Old Paria Townsite - Image 1
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Old Paria Townsite

4.5
·172 reviews·Kanab, United States

Explore the remnants of a frontier settlement and filming location amidst stunning, colorful desert landscapes. A unique historical stop with challeng...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Old Paria Townsite - Image 1

Old Paria Townsite

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the remnants of a frontier settlement and filming location amidst stunning, colorful desert landscapes. A unique historical stop with challenging access.

4.5
(172 reviews)

"A neat ghost town with beautiful scenery, but be careful with your vehicle and the weather!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 4x4 Recommended

A 4x4 or AWD vehicle is highly recommended, especially for reaching the cemetery. Flash floods are a serious risk!

💧 River Crossing

Be prepared to cross the Paria River. It's usually shallow, but check conditions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historical Marker

Historical Marker

Intersection of Route 89 and Paria Movie Road

Learn about the area's first settlement established in 1865 by Peter Shirts. A quick stop to stretch your legs and soak in history.

Paria River Crossing

Paria River Crossing

Access to the old stone buildings

Cross the shallow Paria River to reach remnants of the town, once inhabited from 1870 to 1929 and a filming location.

Unique Scenery

Unique Scenery

Throughout the site

Admire the stunning 360° views and gypsum-coated riverbanks that create an otherworldly, colorful landscape.

Paria Cemetery

Paria Cemetery

Further into the site

A restored graveyard offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers. Requires careful navigation of creek beds and inclines.

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Planning Your Visit

Vehicle Choice is Key

While some reviews mention a well-maintained dirt road, others strongly advise against visiting without a 4x4 or AWD vehicle, especially near the cemetery. Flash floods are a real concern, so check weather forecasts before you go.

Embrace the Ghost Town Vibe

Old Paria Townsite is more of a historical marker and filming location than a traditional ghost town with many standing structures. Focus on the unique scenery and historical context rather than expecting a fully preserved town.

Best Times

When
Spring and Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (with caution)
Why
Good light for photos, but watch for flash floods
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ultimate Kanab, Utah Itinerary (Beyond Zion!) If you're looking for epic adventures near Kanab without the Zion crowds, here's the perfect itinerary for you! Toadstool Hoodoos - A short, easy hike (~1.5 miles roundtrip) that leads to unique rock formations resembling giant toadstools. It feels like you're walking on another planet! Belly of the Dragon - This hidden tunnel was originally carved as ...
@enders.explore
7.6K likes • 130.1K views

🚗 4x4 Recommended

A 4x4 or AWD vehicle is highly recommended, especially for reaching the cemetery. Flash floods are a serious risk! Reddit

💧 River Crossing

Be prepared to cross the Paria River. It's usually shallow, but check conditions. Reddit

✨You’ve just arrived in Kanab, Utah, one of the outdoor Meccas of the desert Southwest. . Located 3 hours from Las Vegas, 4.5 hours from Salt Lake City, and 5.5 hours from Phoenix, Kanab is the perfect getaway for a long weekend and offers a bit of adventure for every skill and comfort level. It also gives you easy access to both Zion National Park (30 minutes), Bryce Canyon National Park (1 hour ...
@hello_mallory
2K likes • 66.9K views
The colors here are amazing! #oldpariatownsite #oldparia #pariautah #colors #utah #kanabutah
simsdaniel
23 likes • 256 views

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant colors of the landscape are stunning. Bring your camera! Instagram

🗺️ Use GPS

Google Maps can help navigate the site, especially when finding the cemetery. Reddit

reddit.com

Kanab sightseeing advice

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 4x4 Recommended

A 4x4 or AWD vehicle is highly recommended, especially for reaching the cemetery. Flash floods are a serious risk! Reddit

💧 River Crossing

Be prepared to cross the Paria River. It's usually shallow, but check conditions. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant colors of the landscape are stunning. Bring your camera! Instagram

🗺️ Use GPS

Google Maps can help navigate the site, especially when finding the cemetery. Reddit

☀️ Avoid Flash Floods

Always check the weather and avoid visiting during or after heavy rain. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(172 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Old Paria Townsite to be a unique historical site with stunning, otherworldly scenery, particularly the colorful gypsum-coated riverbanks. While not a traditional ghost town, its history as a settlement and filming location, along with the cemetery, offers intrigue. However, access can be challenging, with a strong recommendation for 4x4 vehicles and caution advised due to flash flood risks.

"Found this historical marker off Route 89 dedicated to the first settlement in this area by Peter Shirts in 1865. Located at the intersection of Route 89 and Paria Movie Road. This plague was erected in 1997 by the Kane Company by the “Daughters of Utah Pioneers.” It’s an interesting stop along the way and a good place to get out and stretch your legs and for Geocachers, there are two geocaches close by."

Thomas B

"This was a nice place to go to. The scenery was beautiful all 360° You have a small hike, cross a river(only 6 inches deep right now.). Worth the hike, and have a picnic or so. The road out is maintained well, until you get closer to the cemetery, then use caution you run into creek beds to cross.( Not that i would do it but i did see a RV in there). So take your time and enjoy the family trail."

Roland Brown

"I had a fun time exploring this beautiful unique area.
You will need to cross the Pariah River to get to the old stone buildings.
It was inhabited from 1870 to 1929 and later used as a filming location. One film being The Outlaw Josey Wales in 1975.
The riverbanks are coated with soluble white gypsum."

Stewart Carnes

What People Like

Unique colorful scenery
Historical significance
Filming location history

What People Dislike

Challenging road access
Flash flood danger
Limited standing structures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Paria Townsite is located off Highway 89, near the intersection with Paria Movie Road. The road to the site is unpaved and can be rough, especially closer to the cemetery. A 4x4 or AWD vehicle is strongly recommended. Reddit

No, the road is primarily a maintained dirt road. While some sections are good, it can become challenging, particularly when approaching the cemetery area with its creek beds and inclines. Reddit

It's generally advised against visiting in a standard car, especially if you plan to explore further into the site or reach the cemetery. A higher clearance and 4WD/AWD vehicle is best. Reddit

Using GPS, like Google Maps, can be helpful for navigating the site and finding specific points of interest like the cemetery. Reddit

Old Paria Townsite is located near Kanab, Utah, which offers access to attractions like Zion National Park, Toadstool Hoodoos, and Belly of the Dragon. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to visit the Old Paria Townsite. It is a historical area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and is open to the public.

The Old Paria Townsite is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours, but it's advisable to visit during safe daylight conditions, especially considering potential flash floods. Reddit

No, tickets are not required, and advance booking is not necessary for Old Paria Townsite as it is an open historical site.

Visitors should be mindful of the environment, avoid disturbing historical remnants, and be aware of flash flood risks. Proper vehicle choice is also a key consideration. Reddit

Camping is not typically permitted within the immediate Old Paria Townsite area. However, there are BLM campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities in the surrounding Kanab area. Always check BLM regulations for specific areas.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a historical marker, remnants of old stone buildings, the Paria River, unique colorful landscapes with gypsum deposits, and the restored Paria Cemetery. It was also a filming location for movies like 'The Outlaw Josey Wales'. Reddit+1

It's more of a historical site and former filming location than a traditional ghost town with many standing structures. The main remnants are the cemetery and some stone foundations. Reddit

There are opportunities for short walks and exploration around the site, including crossing the Paria River. The terrain can be uneven, especially near the cemetery. Reddit

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and potentially crossing a shallow river. Comfortable clothing for outdoor exploration is recommended. Reddit

There are no developed facilities such as restrooms or visitor centers at the Old Paria Townsite. Plan accordingly and pack out everything you pack in.

📸 📸 Photography

The unique geological formations, colorful gypsum-coated riverbanks, the historical cemetery, and the vast desert landscapes offer fantastic photography opportunities. The light can be particularly beautiful in the morning and late afternoon. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the vibrant colors of the landscape. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to BLM regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area. Generally, flying over sensitive historical sites or in areas with wildlife may be restricted.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details in the cemetery or distant formations. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the river. Instagram

The entire area offers scenic views. Exploring around the river crossing and the cemetery will provide diverse photographic subjects. The historical marker itself is also a good photo op. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Paria Townsite can be an interesting stop for families, offering a blend of history and unique scenery. The historical marker provides a brief educational moment, and the Paria River crossing can be an exciting, shallow adventure for kids. Reddit However, parents should be aware that the site is not a traditional playground. The terrain can be uneven, and 4x4 vehicle access is recommended for deeper exploration, which might limit access for some families. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely, especially near the river and cemetery. The flash flood risk is also a critical safety consideration for families, so always check the weather. Reddit

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For road trippers exploring Southern Utah, Old Paria Townsite is a worthwhile detour off Highway 89. It offers a chance to stretch your legs and experience a different kind of historical site compared to more developed attractions. Reddit The unique scenery and the remnants of a frontier town provide excellent photo opportunities. Instagram If you're planning to visit, ensure your vehicle is suitable for dirt roads and be mindful of the flash flood warnings. It's a great spot to break up a longer drive and add a touch of historical grit to your itinerary. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain and Safety

The journey to and within Old Paria Townsite requires careful consideration of the terrain. While some visitors report a well-maintained dirt road, others emphasize the need for a 4x4 or AWD vehicle, particularly when venturing towards the cemetery. This area features creek beds and steep inclines that can be challenging for standard vehicles. Reddit It's crucial to be aware of flash flood risks, especially during monsoon season or after heavy rainfall. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) advises against visiting during or immediately after storms, as even 4x4 vehicles can get stuck. Always check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared to turn back if conditions are unsafe. Reddit

When exploring on foot, wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven ground and potential river crossings. The Paria River is typically shallow, but its depth can vary. Remember that there are no developed facilities like restrooms at the site, so plan accordingly and carry out all trash. The historical nature of the site means you should tread lightly and respect the remnants of the past. Reddit

Historical Significance and Filming Location

Old Paria Townsite holds a unique place in Utah's history, serving as the site of the first settlement by Peter Shirts in 1865. It was inhabited from 1870 to 1929, and though few structures remain, its historical marker and cemetery offer a glimpse into its past. Reddit The area gained further recognition as a filming location for several Western movies, most notably 'The Outlaw Josey Wales' in 1975. This cinematic connection adds another layer of intrigue for visitors. Reddit

The landscape itself is remarkable, characterized by colorful, gypsum-coated riverbanks and unique geological formations. The stark beauty of the desert environment, combined with the historical context, makes Old Paria a compelling stop for those interested in the American West's frontier history and its portrayal in film. Instagram

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