Ghost Town in Southern Utah | Motoqua

🧭 EXPLORE SOUTHERN UTAH

Motoqua
Ghost Town

Amidst the vast expanse of Utah’s wilderness lies Motoqua, a ghost town shrouded in mystery and nostalgia.

Once a bustling community teeming with life and vitality, Motoqua now stands as a silent testament to the passage of time, its abandoned structures whispering tales of bygone days.

As the winds of history continue to sweep through its deserted streets, let us embark on a journey to unravel the enigmatic charm of Motoqua.

A Glimpse into History

Located in the heart of Washington County, Motoqua emerged in the late 19th century as a hub for coal mining and agriculture.

Named after a Native American term meaning “sweet water,” Motoqua flourished as settlers flocked to the region in search of prosperity.

At its peak, the town boasted a school, post office, and several businesses, serving as a vibrant center of community life.

However, as the coal industry waned and economic fortunes shifted, Motoqua’s once-thriving streets gradually fell silent, eventually succumbing to the inexorable grip of abandonment.

The D.I. Ranch

The D.I. Ranch was acquired about 1954 by reputed mobster Moe Dalitz. Its name was derived from the Desert Inn in Las Vegas which Dalitz owned.

The ranch was used as a vacation spot for Dalitz and his family. But it reportedly was also used to discreetly entertain Las Vegas showgirls, high-rolling customers, prostitutes, bodyguards and other assorted Vegas characters.

There was a small dirt airstrip built on the ranch to make travel more convenient than over the rough dirt road.

The ranch has passed hands several times throughout the years.

Now, Various groups have claimed religious significance of the property.

Preserving the Past

Despite its desolate state, Motoqua holds a special place in the hearts of locals and historians alike.

Efforts to preserve the town’s heritage are ongoing, with initiatives aimed at documenting its history and protecting its remaining structures.

Through their collective efforts, Motoqua continues to captivate the imagination of all who are drawn to its haunting beauty.

A Journey into the Unknown

As we visit Motoqua, let us carry with us the memories of its storied past. Though time may have rendered it a ghost town, Motoqua’s spirit lives on in the hearts of those who cherish its memory.

In the quiet solitude of its abandoned streets, we find not only a testament to the resilience of the human spirit but also a reminder of the fleeting nature of existence.

So, as we venture forth into the unknown, let us never forget the echoes of Motoqua, whispering softly on the winds of time.

How To Get There

From St. George, UT, take Bluff street to Sunset Drive. Turn left and follow Sunset through Santa Clara.

The road turns into Old Highway 91 towards Shivwits and the Paiute Reservation.

Take a right on Gunlock Road, and follow until you reach Motoqua Road then take a left. Follow Motoqua Road 25 miles until you reach the river.

Conclusion

Discovering Motoqua sparks an interest in other ghost towns scattered across the rugged terrain of Southern Utah. Consider visiting other nearby ghost towns such as Old Iron Town, Silver Reef, Frisco and Grafton.

Visiting these ghost towns not only enriches one’s understanding of Utah’s history but also fosters a profound connection with the pioneers who shaped the region’s identity. Embarking on this historical journey promises to be both enlightening and humbling, weaving together the threads of the past with the present-day landscape of Southern Utah.

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