About this city
Also known as: Melon Capital of the World
Green River is a historic riverfront city situated in rural Emery County, located in southeastern Utah at the vital junction of Interstate 70 and the mighty Green River. Initially established in the late 1870s as a crucial river crossing and mail relay station for the overland stagecoach, it expanded rapidly with the arrival of the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad in 1883. Celebrated globally for its sweet, locally grown melons and its historic role as the launching point for early Colorado River expeditions—including Major John Wesley Powell's legendary surveys—the city serves today as a major oasis and rafting capital in the harsh, arid San Rafael Swell region.
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Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Embark on an epic multi-day wilderness rafting expedition through the towering stone walls of Labyrinth Canyon. Learn about river running history and view historic watercraft at the John Wesley Powell River History Museum. Take a snapshot with the giant 'World's Largest Watermelon' monument, or admire ancient Fremont rock art at the nearby Sego Canyon.
