Cisco

Cisco is a great little place with a true ghost town feel. The town started as a watering stop for the railroad's steam engines in the 1880's. As work crews and travelers came through, stores, hotels, and restaurants sprang up to accommodate them. Nearby, cattle ranchers and sheep herders in the Book Cliffs north of town began using Cisco as a livestock and provisioning center. Around the turn of the century, over 100,000 sheep were sheared there before being shipped to market. Then oil and natural gas were discovered. For a while Cisco was the largest producer in Utah.  Later, a declining economy crashed when I-70 came through and by-passed Cisco altogether.

Many old buildings still stand in the area. However, a word of warning - the man who owns the property still lives across the road from the town site.  He is very protective of his land. But he doesn't mind people taking pictures from the road.

To find Cisco, head 17 miles east from the small town of Thompson. Take exit 202 and head east about 5 miles. Shortly after you cross the railroad tracks, you will see the town site.

4 stars.