3 Amazing Hikes In Southern Utah!
Walking on smooth rock, pushing myself to go further up with little breath left, stopping, peering into the sky, with some clouds floating around, but not enough to threaten a downpour, I grasped the large hand of my husband, climbing up the last bit of a rocky, scramble area. My heart leaps as we almost ascend to the top, with joy ready to explode as we yet reach another summit.
Hiking in southern Utah is a stunning experience, with gorgeous scenery all around, plenty of hiking trails to choose from, and you if like the color of red or rust, you will mostly likely have an excellent experience!
There are so many hiking trails to choose from, however, I will narrow it down to 3 and maybe do another story about other hiking trails that did not make this list, although equally as good. These trails are easy to moderate, with plenty of scenery to inhale and sometimes a challenge or two. Ready? Lets go!
The Bowl, The Vortex: I think, hands down, this was my FAVORITE! It was such a gorgeous day, with puffy clouds, nary a breeze, but only when you needed it and sometimes it felt like the sun was kissing our skin as we climbed up and up! Typical desert fare of vegetation, low shrubs and interesting shaped trees, and walking on pure rock all the way up and down. If it just rained and is not flooded, it would be a perfect time to capture puddles in the low spots with plenty of reflections. You will be met on top with lots of “directional” rocks to indicate you are in the right spot! Just follow the footprints if you get lost, but basically just go to the top.
Length: 2.3 miles
Elevation gain: 524 feet
Type of trail: Out and back (you walk to the top, walk around the loop and go back the same way you came.
Level: Moderate
Gunlock Slot Loop: This is located in Gunlock State Park with a minimal fee (worth it) for a day pass, plus this is little bit outside of St. George, Utah. Gorgeous, gorgeous place to visit, with a quiet lake to fish and simple water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking and scenery 360 degrees! There are some hills to get your adrenaline going and an area to visit slot canyons. But I couple I must say: download a map, like from All Trails, or your favorite hiking map and watch for rain. We did get lost so had to climb some hills to find out where to go. The trails are not well marked and our rock buddies were not on display to show us the way. This place could flood so always check the weather before you go. Despite getting lost, we had a most excellent time and still do recommend it!
Length: 2.1 miles
Elevation gain: 200 feet
Type of trail: Somewhat of a loop, or an out and back trail, or a lost trail, depending how you go!
Level: Easy
Snow Canyon Trail: Another great trail in a state park, Snow Canyon State Park, right in St. George, Utah, very scenic with lots of red or rust (again with the same color!), with some soft sand and hard rock to walk on. It is fee based as a lot of state parks are, but in my opinion it is worth it, especially if you stay for a good amount of time. A very popular area to hike and bicycle in (mostly throughout the park), you can also climb some hills and have nice views of the park. There is a part you can climb very high up, using built in steps dug into the rock. Excellent views!
Length: 3.5 miles
Elevation gain: 495 feet
Type of trail: Loop
Level: Moderate
These trails are NOT strenuous or very hard to do. We just do not do those type of trails. However, hiking can be very pleasurable, an experience only you can do. Plus think of all the photos you can get when hiking and lots of memories! These places will get HOT in the summer, so always check the weather service. We only hiked these trails in the fall, but spring time can be good as well.
So if you find yourself in the St. George, Utah area, I would HIGHLY recommend checking out their hiking scene. So much outdoor recreational to do in the beautiful state of Utah!