history of this area. There are several tour guide operators in the area. You may want to choose the best based on their customer reviews in their websites. The tours are limited to a certain number of people per trip so it is prudent to can in first and book in advance.




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