At the heart of the Spanish Fork Canyon, Utah County is the Thistle ghost town. Established in 1878, Thistle town's main economic activity was servicing of trains (mostly Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad trains). Years of success were taken down the drain when the town experienced a massive flood disaster that took it to extinction to date.

Hopes and dreams shattered

Town of Thistle was a train service depot for trains passing through the Canyon. When steamed trains were slowly replaced by diesel trains, activities in the town declined as trains no longer stopped at the town. Residents who were mostly railroad workers relocated to other towns leaving a population of fewer than 100 people. In 1983, the town experienced massive flooding when the Spanish Fork River got blocked, spilling water all over the town. The whole town was submerged in water. The few rescued residents were relocated elsewhere leaving the town deserted.

What is the current condition of the town?

A great number of buildings and homesteads are still submerged in water leaving only the roof which is still visible from a distance. The other buildings were damaged beyond repair leaving remains of concrete ruins standing in despair. The disheveled former bank of the town can still be seen with only the walls still standing. The roof and the rest of the building were all swept away by the ravaging water. 

Is Thistle town haunted?

During windy days, voices can be heard in the blowing wind. Splashing of footsteps on the stagnant water has also been reported by witnesses who have visited the old town. Thistle town is the creepiest abandoned town in the whole of Utah State.

Can one visit the town?

There are no restrictions to movement in and out of the old town. The general public is allowed to visit and take pictures of the now-forsaken town since it is government property, visiting or touring the town is free but your safety is entirely on you.