Robbers Roost facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robbers Roost, Utah
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Hideout
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The Robbers Roost was a secret hiding place in southeastern Utah. It was used by famous outlaws like Butch Cassidy and his group, the Wild Bunch. They used it during the last years of the Old West.
What Was Robbers Roost?
Robbers Roost was a special hideout for outlaws. It was a very hard place to find. The land around it was rough and wild. This made it easy for the gang to defend themselves. It was also very difficult for lawmen to get into the area without being seen.
A Perfect Hiding Spot
The gang used Robbers Roost to rest and stay hidden. They would often stay there for a month or more. This was especially true after they had committed a robbery. It was here that Elzy Lay and Butch Cassidy first formed the Wild Bunch gang.
The Wild Bunch, led by Cassidy and Elzy Lay, had friends in Utah. These friends helped them get fresh horses and food. Two sisters, Ann Bassett and Josie Bassett, owned a ranch and helped the gang. The outlaws even built cabins at Robbers Roost. These cabins helped them stay safe during the cold winters. They also kept weapons, horses, chickens, and cattle there.
Keeping the Secret
Lawmen of that time never found the hideout. The outlaws kept its location a very strict secret. Only five women are known to have ever visited Robbers Roost. These were Ann and Josie Bassett, Sundance Kid's girlfriend Etta Place, one of Elzy Lay's girlfriends Maude Davis, and gang member Laura Bullion.
A writer named Charlie Siringo wrote about Robbers Roost. He said it was "fifty miles east of Hanksville." He also wrote that the Wild Bunch used it as their main base for many years.
Robbers Roost Today
The area around Robbers Roost is still wild. A remote part of the Dirty Devil River is called Robbers Roost Canyon. It is named after this famous hideout.
Today, Robbers Roost is a popular place for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy hiking and backpacking there. Horseback riders and all-terrain vehicle fans also visit. There are also many steep and narrow slot canyons. These are popular with people who enjoy technical canyoneering.
