Tucked away from the bustling crowds that flock to the nation’s more famous landmarks, southern Utah is often described as a hidden gem. Yet an array of breathtaking landscapes rewards the people who venture to this less-trodden path. This region is a treasure of natural wonders and opportunities for adventure. Before visiting this marvelous destination, take note of these must-have experiences that southern Utah has to offer.
Watch the Sunset at Sand Hollow State Park
Sand Hollow State Park isn’t just a haven for water sports and off-roading; it’s also one of the most picturesque places in southern Utah to watch the sunset. The park’s unique combination of red sandstone cliffs, azure waters, and vast desert landscapes creates a perfect backdrop for the evening sky’s changing colors.
Your group can take a guided tour via UTV for a thrilling adventure and then stop at the perfect location for a calming evening to witness the sun dipping below the horizon. You’ll be in awe of the sky’s transformation into a canvas of fiery oranges, soft pinks, and deep purples.
Hike at Yellow Rock Trail in Kanab
It’s impossible to visit southern Utah without embarking on a hiking trail. Yellow Rock Trail is a moderately challenging hike that spans 2.5 miles one way. It treats adventurers to expansive views of colorful sandstone formations, sweeping desert vistas, and deep-blue skies that seem almost too vivid to be real.
The hike begins with a series of switchbacks leading up to a broad plateau that offers the first glimpse of Yellow Rock’s extraordinary hues. The trail is well-marked in places, but hikers should also be prepared for stretches where navigation relies more on cairns and the natural lay of the land.
The summit of the hike presents a panoramic view of the Paria River Valley, the Vermilion Cliffs, and even the distant Bryce Canyon on clear days. The combination of the stunning natural landscape and the quiet allure of the desert makes Yellow Rock Trail a must-have experience.
Backpack in Cedar Breaks National Monument
Cedar Breaks National Monument offers a unique backpacking experience for people seeking solitude amid high-alpine scenery. Perched at over 10,000 feet in elevation, this hidden gem is renowned for its deep amphitheater of strikingly colored rock formations, sprawling meadows of wildflowers in full bloom during the summer months, and ancient bristlecone pines that have withstood the test of time.
Backpacking in Cedar Breaks is an immersive experience, allowing adventurers to spend nights under a tapestry of stars. The monument’s backcountry trails, such as Rattlesnake Creek Trail and Spectra Point Trail, promise breathtaking vistas and the chance to encounter local wildlife, including mule deer, mountain lions, and numerous bird species.
Go Fishing at Quail Creek State Park
Quail Creek State Park is a prime destination in southern Utah for anglers seeking both scenic beauty and the thrill of the catch. Nestled just a few miles from the red-rock landscape of Zion National Park, Quail Creek boasts some of the warmest waters in the state for a comfortable year-round fishing spot.
The reservoir is teeming with largemouth bass, rainbow trout, bluegill, and crappie, offering a varied fishing experience whether you’re casting from the shore or venturing out on a boat. Despite its popularity, the expansive waters of Quail Creek ensure that it rarely feels crowded, providing a serene environment to enjoy the sport. With its convenient boat ramps, accessible fishing docks, and the availability of fishing gear rentals nearby, Quail Creek caters to novice anglers and seasoned pros alike.
This is a headerJet Ski at Sand Hollow State Park
If you find the waters of southern Utah fascinating, you won’t want to miss out on the must-have experience of jet skiing! Sand Hollow State Park is a thrilling destination for water-sports enthusiasts. The reservoir features striking red sandstone landscapes and crystal-clear blue waters ready for jet skiers of all skill levels to explore. The sizeable area ensures there’s ample room for everyone, from adrenaline-seekers executing swift maneuvers to families enjoying leisurely rides under the sunny skies.
Uncover The Wave at Vermilion Cliffs
The Wave at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a geological marvel. Photographers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts around the globe travel to see this breathtaking formation of undulating sandstone for themselves. Nestled on the Colorado Plateau near the Utah-Arizona border, this iconic landmark is named for its fluid, wave-like structure, with layers of Jurassic-age sandstone creating a surreal, dream-like landscape.
Keep in mind that this 6-mile round-trip voyage requires a permit to explore. It’s an adventure that demands preparation and respect for the natural environment. The hike to this famed spot isn’t marked, so adventurers must be able to make their ways through a challenging yet rewarding trek across rugged desert terrain.
Drive an ATV Along the Sand Mountain Mesa
Driving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) along the Sand Mountain Mesa stands out as one of southern Utah’s most exhilarating outdoor activities. Sand Mountain offers a playground of navigable dunes, rugged trails, and scenic vistas that are best explored behind the wheel of an ATV. This adventure caters to thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. It’s an unmatched opportunity to experience the desert’s raw beauty at a pace that ranges from leisurely to heart-pounding.
Southern Utah Adventure Center wants to ensure you make the most out of your trip to this extraordinary location. We offer ATV rentals in Hurricane, Utah, for individual or guided tours.
Hike to the Emerald Pools in Zion Canyon
Zion National Park offers an array of stunning hikes, but the trek to the Emerald Pools is particularly enchanting. This trail is accessible to hikers of all levels who want to witness the breathtaking waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering red cliffs, the lower, middle, and upper pools each offer distinct views and experiences.
The Lower Emerald Pool is the most accessible, making it a popular choice for families and people looking for a leisurely walk. The path becomes progressively more challenging as you ascend to the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools. Starting from the Zion Lodge, the trail to the Lower Emerald Pool is a relatively easy 1.2-mile round trip, while the entire loop to see all 3 pools covers about 3 miles and involves some rocky and steep sections. Visit in the spring or fall to enjoy moderate temperatures and vibrant views.
Southern Utah Adventure Center is a resource to encourage adventure and guarantee you have an incredible visit to this hidden gem. Visit our website to book ATV and boat experiences, guided tours, and more!
