Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Zion Ghost Tours Southern Utah To Ghost Towns

By Karina Frost


Places for vacations can be quite difficult to pick. The beach is overrated and probably foreign travel may not be on your agenda. Zion ghost tours southern Utah in the vicinity of a historic national park however sounds like a plan. Beautiful weather and amazing canyons grace the landscape of Zion National Park.

In southern Utah you will find the ghost town of Silver Reef. It was begun as a mining town due to the plentiful silver deposits found there. The town survived a raging fire in 1879 that destroyed most buildings which were however rebuilt later. It was however not able to survive the worldwide drop in the price of silver and many mines were shut down. This led to a relocation of this town.

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.

There are vivid tales about the origin of the ghost towns. Grafton was begun in the year 1859 on the southern banks of Virgin River. According to history, the original settlers were Mormon pioneers who established a cotton mission in this area in accordance to directions from Prophet Brigham Young. The establishment of this town along Virgin River was a blessing and curse at the same time.

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 flood of 1862 and consequent attacks by the Indians in 1866 contributed to the eventual abandonment of this town. All that remains now is an old church house, a number of houses and a cemetery. The cemetery is one of the most inspiring places in this town as it tells a story of sorry state of life in the 1800s.

A tour to the ghost towns is quite an experience even for the young ones. There is plenty of space to stroll, take pictures and admire the life that was in past few hundred years. Due to the nature of these roads, however, a 4WD drive is advised. It may be tempting to go by yourself but it would be for your own good to have a tour guide. This place is vast and you may not know which route to take.

The place is huge, save the trouble of talking wrong turns by hiring a guide. In addition, the guide will entertain you and educate you on the history, geology and ecology of this area. Several guide companies exist and choosing one you may have to rely on customer reviews. Finally, remember to telephone in advance to book a place.




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