St. George is located in the southwestern Utah and is surrounded by stunning red rock formations, rolling hills, sandstone canyons, and ancient volcanic fields. This region was initially known as Utah’s Dixie due to its warm climate, cotton cultivation, and other vegetation. However, as time passed, St. George evolved into a modern city – yet still retains its small-town charm.
Reader's Roadmap
St. George, Utah – The Perfect Destination for Outdoor Adventure
From its historic downtown area, ancient oasis, sandy deserts, and nearby National Parks – there’s nothing quite like the beauty of St. George, Utah. You could spend days, weeks, or even months exploring this area and still need to see it all. And, for those thrill-seekers out there looking for an exciting outdoor adventure – extreme sports, desert exploration, high-octane activities, and picturesque landscapes are awaiting your arrival.
However, plan your trip carefully, as the desert is unpredictable – days can be hot and sunny or cold and windy. Bring plenty of water, food, a flashlight, and protective gear such as hats and long sleeves.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or things to do for adventurous adults, the possibilities are endless. Consider this list of activities to make sure you make the most of your trip:
1. Go Hiking on the Incredible Trails
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice, there are plenty of hikes in St. George suitable for all levels. The pine-filled Red Cliffs Recreation Area is a popular spot for hikers, as it features multiple easy to complex trails – including the Anasazi Trail and Pioneer Hills Trail.
Besides, the Cholla Trail and Enepitsi Trail, located in Santa Clara River Reserve, are also excellent options for those looking for a challenge. The place has a desert landscape of sandstone cliffs, open spaces, and wildlife. You can explore flora and fauna of this area with a guided hike or take on the challenge and explore the trails solo.
Paradise Canyon is another excellent area for hiking, with stunning views and challenging trails like Chuckwalla Trail, which takes you through steep canyon walls, deep sandstone canyons, and various desert terrain. You’ll spot roaming wildlife in this area, including hawks, coyotes, bighorn sheep, and even some wild horses that roam the area.
2. Take a Dip in the Refreshing Swimming Holes
There’s nothing quite like a refreshing dip in crystal-clear swimming holes surrounded by red sandstone landscapes and breathtaking views. St. George, Utah, is home to several great swimming holes, including Sand Hollow State Park, which features a calm oasis in the heart of the desert. Take a dip in an inviting pool surrounded by towering red sandstone walls and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.
Quail Creek State Park is another excellent place to swim and relax. The park has rocky caverns, secluded swimming holes, and a large lake. The water is calm and inviting, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day. Practice different swimming styles and strokes in this tranquil and secluded spot.
For those looking for a more adventurous swim option, Snow Canyon State Park is the place to go. The park offers some of the best and most challenging swimming holes in the state, with locations ranging from waterfalls to deep canyons.
3. Take an Off-Road Tour
Take a break from the beaten path and explore the desert in an off-road vehicle. Off-road tours give you access to inaccessible areas by foot, giving you a unique vantage point of the landscape. It also takes you down artistic slots, desert canyons, and dunes, introducing you to some of the most breathtaking views in Southern Utah.
There are various routes, from mild to wild, so you can pick the journey that best suits your level of adventure. Ride an ATV, jeep, or dune buggy to explore the sprawling landscape and find hidden gems like petrified wood, fossils, waterfalls, and natural hot springs. All while you take in the spectacular views of red-rock formations and deep valleys. The off-road tour will provide an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after your trip.
4. Go Skydiving
Imagine the feeling of freefalling from 10,000 feet in the air at top speeds of up to 120 mph! Skydiving in Southern Utah offers the ultimate experience for thrill-seekers. It is the perfect way to take in the breathtaking landscape views below, from snow-capped peaks to ancient canyons, red rocks, and lush green forests.
Feel the adrenaline rush as you prepare to jump out of the aircraft and experience a few seconds of weightlessness before your parachute opens up, allowing you to glide back to the ground. As you savor these moments of peaceful serenity and take in the beauty of nature, you will be sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
The best sites in St. George, Utah, for skydiving include the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, Zion National Park, and the Arizona Strip. Each location offers a unique view and will make you feel like you are in a different world.
5. Zipline Across the Monstrous Green Valley Gap
Ziplining is an adrenaline-filled activity that allows you to soar through the air over stunning landscapes and forests. St. George, Utah, is home to the world-famous Green Valley Gap, which boasts some of the most spectacular views in the state. The zipline is over 800 feet long and takes you over a deep ravine, giving you an unforgettable experience and views of the mountains and canyons below.
The natural wonders you will experience while ziplining are second to none. However, you must climb a couple of hundred feet up the side of a mountain before you can even access the zipline. Once at the top, you can take in the breathtaking views and prepare for a thrilling ride.
6. Go Rock Climbing
If there’s any sport to test your physical and mental limits, then its rock climbing. The activity involves getting up and down the face of a cliff or mountain using particular equipment and techniques. It can be a very challenging activity, but the rewards are immense. From feeling a sense of accomplishment to enjoying stunning views, rock climbing can be an intensely gratifying experience.
St. George boasts several excellent rock climbing sites, perfect for first-timers and experienced climbers. These multi-pitch routes range from easy scrambles to more technical climbs that require knowledge of belaying and anchoring. Make sure you know all the rock climbing techniques, proper safety measures, and the basics of equipment setup before attempting any rock climbing activity to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion:
St. George, Utah, is the ultimate destination for thrill seekers looking to pump up their adrenaline. From extreme off-roading adventures and incredible hikes through the desert to ziplining and rock climbing, there are plenty of activities to enjoy the great outdoors and satisfy your need for thrills. You can also dip in the refreshing swimming holes or go skydiving for a bird’s eye view of the city and its sights.
Remember to bring the essentials – like water, food, a flashlight, and protective clothing – and take the time to plan your adventure. With careful preparation, you’ll have a truly unforgettable experience in St. George that you’ll never forget.