Restored 19th-century pioneer settlement featuring preserved buildings, a historic cemetery, and interpretive signage in a scenic desert setting.
General Information
No services or facilities on site
How to Get There
From St. George (45 mi): Take UT-9 E through Hurricane and Springdale, turn right at Rockville onto Bridge Road, cross the Virgin River, and follow signs on the dirt road to Grafton.
Overview
The Grafton Ghost Town is one of the most photogenic and well-preserved ghost towns in the American West. Originally settled in 1859 by Mormon pioneers, the town was relocated after a flood in 1862 and eventually abandoned by the mid-20th century. Today, visitors can explore restored structures including a schoolhouse, several homes, and a historic cemetery. The site is maintained by the Grafton Heritage Partnership, which has worked to preserve the town’s legacy and make it accessible to the public. Interpretive signs provide insight into the lives of early settlers and the challenges they faced in this remote desert environment.
Grafton’s cinematic beauty has made it a popular filming location, most famously featured in the 1969 classic *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid*. The ghost town is located just outside Zion National Park, making it a perfect side trip for history buffs and photographers. While there are no amenities on site, the peaceful setting and historical significance make it a rewarding stop. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, respect the structures, and consider donating to support ongoing preservation efforts.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for Grafton Ghost Town, which are released under the https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/.