Discover if Grafton Ghost Town near Zion is worth visiting! Explore its history, location, how to get there, and what to expect on your trip.
If the crumbling buildings of Grafton Ghost Town look familiar, you might have seen them on the big screen. This eerie yet picturesque spot was featured in the 1969 classic Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, making it one of the most famous ghost towns in Utah. But beyond its Hollywood cameo, Grafton has a fascinating past—one shaped by pioneering settlers, harsh conditions, and eventual abandonment.
Today, visitors are drawn here for its well-preserved structures, hauntingly beautiful scenery, and rich history. Whether you’re a photographer looking for a unique backdrop, a history buff intrigued by the remnants of the Old West, or just someone who loves the thrill of exploring forgotten places, Grafton is worth adding to your itinerary.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Grafton Ghost Town near Zion, including its history, how to get there, what to expect, and whether it’s truly worth the trip.
Read More // Don’t forget to read my Ultimate Guide for your first visit to Zion National Park!
History of Grafton Ghost Town
Tucked away in the shadow of Zion National Park, Grafton Ghost Town is a haunting reminder of the early pioneer days in Utah. Founded in 1859, Grafton was originally settled by Mormon pioneers as part of a cotton-growing experiment encouraged by Brigham Young. The fertile land along the Virgin River made it an ideal spot for agriculture, and the settlers built homes, a schoolhouse, and farms to support their small community.
However, life in Grafton was anything but easy. Frequent flooding from the Virgin River washed away crops and homes, forcing settlers to rebuild multiple times. On top of that, tensions with local Native American tribes, harsh winters, and isolation made survival difficult. By the early 1900s, residents began to leave in search of better opportunities, and by 1945, Grafton was completely abandoned.
Though no one has lived in Grafton for decades, it has gained fame in popular culture. The town’s beautifully preserved structures and Old West aesthetic caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to its appearance in several films. Most notably, Grafton was featured in the 1969 Western classic Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford. The famous bicycle scene, set to the song Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head, was filmed right in the heart of Grafton.
Today, the town stands as a well-preserved ghost town, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its abandoned homes, schoolhouse, and cemetery—a quiet tribute to the resilience of early settlers and the challenges they faced.
How to Get to Grafton Ghost Town
Grafton Ghost Town is just a short drive from Zion National Park, making it a great detour for history lovers and photographers alike. Located about 6 miles southwest of Springdale, the town is easily accessible by car, though the final stretch of the drive requires some caution.
Distance & Driving Directions
- From Springdale (Zion National Park’s main entrance) → Drive 3.5 miles west on UT-9 toward Rockville.
- In Rockville → Turn left (south) onto Bridge Road, cross the historic Rockville Bridge, and continue for 2.5 miles on a dirt road until you reach Grafton.
- The first part of the drive is paved, but the last 2.5 miles are on a dirt road.
- The road is usually passable in dry conditions for any car, but after rain, it can become muddy and difficult for low-clearance vehicles.
- There are no services in Grafton, so make sure to have enough gas, water, and supplies.
The Details
Where | Find Grafton Ghost Town on google map here.
Price | Free to visit – there are no entrance fees or permits required. But they do ask for donation so I invite you to give what you can to help with the preservation of Grafton.
What to Expect When Visiting Grafton Ghost Town
Grafton may be abandoned, but it still holds a powerful presence. The town’s well-preserved structures, hauntingly quiet landscape, and Old West atmosphere make it an unforgettable stop near Zion National Park. Here’s what you can expect when visiting:
What Remains of the Town
While many of Grafton’s original buildings have disappeared over time, a few key structures still stand:
- The Grafton Schoolhouse – One of the most iconic buildings, this brick schoolhouse doubled as a church and community center in its day.
- Abandoned Homes – A few preserved log and adobe houses give a glimpse into pioneer life in the 1800s.
- The Grafton Cemetery – One of the most fascinating (and eerie) parts of the town. Some tombstones date back to the 1860s, with stories of tragic deaths from Native American raids, accidents, and disease.
- Farming Equipment & Fences – Scattered remnants of the town’s early agricultural days can still be found.
Though the town is no longer inhabited, visitors can walk through the area freely, exploring these historic sites up close.
Tips for Visiting Grafton Ghost Town
Before heading to Grafton Ghost Town, keep these tips in mind to make the most of your visit while respecting the historic site.
Best Time to Visit
Best Seasons: Spring and Fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and the best lighting for photography. Winters can be cold, and summer afternoons can be extremely hot.
Best Time of Day:
- Golden Hour (early morning or late afternoon) – The soft light adds an eerie glow to the abandoned buildings and enhances photos.
- Midday visits in summer are not recommended—it gets hot, and the harsh lighting can wash out details.
Rules & Restrictions
Respect the Historic Site:
- Do not enter or climb on buildings – They are fragile and should be preserved for future visitors.
- Leave no trace – No littering or vandalism.
- Respect the cemetery – Many graves date back to the 1800s; be mindful when exploring.
- Check road conditions after rain – The dirt road can become muddy and difficult to drive on.
🚫 No Amenities – There are no bathrooms, visitor centers, or shops, so plan accordingly.
Read More // Where to stay near Zion National Park?
Should you visit Grafton Ghost Town? My final thoughts!
Grafton Ghost Town may be small, but it’s packed with history, charm, and a haunting beauty that makes it a unique stop near Zion National Park. Whether you’re drawn to its pioneer past, eerie abandoned buildings, or its connection to Hollywood, visiting Grafton is like stepping back in time. It’s an easy, free detour that offers incredible photo opportunities, quiet solitude, and a glimpse into Utah’s past.
If you love exploring ghost towns, Old West history, or off-the-beaten-path spots, Grafton is absolutely worth a visit.
Have you visited Grafton Ghost Town? Or is it on your list for your next Zion road trip? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experience!
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I knew Tuscany would be beautiful… but I didn’t expect to feel so enchanted by its smaller towns.
Here are four stops that completely stole the show on my trip:
1. San Gimignano
Known as the Manhattan of the Middle Ages (because of its towers), this hilltop town has views for days and some of the best gelato I’ve ever had. It’s busy, yes, but worth every step. Go early or stay late to see it glow in the golden hour.
2. Monteriggioni
This one feels like a secret. A perfectly preserved medieval village perched on a hill, surrounded by ancient stone walls. You can walk the ramparts, sip wine in the tiny square, and imagine what life looked like hundreds of years ago.
3. Siena
Florence’s historical rival, and a city with serious soul. The Piazza del Campo is stunning, but it’s the backstreets that really charmed me. Don’t skip the Duomo, it’s easily one of the most incredible churches I’ve ever seen.
4. Lucca
Soft light, quiet charm, and tree-lined walls you can walk or bike on. Lucca doesn’t try too hard, and that’s what makes it special. It’s a town for slow mornings and long lunches.
Swipe through to see a little glimpse of each.
And if you’ve ever been, tell me: which one stole your heart? ❤️
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#TuscanyTowns #TuscanyTravel #ItalyItinerary #SanGimignano #Monteriggioni #SienaItaly #LuccaTuscany #SlowTravel #ItalianEscape
7 ways to make your summer in the Thousand Islands not boring 🛶🍻🍎⛺️
If you’ve only driven past Gananoque on the 401… you’ve been seriously missing out. This region along the St. Lawrence River is packed with scenic views, cider tastings, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Here’s your non-boring summer to-do list in the 1000 Islands, Ontario:
1️⃣ Hike up to Landon Bay Lookout for one of the best views in the region
2️⃣ Sip local cider at the beautiful @buslcider
3️⃣ Climb the 1000 Islands Tower for a panoramic view of the islands
4️⃣ Try beer and wood-fired pizza at @arbrubeer
5️⃣ Paddle your way through the islands on a guided kayak tour
6️⃣ Take a scenic helicopter ride over the Thousand Islands 🚁
7️⃣ Spend the night in a Parks Canada O’Tentik tent, part cabin, part tent, fully cozy
This is your sign to explore the Thousand Islands this summer and turn a day trip into a full weekend escape.
Which one are you adding to your bucket list?👇
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#ThousandIslands #1000IslandsOntario #ExploreOntario #SummerInOntario #Gananoque #OntarioWeekendTrip #OntarioTravel #StLawrenceRiver #OutdoorAdventure #TravelOntario #ThingsToDoInOntario #OntarioGetaways
Sippin’ my way through Prince Edward County like it’s a full-time job 🍷🍸🍺
If you’re the type who plans your Ontario summer trip around what you can drink as much as what you can do… this one’s for you.
From award-winning wineries to farm-based distilleries and lakeside cideries, here’s your ultimate guide to raising a glass (or three) in Prince Edward County this summer:
📍 Bare Bones for small-batch gin
🍷 Karlo Estates for award winning wines in a charming barn
🥂 Hinterland for bubbles with a view
🍎 County Cider for that perfect patio moment
🍷 The Grange for elegant sips in a heritage setting
🍸 Wild Lot for cocktails in the middle of the countryside
🍺 Parson’s Brewing for chill vibes & beer flights
🍷 Closson Chase for iconic lavender-lined photos & Pinot
🍺 Slake Brewery for that sunset magic
🍸 BONUS: The Russ & Co for an elevated cocktail hour in downtown Picton
This is your summer drink-lover guide to Prince Edward County, Ontario — whether you’re into wine tasting, craft beer, or creative cocktails, there’s a pour waiting for you.
Tag your drinking buddy & start planning your County crawl 🥂
Someone just asked you to drop everything and disappear into the forest with them.
🌲✨ Welcome to The Baltic by Fort Treehouse in Minden, Ontario, the dreamiest treehouse stay in Ontario.
This cozy Airbnb cabin is tucked away in the woods and comes with a wood-fired hot tub under the stars and huge windows that make you feel like you’re living in a forest fairytale.
Think:
☕ Slow mornings with coffee in bed
📚 A good book and nothing but trees around you
🔥 Wood-heated hot tub vibes and peaceful evenings by the fire
🛏️ Cozy, romantic, off-grid energy all weekend long
✨ Tag your cabin getaway buddy and save this Ontario stay for your next romantic weekend
So be honest, could you go off-grid here?
*invited stay*
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#treehousestay #ontariocabin #airbnbontario #romanticgetaway #weekendescape #cabinwithhottub #uniquestayscanada #forttreehouse #mindenontario #canadiangetaway #cozycabinvibes
Somewhere between pastel skies and cliffside trails, I found myself in a real-life Disney movie! 🎥 🍿
Welcome to Cinque Terre, Italy! Five colorful coastal towns stitched into the Italian Riviera, each one looking like it was plucked straight from a Disney storyboard. I half expected to see Luca and Alberto racing into the sea yelling “Silenzio Bruno!”
And honestly? It makes sense. The movie Luca was inspired by this exact region: villages like Vernazza and Riomaggiore, with their painted houses, seaside boats, and sun-drenched charm. Being there felt like stepping right into the set of a Pixar film.
We spent our days hiking in Cinque Terre, winding through vineyards, lemon trees, and Mediterranean views that didn’t even look real.
And just when I thought it couldn’t get better—we found the tiniest restaurant I’ve ever seen. One table. No sign. Just a blue crab pasta that might’ve been the best pasta of my life.
📌Save this for your Italy travel inspiration, Cinque Terre is calling.
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#cinqueterreitaly #italytravelinspo #lucamovievibes #hikingitaly #europeandestinations
