St. George is often considered to be a hub of bustling outdoor activity, unparalleled scenic beauty, and wonder for area visitors. Most of the region’s most popular state and national parks are not much more than a hop, skip, and a few miles in any direction. While several state parks practically sit in the backyard of the Ledges of St. George, a few others are worth the long drive. Extra-determined travelers may visit some of the locations on the same day.
Zion National Park
Within an hour of travel time and 42 miles, Ledges visitors can make their way to Zion National Park. One of the nation’s most visited national parks, Zion is a southwest Utah nature preserve noted by its steep red cliffs. While there are miles of trails to hike for visitors of all skill sets and ages, there are alternative options for viewing the park.
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive moves through its main section, leading to forest trails along the Virgin River. The river flows to the Emerald Pools, which have waterfalls and a hanging garden. Another one of the park’s most well-known adventures is the Zion Narrows wading hike. This hike sits along the edge of the river and partly moves through deep chasms.
Zion is open to visitors all year, but some services like the shuttle and campgrounds remain closed during the winter months except for the holiday weeks. The visitor center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during operational months. The summer monsoon season takes place from July through September and can occasionally feature flashing flooding, which can be dangerous for visitors. Guests should visit the Zion National Park website to get an idea of the conditions ahead prior to travel.
Zion also features many places to shop, eat, museums, and even a giant screen movie theater.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Red Rocks, pink cliffs, and endless vistas are some of the sights at Bryce Canyon National Park. Recognized for its Hoodoos (irregular columns of rock), high elevations and other geological wonders, visitors can see it all even within the first few miles of the park.
The scenic viewpoints are up for exploration along the 18-mile stretch of road through the park. The road begins at the park’s entrance and travels north along the plateau rim to the highest elevations in the park – reaching over 9,000 ft.
A shuttle service operates from April to October to accommodate the busier season for visitors.
This national park is further than most of the other national and state parks located in the Southern Utah region. That may not be a deterrent for visitors with only a 2.5-hour drive (149 miles) from the Ledges of St. George.
Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim)
For Ledges visitors that aren’t afraid of a further drive to reach majestic sights, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park sits at about 3 hours and 154 miles away.
The park remains closed during the winter months because of snow impeding safe travel for visitors. It is generally open by Mid May through the middle of October along with its lodgings, campground and visitor center and dining options.
The hike across the canyon from the south to the norm rims of the Grand Canyon National Park is 21 miles long. A drive from rim to rim by vehicle is about 4.5 hours and 220 miles.
For those planning on sticking to the North Rim to see sights from over 8000 ft high, the Bright Angel Point is the best place to start. It’s a quick walk from the main parking area and is wheelchair accessible. There is a paved .5 mile (round trip) trail that leads out on the ridge of the Bright Angel Point. Keep in mind the trail is steep and has drop-offs. For some, the risk is worth the reward for the dramatic views into the Roaring Springs and Bright Angel Canyons.
State Parks:
Snow Canyon State Park
Looking for a state park that is only a handful of miles away from the Ledges? Check out the Snow Canyon State Park. With trails and dunes available to explore on foot, bike and horseback, you can also take a night to camp out in the park’s campground surrounded by ancient lava flows and red Navajo sandstone.
Operating hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The park remains open year-round.
Sand Hollow State Park
Looking for an adventure in rocks and in the water, Sand Hollow State Park is an option for those who enjoy finding a way to cool off outside in the high Southern Utah summer temperatures. The blue water hits a sharp contrast against the red sandstone landscape. You can boat, fish and swim at the reservoir. Off-highway vehicles and RV’s are also welcome at the state park and its beach.
Sand Hollow is located about 34 minutes and 35 miles away from the Ledges.
Quail Creek State Park
Another close option featuring water activities is the Quail Creek State Park located 25 miles from the Ledges. Boasting some of the warmest waters in Utah, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating and hiking at the reservoir and in the surrounding state park. Â The park is open year-round, but boat ramp hours change depending on the time of year.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
If you’re looking for a different kind of experience, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes are an adventure all its own. Made up of a shifting landscape of red and pink sand, the sand moves in waves like a desert ocean. The sand dunes are a popular location for off-road vehicles, as well as hiking, exploration, and photography. The campground is open year-round.
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are located about 70 miles (1 hour and 25-minute drive) from The Ledges.
Sources:
https://www.myutahparks.com/, NPS.gov, grandcanyon.com, stateparks.utah.gov