Desolation Canyon

Desolation and Gray Canyons near Green River, Utah are rich with early American history. Throughout the 1800s
and early 1900s, prospectors, homesteaders, farmers and ranchers came seeking a better life. Land was plentiful,
but those that staked their claim in Desolation and Gray usually found it too wild to be tamed. The legacy of
these early Americans can be seen throughout the river corridor. An abandoned wooden skiff can be found just
upstream from Gold Hole. At Rock Creek, the remains of an abandoned cabin marks the end of a settlers dream.
Soon after Powell's legendary trip through Desolation, a different sort of explorer ventured into these canyons.
These were the outlaws of the old west, and they came to these remote regions not to chart maps or grow crops,
but to hide out from the law. The weathered remnants of the McPherson ranch is a popular stop for river
travelers. It was here that Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid often hid out and traded with local ranchers for
fresh horses.

Prior to the arrival of settlers to the Colorado Plateau, this vast expanse of territory was occupied by a much
older generation of people. Over 2,000 years ago, Paleo Indians inhabited these river canyons. These indigenous
peoples gradually evolved into what we now know as the Fremont Indian culture which lived here about 800 years
ago. Evidence of their existence is found in the stone ruins, arrowheads, pottery and petroglyphs they left behind.
These revealing sites tell the story of an ancient culture that once flourished along the river. Although protected
by federal law, these sites are accessible and readily viewed by river travelers throughout both of these canyons.
Over the years, Desolation has become popular with families and first time river runners. The combination of
white water, scenery and history is a great introduction to the sport of white water rafting. These rapids are
challenging and provide plenty of excitement but are not overwhelming for beginners and most family groups.
River runners interested in being more personally involved often request that their outfitter bring along
inflatable kayaks. These one-man boats allow thrill seekers to challenger the rapids one on one.

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Desolation Canyon History - Central Utah

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