Old Irontown is said to be the very first ghost town in Utah. While its location might feel a little spooky, it’s the history of Old Irontown that makes visitors want to stop here when they visit the southern part of Utah.
Some consider Old Irontown to be a haunted ghost town because a lot isn’t known about this remote area in Dixie National Forest. In the 1870s, a few iron companies tried their luck in this part of Utah. However, due to the economic downturn at that time, the iron companies didn’t stay around very long. And, by the 1880s, all residents left the town.
Nowadays, Old Irontown’s unique history makes it an off-the-beaten-path stop for archeological buffs visiting Utah. Thirty years ago, the site was also added to the National Register of Historic Places.
To reach this ghost town, head west on UT-56 from Cedar City. Make a left off the south side of the highway; just after the sign for Old Irontown. Continue on the road for about three miles (or until you reach the path to the ruins).
Ken Lund/Flickr While it’s only 20 miles from Cedar City, you’ll need to drive about four hours to reach Old Irontown from Salt Lake City.
Old Irontown is currently 152-years-old and is defined as an unincorporated community.
he Greater Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr
Take the Discovery Trail to reach the historical part of Old Irontown.
Melissa Kopka/Collection via iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
The charcoal kiln is one of the landmarks in the ghost town.
Melissa Kopka/iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images
Pictured are the remains of a home in Old Irontown.
Melissa Kopka/Collection via iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
This is a chimney that’s remained almost completely intact for more than 150 years.
The Great Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr
This sign references the former mill in the town that was used to sift for minerals.
The Great Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr
To learn more about the history of Old Irontown and to plan your visit, check out the Frontier Homestead Museum Foundation.
Ken Lund/Flickr
While it’s only 20 miles from Cedar City, you’ll need to drive about four hours to reach Old Irontown from Salt Lake City.
he Greater Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr
Melissa Kopka/Collection via iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Melissa Kopka/iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images
The Great Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr
The Great Southwestern Exploration Company/Flickr
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 37.6005° N, 113.4558° W
