St. Thomas Ghost Town

Once a thriving Mormon settlement in the 1860s, this quiet historic site now stands as a testament to resilience and change, where crumbling foundations and old stone walls sit amid open desert - making it a perfect stop for history buffs, explorers, and photographers alike.

Adventure Type: Self-guided historical walk.
Surface: Firm sand and compact dirt.
Difficulty: Easy, suitable for all ages.
Best Time to Visit: Fall through spring when temperatures are mild.

St. Thomas was abandoned in the 1930s as water from the rising reservoir engulfed the town’s streets and homesteads. Today, when lake levels drop, the ruins reappear - scattered foundations, stone remnants, and the outlines of long-lost homes offer a hauntingly beautiful window into the past. Interpretive signs dot the site, bringing to life the stories of early settlers, traders, and families who once called this place home.

Hours of Use: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
Parking and Facilities: Parking is available at marked pull-outs along the access road. It is a dirt road to the trailhead, which is passable for AWD + most regular cars with normal clearance, but it’s a bit bumpy in spots. There are no developed visitor facilities, so come prepared.
Permits & Fees: Standard recreation pass is required for vehicle entry into Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Are Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash.

What to Bring:
- Water and sun protection
- A camera to capture scenic ruins and desert views
- A hat and layers for changing weather

While visiting, please follow the Dirt Road Code.