St. George, Utah, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking hikes that take you through red rock canyons, desert landscapes, and unique geological formations. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to explore the outdoors, here are some of the most scenic trails in St. George that you won’t want to miss.
Snow Canyon State Park – Hidden Pinyon Trail
Length: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Snow Canyon’s Hidden Pinyon Trail offers an immersive experience in a red rock wonderland. This shorter hike is perfect for families or those looking for a relaxed pace while still enjoying stunning rock formations and desert flora. You’ll wind through colorful sandstone landscapes with captivating views of lava rock formations, petrified sand dunes, and desert plants like prickly pear cactus. For an added adventure, try visiting the nearby petrified dunes for incredible photo ops.
Petrified Dunes Trail
Length: 1.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Also located in Snow Canyon State Park, the Petrified Dunes Trail is a must-visit for any geology lover or photography enthusiast. The trail takes you over solidified sand dunes that look like waves of red and orange rock, carved by natural forces over millions of years. The gentle climbs and descents over the dunes allow for amazing panoramic views of the park, especially at sunrise or sunset when the colors seem to glow.
Red Cliffs Desert Reserve – Red Reef Trail
Length: 5.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
The Red Reef Trail is perfect for adventure seekers wanting to combine stunning landscapes with a bit of excitement. Starting at the Red Cliffs Campground, the trail takes you along the red rock canyon and even includes a few water crossings, so prepare to get your feet wet! Keep an eye out for the slot canyon section, which is a real highlight. This trail is especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom, adding pops of color against the red rock backdrop.
Chuckwalla Trail
Length: 1.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Located just a short drive from downtown St. George, the Chuckwalla Trail is a great choice for an accessible yet beautiful hike. The trail meanders along red sandstone cliffs and provides sweeping views of the valley and nearby mountains. It’s popular among locals for sunrise and sunset hikes, as the soft lighting amplifies the warm tones of the rock. The trail is also family-friendly and frequented by rock climbers, so you’ll likely see people scaling the nearby cliffs.
The Vortex (also known as the Bowl)
Length: 2.3 miles (round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate
For a unique hiking experience, head to the Vortex, an impressive natural rock bowl located near St. George. The trail involves a few steep sections and some rock scrambling, but the effort is well worth it. Once you arrive at the Vortex, you’ll be greeted by a massive sandstone bowl carved out by wind and water over time. It’s a popular photography spot and an amazing example of the area’s natural beauty.
Angel’s Landing (Zion National Park)
Length: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Although technically outside St. George, Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park is a bucket-list hike just a short drive away. This trail is for experienced hikers only, as it involves steep switchbacks, chain-assisted sections, and narrow ledges. However, the payoff is one of the most breathtaking views in all of Utah, with sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon. The adrenaline-filled trek to the summit is unforgettable, and it’s worth starting early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Cinder Cone Trail
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Cinder Cone Trail is a unique hike up a dormant volcano, giving you a view unlike any other in the area. Located near Snow Canyon, this trail ascends the cone’s slope, rewarding hikers with views of the lava flows and surrounding desert. While it’s a steep climb, reaching the summit and looking down into the crater is an incredible experience, and the surrounding red rock landscape provides a stunning contrast to the black volcanic rock.
Tips for Hiking in St. George:
- Bring Plenty of Water: The desert heat can be intense, especially in the summer. Carry enough water to stay hydrated.
- Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Check the Weather: Conditions can change quickly, so check for any rain forecasts, especially if you plan on hiking slot canyons where flash floods can occur.
- Leave No Trace: Help preserve the natural beauty by staying on marked trails and packing out all trash.
Whether you’re exploring the sandstone cliffs of Snow Canyon or the rugged beauty of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, St. George offers hiking trails that will leave you in awe. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to discover some of Utah’s most scenic trails!
