Lonely Dell Ranch
Step back in time at Lonely Dell Ranch, a historic oasis near Lee's Ferry, offering rustic charm, seasonal fruit picking, and peaceful desert views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & secure parking
Lonely Dell Ranch
Best Time
Beat the heat & secure parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Lonely Dell Ranch, a historic oasis near Lee's Ferry, offering rustic charm, seasonal fruit picking, and peaceful desert views.
"A visit here is truly a step back in time, as you immerse yourself in the wilderness and experience the peaceful solitude."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Arrive very early, as there are only about 5 parking spots. Go early to avoid disappointment!
🍎 Free Fruit Picking!
In season (late summer/fall), you can pick up to 5 lbs of fruit for free. Sweet pears are a treat!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Ranch Buildings
Main ranch area
Explore rustic buildings with plaques detailing their history as ferrymen's homes and a dude ranch.
Seasonal Fruit Orchards
South of the main ranch house
Pick up to five pounds of free, delicious fruit when the trees are bearing. A sweet desert surprise!
Lee's Ferry Cemetery
Short walk north of the ranch house
A poignant historical site, this cemetery offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and river runners.
Paria River Views
Bordering the former agricultural fields
Enjoy the serene landscape and stunning views of the Paria River and surrounding desert terrain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Parking
Fruit Picking & Park Passes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Arrive very early, as there are only about 5 parking spots. Go early to avoid disappointment!
🍎 Free Fruit Picking!
In season (late summer/fall), you can pick up to 5 lbs of fruit for free. Sweet pears are a treat!
🏞️ Glen Canyon Fee
There's an entrance fee for Glen Canyon NRA. National Park Passes are accepted.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Walk a mile or two to see everything; there's plenty to discover. Enjoy the desert scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Arrive very early, as there are only about 5 parking spots. Go early to avoid disappointment!
🍎 Free Fruit Picking!
In season (late summer/fall), you can pick up to 5 lbs of fruit for free. Sweet pears are a treat!
🏞️ Glen Canyon Fee
There's an entrance fee for Glen Canyon NRA. National Park Passes are accepted.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Walk a mile or two to see everything; there's plenty to discover. Enjoy the desert scenery.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun
Pets are welcome at the ranch, making it a great spot for animal lovers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lonely Dell Ranch for its serene atmosphere, historical significance, and the unique opportunity to pick free fruit from its orchards. The rustic charm and peaceful solitude are frequently highlighted, offering a step back in time. However, the extremely limited parking is a recurring point of frustration for many.
"This serene and historic ranch is another hidden gem within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and adjacent to Lees Ferry. This rustic ranch was once the home to legendary Colorado River runner John D. Lee and boasts stunning views of the Paria River and surrounding landscape. Located just a short walk to the north of the main ranch house, is the old Lees Ferry Cemetery. To the south, you will find the orchards, where you are able to pick up to five pounds of free fruit once the trees bear fruit. There is a very limited amount of parking close to the ranch, which is located along a dirt road leading to the ranch. You cannot drive past the ranch gate at any time. We met several workers and rangers during our visit, and they were all very friendly, helpful and willing to answer any questions we had about the ranch and its history. A visit here is truly a step back in time, as you immerse yourself in the wilderness and experience the peaceful solitude that defies this enchanting ranch."
Thomas B
"Beautiful ranch with orchards and historic buildings. Most of the structures have plaques that tell its story. The picnic area is a great place to hide from the sun with its shaded trees. The orchards also bear fruits, and you can pick it! Got some sweet pears. Pets are also welcome!"
Town Traveller
"This is part of the Lee’s Ferry area of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. There are fees to enter recreation area (self pay booth as you enter the recreation area after crossing the Navajo Bridge), but the typical National Park Passes are valid.
There are several historic buildings at the ranch that date from its earliest period as the home for the ferrymen to more recent use as a Dude Ranch. We visited in mid-March and the fruit trees in the orchard were starting to flower. We also took a walk back to the cemetery that is past the main buildings and the former agricultural fields that border the Paria River. Great signage to tell the story of this site. In late summer and early fall, visitors may pick fruit from the orchard."
Corinne Severn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lonely Dell Ranch is located near Lee's Ferry within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Access is via a dirt road leading to the ranch, but you cannot drive past the ranch gate. Parking is extremely limited, so plan to arrive early.
Yes, Lonely Dell Ranch is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. There is an entrance fee for the recreation area, but National Park Passes are typically valid.
The drive to Lonely Dell Ranch involves a dirt road. While scenic, be prepared for unpaved conditions. The surrounding area offers beautiful desert landscapes.
You can drive to the vicinity of Lonely Dell Ranch via a dirt road, but you are not permitted to drive past the ranch gate. Parking is available near the entrance.
There are no specific shuttle services mentioned for Lonely Dell Ranch itself. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles, but due to limited parking, early arrival is crucial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lonely Dell Ranch is within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which has an entrance fee. However, National Park Passes are generally accepted, so check if your pass covers the fee.
Specific operating hours for Lonely Dell Ranch are not always clearly defined, but it's best to visit during daylight hours. The orchards have seasonal availability for fruit picking.
No, you can pick up to five pounds of fruit from the orchards for free when the trees are bearing fruit, typically in late summer and early fall.
Yes, National Park Passes are typically valid for entry into Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which includes Lonely Dell Ranch.
Parking is extremely limited, with only about 5 spots available. It is highly recommended to arrive very early in the day to secure a parking space.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic ranch buildings with informative plaques, pick seasonal fruit from the orchards, visit the Lee's Ferry Cemetery, and enjoy views of the Paria River. There are also trails for short hikes.
Yes, visitors can walk a mile or so on trails around Lonely Dell Ranch to explore the area and enjoy the desert scenery.
Yes, families can enjoy the historic aspects, fruit picking (seasonally), and short walks. It offers a peaceful, educational experience.
Yes, pets are welcome at Lonely Dell Ranch, making it a good destination for visitors with furry companions.
The orchards at Lonely Dell Ranch typically bear fruits like pears. The specific types of fruit available can vary by season.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the rustic charm of the historic buildings, the vibrant colors of the orchards (especially during bloom or harvest), and the serene desert landscapes along the Paria River. The cemetery also offers unique photographic subjects.
Absolutely. The ranch is situated in a beautiful desert environment with the Paria River and surrounding mesas providing excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. This also coincides with the best times to visit for parking and avoiding crowds.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be respectful of the historic structures and the natural environment. Drone usage may be restricted within national recreation areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both landscapes and details of the historic buildings. A wide-angle lens can be useful for sweeping desert vistas. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great spot for a picnic, with shaded areas available. The historical plaques offer simple explanations that can spark curiosity. Given the limited parking, an early morning visit is highly recommended to ensure a smoother experience with children. The pet-friendly nature of the ranch also means families can bring their well-behaved dogs along for the adventure.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Page, AZ
Plan to combine your visit with other nearby sites like Lee's Ferry itself. Be mindful of the limited parking and consider visiting early in the morning to maximize your time and avoid potential delays. The fruit picking opportunity, if in season, can be a delightful bonus to your day trip. Remember to factor in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area entrance fee.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the rustic charm of the ranch, the beauty of the desert landscape, and the unique character of the orchards. The interplay of light and shadow on the old structures, especially during the golden hours, can yield stunning images. The surrounding Paria River area also offers scenic vistas. Remember to bring your camera and explore the different angles and details the ranch has to offer.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Lonely Dell Ranch
One of the most notable figures associated with the area is John D. Lee, a prominent figure in early Mormon history and a key individual in the establishment of the ferry crossing. The ranch's proximity to the Paria River and its fertile land allowed for the cultivation of orchards, a surprising oasis in the desert. This agricultural aspect, including the opportunity for visitors to pick fruit, is a unique draw. The nearby Lee's Ferry Cemetery further underscores the historical significance, serving as a final resting place for many who contributed to the region's development.
Orchards and Fruit Picking
It's important to note that fruit availability is seasonal and depends on the trees bearing fruit. Visitors should check local conditions or inquire with park rangers about the best times to visit for fruit picking. This experience adds an interactive and memorable element to a visit, making Lonely Dell Ranch more than just a historical stop but also a place of seasonal bounty.
Navigating Parking and Access
This parking constraint often means that visitors who arrive later in the day may have to wait for a spot to open up or even turn away. Planning your visit for the early morning, especially during popular travel times, will significantly enhance your experience and reduce potential frustration. The limited access also contributes to the ranch's serene and less crowded atmosphere once you are there.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit