Exploring Grafton Ghost Town
Exploring Grafton Ghost Town: A Journey Back in Time Near Zion National Park
Nestled along the Virgin River, just outside Zion National Park, Grafton Ghost Town remains one of Utah’s most evocative frontier relics. With its weathered buildings, pioneer cemetery, and dramatic scenery, it’s a must-see side trip for anyone visiting Zion. Below you’ll find photos, a helpful map, and travel directions to help you plan your visit.
Travel Directions from Springdale, Utah
Here are turn-by-turn directions, GPS info, and tips so you won’t get lost.
StepInstructionStartBegin in Springdale, UT, the town right outside Zion National Park.Highway RouteHead west on State Route 9 (SR-9) toward Rockville. Rockville is about 4 miles west of Springdale. Turn In Rockville, look for Bridge Road (on the east side of Rockville). Cross the BridgeCross the Virgin River via the old iconic (single-lane, iron or lattice-truss) bridge built in 1924. After the BridgeRight after crossing, take a right onto Grafton Road (dirt road section). Follow SignsStay on Grafton Road—turn right at intersections as marked. The last ~2 miles are unpaved. Final DestinationThe road ends at the townsite. The cemetery is on the left before reaching the cluster of buildings.
GPS Coordinates
Townsite: 37°10′02″ N, 113°04′48″ W graftonheritage.org
Approximate Location: ~7 miles west of Springdale.
What to See Once You Arrive
Here are some highlights and historical features to look for:
The Schoolhouse / Church (built 1886) – one of the best preserved buildings.
Russell Home, Wood Home, and a few other pioneer residences.
Barns, outbuildings and relics scattered among pastures.
The cemetery, with graves dating back to the 1860s and early pioneers.
Scenery – red cliffs of the national park as backdrop, the Virgin River, cottonwood trees, etc.
Practical Tips for Visiting
There are no services (water, restrooms, power) at the site. Plan accordingly.
The road can become impassable during or after heavy rain; the dirt sections get muddy and slick.
Because many of the buildings are historic and fragile, respect paths, avoid climbing on or inside structures unless expressly allowed.
Best times for photos are early morning or late afternoon when lighting is softer and the shadows make the textures pop.
Pair this trip with a stay in Springdale or Rockville, so you can make Grafton a side-morning or side-afternoon trip while exploring Zion.
Who Manages Grafton & Its Preservation Status
The Grafton Heritage Partnership Project has overseen restoration and preservation of the site since the late 1990s. Structures have been stabilized, and the land around Grafton is preserved to maintain its historic feel.
