An Old Movie Set
Paria Townsite, Kanab Utah
Howdy!
In our final stop while visiting the Kanab, UT area, we decided on the suggestion of another to venture out into what is called the Paria Townsite; also spelled Pahreah.
There is a sign at the parking area off of 89, the highway between Kanab, UT and Page, AZ. It says the site was founded in 1865 by Peter Shirts. They vacated the site only a few years later because they were constantly being raided and attacked by Indians.
In 1870, under the direction of William Meeks the town was re-settled upstream some. Churches, schools and support buildings were erected. Meeks was a presiding elder of the Mormon church system at the time. Those darn Mormons sure did a LOT of exploring and settling out here!
They found significant success in the region for a number of years. Farming and ranching became the mainstay and progress was being made. However, constant flooding (I assume during spring rains) pushed everyone out.
Years later, in the 1960s, movie sets were built and a number of movies, even some television shows were filmed in the area. That is, until floods also, from what I have read, made it too difficult to continually manage.
In 2006, arsonists made their way to the old movie sets and burned them to the ground. A few historical societies, along with volunteers have made efforts to rebuild the buildings for the public to enjoy, but they are not the originals.
Sun Sets Across the River Bed in Paria Townsite
On our way to the location, we were in awe of the magnificence. I was heavily struck with “we should be setting up the RV out here”.
The farther in you venture (about 5 miles to the “end of the line” and the actual townsite) the more surrounded you are by wonderfully unique formations in the rock and the buildup of dirt, clay, and red colors.
A number of the buttes at sunset begin to glow with magentas, purples, rich blues and pinks. Deep reds and corals are also present.
Colors Begin to Erupt as the Drama of The Sunset Begins at Paria Townsite
I can say, without abandon, I will most certainly head back that way when I am in the location again. While we had a great sunset in the region, and I was able to get stellar photos, the area is ripe for a multi day stay to do video and photography. I regret we didn’t stay longer.
In fact, on our way in, we noted another Winnebago Micro Minnie (non FLX) model camper set up for boondocking.
We certainly will be doing that on our way back through.
My advice to anyone doing so, however, is…make sure you have everything you need when you get out there. Water filled, grey and black tanks emptied. Have plenty of supplies and food.
The road to this location is almost exactly mid way between Kanab and Page. It heads north east off the parking lot into which you must turn to access the area. The turn is right off highway 89. Meaning, the closest spot for fuel, food, water, and amenities will be a distance to travel.
The Blue Hour is on it’s Way at the Paria Townsite in Utah
But yes, in the future upon our return, we will most certainly spend 3 to 5 days hiking and photographing the area.
Related to the flooding, I can absolutely see how that would have been an issue. The land and drive in continues to go lower and lower. It’s like a funnel of sorts. The creek there was actually full and running and we were there in the “dry” season. I can’t imagine how robust that river could become during rains.
Blue Hour Light in Full swing Brings out the glorious Paria Townsite Colors
AND like all of the other areas that are more remote in this Coyote Buttes area, make sure you check your weather. Should it rain if you are in there all the way, the roads will get pretty sticky with that Utah red clay. It may strand you should it be wet and rainy.
I hope you enjoy the photography. Happy you’re here with us.
rob out
