There is incredible hiking in Southern Utah and these are my top 5 favorite hikes in Saint George!
Saint George is home to some of the most beautiful red rock in the world. With National Parks like Zion and Bryce next door, and Snow Canyon State Park in its backyard, Saint George is filled with hidden gems and spectacular hiking just minutes from I-15.
Because there is so much to do and see in the area, I’ve narrowed my list down to hikes I feel will give all ages and skill levels a proper introduction to the potential in the area.
Chuckwalla Trail - 2 miles
In my opinion, this trail is a pretty solid introduction into desert hiking. Chuckwalla is a short, well maintained trail with a great reward at the end.
Getting there: The Chuckwalla trail is located in the Red Cliffs National Conservation area, just north of Bluff Street and Sunset Boulevard. It’s a quick 10-15 minute drive if you’re staying in Washington, Santa Clara, Leeds, or Ivin’s and can be easily tagged onto any itinerary.
Trailhead: Parking at this trailhead is right off the road and there is no fee associated. Also, if you’d like to lengthen your adventure, there is a climbing wall and a variety of other loops to explore.
Hiking: This is a 2 mile out and back trail to the arch. The trail is very exposed and sandy and is best hiked in spring and fall. If you are hiking in the summer, be sure to bring sun protection and lots of water as there is very little shade along the trail. There are no cliff edges or drop-offs, so it is a great hike for children and families.
Lava Tube Trail - 2 miles
The Lava Tube Trail is located in Snow Canyon State Park (see the full post about Snow Canyon here) like no other hike I’ve ever done. The trail is about .75 miles out and back above ground and about .25 miles underground. Photos don’t do this hike justice – the hike out to the tube is surrounded by stunning views of Snow Canyon State Park. Once you enter the cave, there are tight turns that open up at the end to a sparkly playground filled with boulders and pathways – perfect for a game of hide and seek.
Ability Level: Entering the cave is a bit steep, but once inside, it is easy to maneuver. You will want a flashlight when first entering the cave, but your eyes will adjust quite quickly to the darkness. There is some scrambling and crouching inside, and it does get tight in some areas, but never where more than a squat is required. I would recommend doing this hike with someone who feels comfortable lifting if doing with children.
Getting there: This hike is located in the Ivin’s area of Saint George in Snow Canyon State Park. There is a $15 fee to enter the park, or you can purchase an annual Utah state park pass for $100 if you plan to visit other state parks throughout the year.
Parking: There is a lot located at the trailhead that is well-marked.
Bonus: If you are already in the park and would like to make the most of your time, Jenny’s Canyon, Johnson Canyon Trail, the Overlook Trail, and the Petrified Dunes Trails are great trails nearby to check out during your visit!
Red Reef Trail - 2 miles
The Reef Reef Trail has become an iconic spot for visitors of Saint George. At just 2 miles and with a waterfall and rope feature, it’s a great bang for your hiking buck.
Getting there: The trail is located in the Cottonwood Forest Wilderness. There is a campsite near the parking area and a white historical building that you will pass on your way in. There is a $5 fee to pay to park and parking goes quick in the summer months, so plan to arrive early or stay late if you plan to do this hike.
Hiking: This hike is great for all ability levels and can be completed in a couple of hours. During the spring months and time when there is heavy runoff, there is a beautiful waterfall near the beginning of the trail. A rope feature is available to cross the water and may be crowded depending on the time of day.
There is great picnicking by a river near the trailhead. We snagged a table following our hike to eat sandwiches and play games in the shade by the riverside. It’s a great place to make home base for the day!
Pioneer Park and Sugarloaf Loop - 1 mile
Pioneer Park is a can’t-miss destination while in Saint George that can be enjoyed by all ages. Somewhat of a playground / hike crossover, tight slots, short tubes, and lots of caves make for a great afternoon exploring. The full loop explores surrounding Red Rock in the area but you can stick around the slots at the beginning of the hike.
Getting there: Pioneer Park is located near Dixie Rock. There is picnicking and climbing in the area as well. There is no charge to park and plenty of parking on a weekday afternoon. Weekends and holidays get busy so be sure to arrive at off-peak times of the day.
Hiking: This hike can be as much or as little hiking as you would like it to be. The full loop is a little over a mile, but if you choose to stay in the slot area, there’s a ton of fun to be head in a .25 mile radius.
Elephant Arch - 4 miles
Elephant Arch is a fun out and back trail that features an arch and plenty of beautiful red rock scenery along the way. The arch at the end has the shape of an elephant’s trunk and is surrounded by beautiful red rock hoodoos. The base of the arch can be climbed to with moderate skill level and climbing ability.
Getting there: The trailhead is located about a mile down a dirt road. We did not need a high-clearance vehicle in February when we took the road, but conditions may be subject to change during wetter months. It is free to park – the parking lot is small and many people park along the roadside.
Hiking: The trail is mostly flat with some rolling hills and little shade along the trail. We recommend packing water as there is very little shade and the trail is exposed. We’ve enjoyed this trail in the early spring and late fall time, and would recommend leaving early in the day or later in the evening if you are doing the trail during summer months.
What are some of your favorite hikes in Saint George? Let us know in the comments what we should add to our list!