We didn’t get to spend a lot of time in St. George – this was our port to Zion and the surrounding area, aka we flew in and flew out of St. George. After being here for a short time, it is definitely a place I would like to return! Here are a few things we did do around the area:
Red Reef Trail – 2.2 Miles, out and back. Moderate*
*I only say moderate because of a few sections that require some balance and some scrambling skills but otherwise easy. Also, the distance you can go on the trail will be determined by the amount of water.
Getting there – Easy 19 mile drive from St. George. You will drive into a little park and there is a $5 day-use fee that will get you right by the trailhead. There is no fee in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, however.
Path and Scenery – The trail boasts stunning views of red rock formations, lush cottonwood trees, and serene canyon landscapes. It features a mix of shaded and sunny sections, offering a blend of picturesque scenery and adventurous pathways.
Trail Conditions – Trail conditions vary greatly depending on the season:
*Wet Season (Spring): Running water and higher chances of flooded or obstructed paths.
*Dry Season (Summer/Fall): Limited to no water in creek beds or waterfalls. Path can be dusty or muddy with slippery rocks in some sections.
Crowds – we went in the evening and only saw a few people. If you have the ability to do a little climbing/scrambling and have balance, this is a fun little trail.
Snow Canyon State Park
We just did a few “stop and get out and walk” kind of hikes. Didn’t do any “hiking” technically as we didn’t have time. I don’t particularly feel this should be a destination, but it was a nice drive and fun to stop and get out now and then.
Getting There – A quick 15 minute drive from St. George. There is a $15 per vehicle fee for non-residents of Utah. $10 if you are a resident.
Best Trails –
- 1 – Scout Cave Trail – 3.4 miles
- 2 – Butterfly, Lava Flow Overlook, West Canyon, Petrified Dunes Loop – 3 miles
- 3 – Snow Canyon – 3.5 miles
- 4 – Lava Tubes via Lava Flow Trail – 2.6 Miles
- 5 – Turtle Wall and Paradise Rim Loop – 3.8 miles
About the Park –
Snow Canyon State Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a hidden gem known for its stunning red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, ancient lava flows, and breathtaking desert landscapes. This 7,400-acre park offers a serene escape into nature, with towering canyon walls and unique geological formations shaped by volcanic activity and erosion over millions of years. It’s a part of the larger Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, which protects diverse flora and fauna, including the threatened desert tortoise.
Visitors to Snow Canyon can explore over 38 miles of trails that cater to all levels of hiking and biking enthusiasts. Highlights include lava tubes, sand dunes, and panoramic views of the surrounding desert. The park is also rich in history, with evidence of Ancestral Puebloan and Southern Paiute use, and it even served as a filming location for classic Hollywood westerns. Perfect for a day trip or longer stay, Snow Canyon State Park provides picnic areas, campsites, and ample opportunities for photography and adventure.
Grit and Grind Coffee
We had an hour or so to kill before needing to be at the airport so of course I wanted to stop for some coffee but didn’t want to hit a chain coffee store. It’s more fun to partake of the local fare. We somehow stumbled upon this place and I’m glad we did!
It is not really a coffee shop but more of a coffee trailer in the parking lot of a working farm- so it was very unique to say the least! There are tables and a bench for you to sit and stay a bit if you desire. The owners of the farm were really nice to us and offered to show us around as well.