A Little-Known Slice Of Arizona History Can Be Found At This Recreation Area

If you're interested in Arizona history, then you most likely enjoy visiting historic locations around the state. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area One is one area of the state that's not only home to several fascinating natural attractions like Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend, but historic attractions as well. One bit of history you may not have ever heard of is found at the Lonely Dell Historic District. It was once home to a pioneer ranch and you can see what remains today.

In the 1870s there was the Great Mormon Migration during which Mormon pioneers traveled from Utah into Arizona. The purpose was to create Mormon colonies across the West.

A man by the name of John D. Lee created a ferry service in the area to enable Mormon pioneers to cross the Colorado River. This became known as "Lees Ferry."

The ferry enabled a settlement to be established in this part of Arizona. Lee and others built a number of stone structures and the community, complete with a church, became known as Lonely Dell.

John D. Lee had originally came to northern Arizona as a fugitive for his role during the Mountain Meadows Massacre of 1957. In 1874, Lee was tried and executed for his involvement in the massacre.

Today, you can visit what remains of the historic pioneer ranch of Lonely Dell. When you arrive on the grounds, feel free to take a self-guided tour to see the ranch buildings.

One such ranch. building is this root cellar. Partially dug into the earth, root cellars were used to keep vegetables, fruit, and dairy from spoiling.

You'll also be able to take a stroll through the homestead's orchard. Feel free to pick a piece of fruit off a tree for a snack at Lonely Dell Ranch Orchard!

The history of this historic pioneer ranch is quite interesting, isn't it? Did you know about this slice of Arizona history? Let us know! To learn more about Lonely Dell Ranch, visit the National Park Service website.

Lonely Dell Ranch is located within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, home to numerous hiking trails. Visit AllTrails to view the many hikes offered throughout Glen Canyon, and download the AllTrails+ app to guide you along.