Green River City is situated on the historical territory of the Ute people. The region was traversed by the Old Spanish Trail, a significant trade route from 1829 through the 1850s.

Initially, Green River developed as a crossing point for U.S. mail. By 1876, a ferry service and station managed by Mr. Blake facilitated the crossing of people and goods. The town evolved into a critical layover for those journeying through the region.

Now located midway between Richfield, Utah, and Grand Junction, Colorado, Green River serves travelers along Interstate 70, particularly as it’s a key stop with no other services for 107 miles westbound towards Salina. Its economy is supported by the hospitality and service industries, including lodging and dining facilities, and is enhanced by a significant natural gas field operated by Delta Petroleum.

Green River is also noted for its delicious melons and the celebratory Melon Days Festival held annually. Additionally, it’s recognized for its freeride mountain biking terrain. Notably, it features in two chapters of Stephen King‘s novel “The Stand” as a setting in a post-apocalyptic scenario.