Kiz, Utah

Kiz is a ghost town located in Grand County, Utah, United States. It was situated approximately 25 miles southwest of Moab. The community was established in the early 20th century as a uranium mining settlement. The name "Kiz" is of obscure origin and its exact meaning is unknown, though local lore suggests it may be a shortening of a longer, forgotten name or a nickname.

The area surrounding Kiz was known for uranium deposits, and several small mines operated in the vicinity. The town provided services and housing for the miners and their families. At its peak, Kiz consisted of a small collection of houses, a general store, and possibly a schoolhouse, though detailed records are scarce.

The uranium boom in the region was short-lived. As demand decreased and more accessible deposits were discovered elsewhere, the mines around Kiz became uneconomical. The town was gradually abandoned, and by the mid-20th century, it was largely deserted.

Today, little remains of Kiz. Foundations and scattered debris mark the location of the former settlement. It serves as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of mining towns and the boom-and-bust cycles that characterize many communities in the American West. Due to its remote location and the lack of preserved structures, Kiz receives few visitors. Its history is primarily documented in local historical accounts and oral traditions.