Frontier Homestead State Park, Utah

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Frontier Homestead State Park

Frontier Homestead State Park and Museum tells the history of Iron County and includes the Old Iron Town Ruins of the ironworks created in the 1850s by Mormon pioneers. Read More

  • Entrance to this industrial ghost town museum is $4
  • Information and tours of Iron Mission State Park are available from the on-site Visitor Center in Cedar City
  • There are two ¼-mile long interpretive trails
  • See the remains of a pioneer cabin, kiln, furnace, grinding stone and foundry area

Overview

The early settlers in Utah needed iron and eventually deposits were found at Cedar City. Mormon pioneers were sent to create a colony and an ironworks in the 1850s at Coal Creek/Iron Town near Cedar City.

The Old Iron Town Ruins are an example of the many ghost towns scattered around Utah. Although initially it prospered with a schoolhouse, foundry, blacksmith shop and a charcoal kiln, it was forced to close in 1858. It was abandoned and left to slowly decay. Guided walks and lectures are offered along with art exhibits and craft demonstrations. See historic cabins, horse-drawn carriages and agricultural equipment on display along with the town bell.

Location and Information

Located within the city limits of Cedar City.

Contact the Visitor Center and Frontier Homestead State Park Museum at 435-586-9290 or Visit their website.

Museum Hours

  • June to August: Open 9am to 6pm daily
  • September to May: Open 9am to 5pm Mon - Sat
  • Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day

Entrance Fees

  • Day Visits: $4 per person
  • Annual passes $75, available at the museum

Facilities

  • Rest rooms
  • Picnic area
  • There are no campgrounds on the site

Walking Trails

  • Old Iron Town Ruins - ¼ mile long trail with interpretive plaques explaining about the ruins, kiln, furnace, grinding stone and foundry area.
  • Nature Trail - ¼ mile long trail around Iron Mission includes the remains of a pioneer cabin with interpretive plaques explaining about the area’s vegetation.

Fun Facts

Formerly known as Iron Mission State Park Museum.