Cliff Dwellers

Lodge History

Learn about the history of the Cliffdwellers Lodge.

Small Trading post

In the beginning

After crossing the Colorado River by ferry, Blanche and Bill Russell, the original homesteaders at Cliff Dwellers, established a small trading post here in 1920. Their original home still stands at the end of the property. The pair established camp next to Soap Creek where they constructed the unique rock house next to Soap Creek and the unique rock house for which the community received its name. The cowboys who drove cattle on the AZ Strip called the Russell homestead “Cliff Dwellers” because of its proximity to the Vermilion Cliffs.

Captivated by the blazing red Vermilion Cliffs and seemingly endless blue skies, it’s no wonder settlers chose to homestead in such an inimitable environment. The Arizona Strip, with its isolation and solitude, offered a unique way of life for travelers seeking the freedom the American West offered.

from Lees Ferry

River trips

In 1943, new owners Art Greene Sr. and his family ran trips from Lees Ferry upriver to Navajo Bridge with Greene running the 60-mile trip in a 450-horsepower Everglades fan boat. His boat burned 30 gallons of fuel per hour and it took him three days to reach the natural bridge. Those early river operations were primitive at best. He took every other trip up river solely to stash fuel reserves. The Greene family continued to manage the trading post at the rock house until they expanded their operation and built the original lodge at Cliff Dwellers.

More about Lees Ferry

Where we are today

Cliff Dwellers Lodge Established

Today, we operate Cliff Dwellers Lodge and Lees Ferry Anglers in the same spirit, providing food and a place to stay for travelers heading to the Kaibab Plateau. And our guided fishing trips take adventure-seekers into the same spectacular reaches of the Colorado River in which Art Greene ran his guide operation. The canyons have since become a destination for families and vacationers alike.

Or Call: (928) 355-2261

Outdoor Outfitters

Stop By THe General Store

Whether you're refueling, gearing up with outdoor apparel, grabbing a cold drink, or stocking up on food, fishing supplies, and general merchandise—our store has everything you need for the journey ahead. Visit General Store