Old Fort Deseret is a fascinating historical landmark of Mormon pioneer history and the only remaining example of the many adobe forts built in Utah. This well-known fort measures approximately 300’ x 400’ and offers a unique glimpse into the pioneering spirit of the 19th century. Fort Deseret promises an exciting stop filled with learning, exploration, and a memorable experience perfect for pioneer history buffs, families, and adventure seekers.
About Fort Deseret
In 1865, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hastily constructed Fort Deseret in just 18 days as a refuge during the Utah Black Hawk War. The war began when a drunk Mormon settler pulled a Ute chieftain from his horse during a dispute over cattle rustling. In retaliation, a young Ute Indian named Black Hawk killed five Mormons and escaped with hundreds of cattle. The Utes, along with the Navajo and Paiute tribes, joined forces to steal cattle from the Mormons.
During the conflict, Mormon settlers began posting guards to protect their livestock. In desperation, they sent word to their leader, President Brigham Young, who authorized the construction of the fort. To encourage swift construction, a contest was held among the men. The winning team was promised a supper and a dance, while the losing team had to provide the food and entertainment.
How It Was Made
The walls of Old Fort Deseret, made from a mixture of mud and straw, demonstrate the resourcefulness and resilience of the early pioneers. The mixture was created by plowing a trench, adding water and straw, and having oxen, women, and children tromp the mixture.
The walls were 10 feet high, 3 feet wide at the base, and 1.5 feet wide at the top, resting on a lava rock foundation. The fort measured 550 feet square and featured bastions at the northeast and southeast corners and portholes for viewing each side. Although the fort was never attacked, it served as a nightly shelter for the settlers’ livestock.
What’s Left Today
Today, visitors to Fort Deseret can explore the remains of the perimeter walls and restored structures to get a feel for life in the 19th-century Wild West. Informative plaques and displays provide insights into the fort’s history and the challenges its builders faced. A monument, erected in 1937 using stones furnished by the descendants of the fort’s builders, stands on the site to commemorate this remarkable piece of history.
How to Get There
GPS COORDINATES:
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39.264852° N, 112.653817° W |
If you’re heading to Fort Deseret from Delta:
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Go west on US 50 toward Ely, Nevada. |
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Continue for 5 miles and turn left onto UT-257. |
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Stay on this road for 4.5 miles until you reach milepost 64.7. |
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The fort will be visible on the right side of the road to the west. |
What to expect & how to prepare
Be prepared for a self-guided walking tour of the fort. For your convenience and enjoyment, informative signs and displays throughout the site provide historical context and details about the fort’s construction and significance.
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What to bring: Comfortable footwear is recommended, as you’ll be exploring uneven ground and historic structures. Hats, sunscreen, and water are recommended in the summer, while layered clothing will be needed for cooler months. Bring your camera to capture the picturesque scenery surrounding the fort itself! |
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Amenities: There are no restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly. However, there is a picnic table in the parking area, so feel free to pack a picnic and enjoy a meal in the scenic surroundings. |
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Cost: Free |
Please do not climb on the walls or allow your children to do so. This unique piece of Utah history is our responsibility to preserve for future generations.
BEST TIMES TO VISIT
The fort is accessible year-round and offers a different experience in each season. The best time to visit Fort Deseret is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer visits are also popular but be prepared for hotter temperatures. Winter visits can be quieter, providing a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and photography.
