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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 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.

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.

It is said that in 1862, there was rain fall that lasted forty consecutive days and the river water became too big and washed the town away. The town had to be moved just about a mile north for remaining residents to survive. Later, they built industries for spinning cotton and silk although the town was abandoned in 1920s.

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.

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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