Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Zion Ghost Tours Southern Utah For Vacation

By Karina Frost


It can be difficult to choose a nice place to go to for vacations. Most people think the beach is overrated and international travel is not appealing. If you are in this category of people, Zion ghost tours southern Utah is for you. Ghost towns in the vicinity of the Zion National Park sound interesting. The landscape is graced with amazing canyons that you will find enticing.

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 another town in southern Utah located just at the southern entrance of Zion Park. It offers a glimpse into the life of the ancient settlers of the town. It boasts of historic homes coupled with green pastures and a beautiful view of these banks of Virgin River. The town has been used as a setting of several Hollywood movies.

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.

The ghost town tours are favorable for the whole family including for the young ones. There are strolling areas and even photography enthusiasts will find the place conducive. In addition, it is a chance to remind you of the far that we have come in history. The state of roads requires a 4WD and as much as it is tempting to take the tour alone it is ill advised. Tour guides are available to show visitors around at a small fee.

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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