When you go to visit Zion National Park, you’re bound to spend some time in St. George. If so what is there to see in St. George, Utah you ask? My simple response would be, what do you like? There are so many options and things available in St. George to see and do. From art galleries, to bike paths, to hiking and swimming. And if you’re feeling really adventurous you’ll easily find many tours like the Zion ATV tour we just took with our family.
What’s Within an Hour?
Boating and Fishing
There are so many options for lakes when visiting southern Utah. Within one hour you can find over 10, which is quite extraordinary considering the desert climate. Some of these are Sand Hollow Reservoir that is a popular spot for those who like sandy beaches or wake boarding. You can also rent kayaks! Kolob Reservoir, Gunlock Reservoir, and Quail Creek are all popular areas for those who may want to spend some quiet time relaxing with a fishing pole.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is a big sport in southern Utah due to the vast amounts of trails available that cut through breathtaking terrain. A popular trail is the one on Gooseberry Mesa. Here is a video that highlights the trail.
Camping
If you want to spend an evening out under the stars, you won’t be in short supply of campgrounds near St. George. There are campgrounds at Sand Hollow, Quail Creek, and Gunlock reservoirs for those who want to be near the water. For those looking for something more mountainous there is the nearby Snow Canyon State Park or Red Cliffs Recreation Area. Here is a stunning photo we found of Snow Canyon State Park.
Photo Credit: Christopher Mooney on 500px.com
For those who may want to stick closer to town there are various RV/Campgrounds to choose from within St. George city limits.
ATV Trails
One of my favorite places that is often overlooked is Warner Valley. It can be found slightly east of St George and is an open area for camping and ATV riding. The red cliffs to the north, flanked by the towering peaks of Pine Valley paint a picture of inspiration as you contemplate how wonderful the small things in this world really are. We spent a lot of time taking a Rhino tour out there, zipping through those trails with that view truly made for a great day.
Hiking
If it’s hiking you’re after then look no further than Zion National Park. There are easy hikes for everyone (including children) and there are technical canyon hikes for only those with the proper gear and knowledge with how to traverse them. One of the easiest and most rewarding hikes found in Zion is the Overlook trail.
Golfing
St. George is also quite famous for its beautiful golf courses. We might be a little bias, but we think that Southern Utah has some of the most amazing scenery to pair with these golf courses. To prove our point, here is a picture that was taken from a sand pit at Sand Hollow Resort.
Photo Credit: NikonKnight on flickr
City Life
When you come to town make certain you see which festivals are currently in town. One of my favorites is the Easter art show help in downtown St. George in their magnificent park that sites right next to the tabernacle. You’ll see amazing art from all over the southwest, from incredibly talented artists. They’ll have live music and food to keep you company as well.
The stunning setting of southern Utah offers much to those looking for adventure and beauty. The changing landscapes offer a variety that is unmatched almost anywhere in the world. From the stunning red rocks, to the towering black peaks of the Pine Valley Mountains. Desert sagebrush, to the mountain lakes aspens and pines of Cedar Mountain and Duck Creek. Pair that with the activities and adventures that are available to you, and you are guaranteed a vacation you will never forget!