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  • Zion to Moab – An Incredible One Week Utah Road Trip

    If you’re wondering how to decide between visiting Zion National Park in southwestern Utah or Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in the Moab area, I have the solution for you – don’t! Instead, take a road trip from Zion to Moab to experience both of these incredible areas along with lots of other amazing stops in Utah along the way! With this itinerary that takes you from southwestern to eastern Utah, you can explore the spectacular slot canyons of The Narrows in Zion, stare at the spires in Bryce, hike along the creek in Capitol Reef, marvel at the many arch formations in Arches, and see the sunrise over the landscape of Canyonlands. Zion to Moab is truly the perfect road trip to get a taste of all that Utah has to offer! 7-Day Utah Road Trip Itinerary – Zion to Moab Here is a brief overview of an epic 7-day itinerary for a road trip from Zion to Moab: Day 1 : Fly into Las Vegas then drive to Zion & explore (2.5 hr drive) Spend 2 Nights in Zion Day 2: Hike The Narrows Day 3: Drive to Bryce & explore (2 hr drive) then head to Capitol Reef (2 hr drive) Spend 2 Nights in Capitol Reef Day 4:  Explore Capitol Reef Day 5:  Drive to Goblin Valley & explore (1.25 hr drive) then head to Moab (1 hr 40 min drive) Spend 2 Nights in Moab Day 6:  Explore Arches Day 7:   Sunrise at Canyonlands then hike to Corona Arch then fly home from Salt Lake City Note: Since this road trip takes you from western to eastern Utah, I recommend flying into Las Vegas and flying out of Salt Lake City. And this is the whole detailed itinerary to explore all the way across Utah from Zion to Moab. Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas then Drive to Zion & Explore 2.5 hour drive from Las Vegas Airport to Zion The closest major airport to Zion is Las Vegas is Las Vegas International Airport which is about a 2.5 hour drive from the park. For this Zion to Moab road trip, I recommend flying in the morning on your first day so you can drive to Zion, check into your hotel, and still have some time to enjoy in Zion National Park. Where to Stay in Zion While you will find tons of lodging options near Zion, my number one place to stay in Zion (especially with kids)  is Zion Wildflower. This resort is in a stellar location in the town of Virgin, UT just 15 mins from the Springdale entrance to Zion, and it’s situated on a hill with stunning views of the surrounding mesas. CLICK TO LEARN MORE Zion Wildflower  is a glamping destination with a variety of lodging options from charming bungalows to covered wagons to single-pole tents. Read more about why my kiddos and I loved our stay at Zion Wildflower so much here ! Evening East Zion After you settle into your lodging in Zion, head to the park itself and make a quick stop at the Visitor Center right inside the park entrance to get your bearings. Then drive through the Mt. Carmel Tunnel to East Zion. Park at one of the pullouts to hike along Clear Creek  for a bit, then make your way to Canyon Overlook  for a spectacular sunset from one of the  best views in Zion. Local tip : Rent your gear for The Narrows hike today at Zion Outfitter  before it closes, so don’t have to wait the next morning before you can hike. If you’re hiking in summer, all you need to rent is the boots and a walking stick, but in cooler seasons (especially April or October/November), you’ll need a full-body drysuit, special canyoneering shoes, and neoprene booties along with the walking stick. Day 2: Hike The Narrows in Zion This is your big day in Zion  for the famous Narrows hike plus another epic hike if you have the energy (or an easier one if you don’t). Morning The Narrows The Narrows in Zion National Park  is one of the most famous adventure hikes in the park, and it’s absolutely incredible! You’ll begin on the paved Riverside Walk to get to the start of The Narrows. Then you’ll wade in the Virgin River as you head up into the canyon. The walls close in, and soon you are surrounded by stunning 1,000 foot tall cliffs. You’ll want to wake up early to hike The Narrows first thing in the morning and beat the crowds. Pack your lunches and plan to get on the first Zion shuttle  if you can (if you’re visiting during shuttle season). If the water is running too high and conditions are unsafe, the park will close The Narrows. In that case, you could hike Riverside Walk , Scouts Lookout , or  Emerald Pools  instead. Evening Watchman or Pa’Rus Trail In the evening, you have a couple options to savor the rest of your time in Zion. If you have extra energy, I highly recommend hiking the Watchman Trail  for an incredible view from up on the cliffs down into the canyon below. It’s just over 3 miles round trip with nearly 500 feet of elevation gain.  For an easier excursion, you can walk the Pa'Rus Trail  which starts at the Visitor Center. The Pa’Rus Trail is a paved path running along the Virgin River that’s perfect for an evening stroll. Instead of hiking up The Watchman, you’ll get great views of this awesome rock formation from down below. Day 3: Drive to Bryce & Explore then Drive to Capitol Reef 2 hour drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon 2 hour drive from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef Day 3 of this Zion to Moab road trip involves a lot of driving but it’s broken up by some quality time in Bryce Canyon National Park. Morning/Afternoon Bryce Canyon Make the most of your one day in Bryce Canyon  with a few of my favorite hikes in the park. When you arrive in the area, stretch your legs on the short and easy 1-mile round trip Mossy Cave Trail hike that’s actually just outside the entrance to the park. The trailhead is just 5 minutes from the town of Tropic where you can grab a bite to eat before or after the hike (I recommend The Pizza Place!). Then make your way into Bryce Canyon National Park itself and go straight to Sunset Point. The views here are truly phenomenal!! Get in a little more hiking in on the Navajo Loop Trail , a 1.5 mile hike that takes you down to the canyon floor and back. Then it’s time to hit the road again to head to Capitol Reef, about 2 hours away! Where to Stay in Capitol Reef I love the cool atmosphere at Skyview Hotel  in the town of Torrey, just outside of Capitol Reef. Skyview features “design inspired by the destination,” and you can see that both in the artwork in the hotel and the views of the surrounding landscape from the property. We stayed in an excellent modern hotel room, but they also have luxurious glamping domes if that’s your vibe. Skyview is located close to town and places to eat, and it’s only a convenient 15 minute drive to get to Capitol Reef. Day 4: Explore Capitol Reef After all the driving yesterday, you’ll stay in one spot today to check out all that Capitol Reef National Park  has to offer. Morning Sulphur Creek Canyon Hike The Sulphur Creek Canyon hike is such a cool hike past three waterfalls! Until you hit Sulphur Creek, the trail is kind of dry and hot for about a mile, but from there, it gets a lot better. You’ll follow the stream all the way through the canyon with stunning rock cliffs all around you. Local tip: This hike is 6 miles one way, so you’ll either want to park an extra car for a shuttle if you’re with a group or try to hitch a ride back to the trailhead. Afternoon Burgers & Chill You’ll probably be pretty hungry after your hike, and you HAVE to go to the Capitol Burger Food Truck for lunch! I really can’t stress enough how amazing these burgers are, and they are definitely the perfect post-hike meal. If you need some down time from all the road trip adventures, Skyview has plenty of great spots to relax, both in the room and on the property. You could also take a scenic drive along Utah State Route 24 through the park, where you can stop at the historic Fruita Schoolhouse and cross the beautiful wooden boardwalk to see the petroglyphs. Evening Sunset at Goosenecks Overlook & Panorama Point For an absolutely stunning sunset with minimal hiking, head to Panorama Point, which is right off the road, or Goosenecks Overlook just a tenth of a mile down the trail. You can also hike just a little farther (0.3 miles one way) to Sunset Point to see a spectacular view of the Waterpocket Fold that makes up the Capitol Reef landscape. Day 5: Pit Stop in Goblin Valley then Drive to Moab 1 hour 15 min drive from Capitol Reef to Goblin Valley 1 hour 40 min drive from Goblin Valley to Moab This is another big driving day, but you’ll take a fun pit stop where you can explore (and the kiddos can run around) for a while. Morning Hike to Hickman Bridge For one last stop in Capitol Reef, enjoy the lovely hike to the Hickman Bridge natural arch. It’s just a 2-mile round trip so it’s a great quick morning hike before you hit the road again. Afternoon Pit Stop in Goblin Valley After your morning hike, head east from Capitol Reef and stop in Hanksville for lunch at Outlaw’s Roost. You can build your own tasty burritos, tacos, and rice bowls at this local Mexican spot. Then continue on to Goblin Valley State Park for a pit stop. We love Goblin Valley so much! It is literally a rock playground where you and the kiddos can spend a few hours running, climbing, and exploring to your heart's content. Just keep in mind that Goblin Valley will be super hot in the dead of summer. So if you’re taking this road trip in the summer, have plenty of water and plan to spend less time exploring. After this jam-packed day, make your way another hour and 40 mins to your final road trip destination of Moab. Where to Stay in Moab While there are tons of lodging options in the Moab area from camping to glamping to hotels, I stayed at Field Station Moab , and it was awesome. Field Station is designed for adventurers, and they offer a variety of rooms, including bunk bed rooms for bigger groups, plus posts for van lifers to park. They have a cafe and a gear shop on-site, and you can book fun tour experiences through them, too. For dinner in Moab, you have to check out the Moab Food Truck Park ! The 14 different food trucks offer something for everyone, from hot dogs to tacos to sushi to pizza…and, of course, ice cream and sweet treats for dessert. Day 6: Explore Arches National Park It’s finally time to visit Arches National Park and see all the amazing sandstone arch formations that give the park its name! Note: From April 1 to October 31, timed entry reservations  (along with your National Park entrance fee) are required to enter Arches from 7am-4pm each day. Not gonna lie, I’m not very good at planning in advance to get the timed entry tickets I want, so instead we woke up early to get in the park and see the sunrise. No timed entry pass is needed if you get in before 7am, and it was totally worth the early wake up. But before you head into Arches, make sure to get some breakfast and have plenty of snacks to eat on the go since you won’t find any concessions in the park. (So bring your water bottles, too!) Morning Scenic Drive Through Arches The best way to get the most bang for your buck in Arches National Park is to do a scenic drive and stop whenever an arch strikes your fancy. Most of the arches don’t require much of a hike to get to. ***North Window Arch ***South Window Arch ***Pine Tree Arch ***Devils Garden ***Dune Arch ***Landscape Arch ***Courthouse Towers In fact, you can see all of these arches in a morning because of short drive times and hiking times: Devils Garden Landscape Arch Pine Tree Arch Sand Dune Arch Courthouse Towers (the lookout here is so beautiful!) North Window South Window Turret Arch Afternoon Mill Creek Hike in Moab Mill Creek is an oasis in the desert, and I loved it so much! The short trail (around 2 miles round trip) leads you to a beautiful waterfall cascading down the sandstone cliffs into a pool you can jump in. It’s such a fun and easy waterfall hike, and I could have stayed here all day to enjoy it. Day 7: Sunrise in Canyonlands, Hike to Corona Arch, then Drive to Salt Lake City to Fly Home 3 hour 45 min drive from Moab to Salt Lake City Airport For the last day on your Zion to Moab road trip, it’s all about the views…including the sunrise, which is absolutely worth getting up early for! Morning Canyonlands for Sunrise Mesa Arch is one of the most iconic formations in Canyonlands, and the hike to the arch is easy at only half a mile round trip. Because of this, it gets pretty crowded, even first thing in the morning. But once the sun pops up over the horizon, and you see that amazing glow through the arch, you definitely won’t regret being there among the crowds. Dead Horse Point State Park Dead Horse Point State Park is a must-visit when in Moab, and you don’t have to do any hiking for the best view of the Colorado River curving through the multicolored sandstone buttes. Believe me, you’ll want to squeeze a visit to the stunning overlook here into your time in Moab because his view is the definition of breathtaking! Afternoon Hike to Corona Arch If you have any time and energy left before you head to the airport in Salt Lake City, then the hike to Corona Arch is a must. The 3-mile round trip trail takes you to a massive arch that stands out even among all the other arches in the area. Keep in mind that this hike has zero shade along the trail, so it is a hike that you need to do during milder temps (either early morning or cooler months). While we did this hike during the afternoon in late August, that was only because it was overcast and stormy that day so the sun and heat weren’t a concern. Evening Drive to Salt Lake City & Fly Home Finally, it’s time for your Zion to Moab road trip to come to an end. The closest major airport to Moab is Salt Lake City (about a 3 hour and 45 min drive), so I recommend flying home from there. Best Time of Year for This Utah Road Trip from Zion to Moab The best time of year for this Zion to Moab itinerary is from April to mid November. The temps in the spring and fall should be pleasant, but you might encounter rain or even snow early and late in the season.  If you are going in the heat of the summer (June, July, August), you will have to cut out some of these hikes during the heat of the day (the ones with water should be okay). In the summer, you should only hike early in the morning and later in the day because the temperatures mid-day can be extreme in the desert. Always bring more water with you than you think you could possibly need, and electrolytes or salty snacks are good, too. Packing List for Your Zion to Moab Road Trip Here are a few key things to bring on your Zion to Moab road trip so you can be comfortable while hiking and exploring across Utah: Light, breathable clothing Warmer layers if coming in April, October, or November Swimsuit (especially in summer) Hiking sandals, like Tevas or Chacos (I love my Tevas!) Hiking shoes Small day pack (to carry other things on the list) Water bottle Snacks Sunscreen Sun hat Sunglasses This obviously isn’t everything you’ll need, but just a quick rundown of some important things you don’t want to forget. Hope this itinerary inspires you to plan your own Southwest road trip to explore all the awesome destinations from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • Spectacular Fall Colors in Utah Near Zion – When & Where to See Autumn Foliage

    When you think of fall colors in Utah, the northern region near Salt Lake City might come to mind first with its mountains and cooler temps. However, while most people don’t think of southern Utah for fall colors, the desert definitely holds special fall magic with the background of the red rocks. As a photographer in Zion + Southern Utah, fall is an absolute dream! One of my very favorite things about fall in the desert is seeing the rabbitbrush  everywhere bloom with yellow flowers. This late-blooming plant brings beautiful color to the landscape of sandstone. The Best Time to See Fall Colors in Southern Utah The exact peak of fall colors in Utah varies slightly each year, depending on what the weather has been like that season. But I just love that you can find fall color in southern Utah starting at the end of September and going all the way to the middle and even end of November! The 10 Best Spots to See Fall Colors in Utah Near Zion Here are my favorite spots to find the fall colors in Utah in and around Zion: Kolob Terrace Kodachrome Basin Brian Head Duck Creek Pine Valley Kolob Canyons Kanab Area East Zion Zion Canyon Red Cliffs National Reserve The fall foliage at each of these places peak at different times, so you can see fall colors in Utah throughout the season whenever you’re exploring southern Utah . 1. Kolob Terrace Lambs Knoll in Kolob Terrace  is one of my favorite hidden gems with great views any time of year, but it is especially gorgeous in the fall. The vibrant colors of the foliage really add to the beauty of the area, and you’ll even see some bright oranges here which is unique for southern Utah. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO! You can also head all the way up the road to Kolob Reservoir to see even more amazing fall color. BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS The last week of September is typically best for catching fall colors in Kolob Canyon and the color typically lasts about 2 weeks. 2. Kodachrome Basin Kodachrome Basin State Park makes for a fantastic day trip from Zion . The park is filled with spires of multicolored sandstone, the stunning colors of which led the area to be named after the Kodak color film. In the fall, beautiful yellow flowers adorn the already vivid landscape. BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS The yellow flowers usually peak during mid-September in Kodachrome Basin. 3. Brian Head Although it might be best known for its ski resort, Brian Head is a year-round destination , and the fall colors are absolutely breathtaking. The groves of aspen in Brian Head turn gold and stand out against the evergreens and bristlecone pines. You can take a chairlift ride up the mountainside to see the fall colors in Utah from a bird's-eye perspective or take a hike through Cedar Breaks National Monument to see the colors up close. BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS Since Brian Head is at a higher elevation, you can usually find the best fall colors here the last week of September. 4. Duck Creek I love Duck Creek Village  and know it well, and its location in Dixie National Forest makes it an absolutely stunning location to see fall colors in Utah. You can get your fill of the foliage in the village and on nearby hikes, or you can take a scenic drive along the Markagunt High Plateau Scenic Byway to see a breathtaking variety of colors. BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS Duck Creek is also at higher elevation so fall colors are best the last week of September. 5. Pine Valley Pine Valley is also in Dixie National Forest, and here you’ll find golden aspens and other beautiful fall foliage ringing a lovely  reservoir with a backdrop of mountain peaks. Savor the fall colors while you fish on the reservoir or hike one of the trails through the valley. BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS The changing leaves in Pine Valley are usually peaking around the first week of October. 6. Kolob Canyons Kolob Canyons is a separate area of Zion National Park, north of the main entrance in Springdale , and you’ll probably find fall colors here slightly earlier in the fall than the rest of Zion. Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive  is an absolute must-do in autumn to see the fall foliage in full force in this stunning landscape of sandstone rock formations. BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS Fall colors come to this section of Zion around the second week of October. 7. Kanab Area I highly recommend visiting Kanab  when you’re in southern Utah, and this charming town is especially great in the fall with perfect temps and colorful foliage amid the desert sandstone. The drive from Orderville on the east side of Zion  to Kanab is especially stunning this time of year. BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS The rabbit brush starts to turn yellow around the beginning of October and around the end of October is typically the best time to see the fall leaves showcased in Kanab. 8. East Zion The east side of ZIon National Park is at a higher elevation than the main canyon area of the park, so the leaves change here just a little bit sooner. My favorite thing to do here in the fall is to meander along Clear Creek  to see all the beautiful fall colors. ***CLEAR CREEK FALL PHOTO SHOOT BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS Head to East Zion during the last week of October/first week of November for the highest chance of peak fall foliage. ***TEMPLE OF SINAWAVA ZION ELOPEMENT PHOTO SHOOT 9. Zion Canyon Of course, you can’t leave the central area of Zion National Park off this list of fall colors in Utah! The colors here come not just from the changing leaves, but also from the rabbitbrush blooming with fall flowers . One of my favorite Zion hikes  in the fall is the Pa’Rus Traill right at the entrance to the park. Along the Pa’Rus Trail,  you’ll encounter a ton of rabbitbrush that starts turning yellow at the beginning of October, and then changes to a creamy light tan color by the end of the month. It is so stunning!!! ***FALL FAMILY PHOTO SESSIONS AT THE PA'RUS TRAIL BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS The fall colors in Zion National Park typically start appearing around the first week of October when all the yellow flowers bloom. Around the first week of November, the leaves on the trees start turning yellow. 10. Red Cliffs National Reserve Red Reef Trail in the fall is spectacular because of all the cottonwood trees that turn yellow. It's also a great one to do late in the season. This is a hike that I take nearly everyone who visits Southern Utah on. This 3 mile hike is fun with or without kids. It boasts stunning red rock formations, arches, petroglyphs, a creek to play in, and a tree stump that looks like an elephant.  Red Cliffs National Reserve is part of the Bureau of Land Management and charges a small $5 day-use fee for access. You can also use your National Parks Pass for entrance.   BEST TIME TO SEE THE FALL COLORS The changing leaves along Red Reef trail are usually peaking around mid to end of November. Enjoy these destinations for gorgeous fall colors in Utah near Zion National Park! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • Road Trip to Great Basin National Park from Southern Utah

    Great Basin National Park is one of the least-visited national parks, but that makes it an amazing hidden gem. Great Basin is home to some of the oldest trees on earth, incredible limestone caves, and the second highest peak in Nevada. Many people don’t realize that Great Basin National Park is just 3 hours from southern Utah, but it offers an entirely different landscape to explore. Why Take a Road Trip to Great Basin National Park Taking a road trip from southern Utah  to Great Basin National Park is so much fun! Along the way, you can discover mining history, swim in a warm spring, wander through clay spires, tour a beautiful cave, go on some great hikes, and so much more. Best Time to Visit Great Basin National Park Great Basin National Park weather provides a great escape from the heat of southern Utah in the summer since it sits at higher elevation and is typically much cooler than Zion National Park and the surrounding areas. ​​We did our road trip in July, so while it was very warm at Cathedral Gorge (even at 9am), the temps at Great Basin were in the 70s and lovely. CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BOOKING A PHOTO SHOOT IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH I think a road trip in the spring or fall might be a little better for Cathedral Gorge, but you should be prepared that Great Basin will be quite cold during that time. The best time to visit Great Basin National Park and Cathedral Gorge would probably be early summer, like June, to avoid extreme weather in either park. Southern Utah to Great Basin Road Trip Itinerary This was the itinerary my kiddos and I took for our road trip from southern Utah to Great Basin National Park. It has a variety of adventures with a little something for everyone! Driving to Great Basin National Park from Southern Utah Great Basin is about 3-4 hours north of Zion National Park  just across the state border in Nevada. -If you are staying in St George or Hurricane the drive is 3 hours -If you are staying in Cedar City the drive is only 2hr 21 minutes NOTE: Utah is on Mountain Time, while Nevada is in the Pacific Time Zone, so the time in Great Basin is an hour behind the time in Zion. While it’s slightly faster to drive from Springdale  to Great Basin along UT-21, I prefer taking UT-56 and NV-319 to US-93 for a more interesting road trip. Here are the stops we made along the way: Road Trip Stop: Cathedral Gorge State Park (Nevada) The first stop on our road trip to Great Basin was Cathedral Gorge State Park in Nevada. It’s just around 1.5 - 2 hours to Cathedral Gorge, depending on exactly where you’re coming from in southern Utah. My kiddos and I absolutely love Cathedral Gorge! Cathedral Gorge is full of soft bentonite clay spires which were formed over a million years ago from a volcanic eruption. This surreal landscape of canvas-colored mud spires continues to erode and change shape every time it rains. It is such a cool spot to explore, and the kids love to run around here and exploring the unique clay formations. FAVORITE THINGS IN THE PARK -Moon Caves This is the first stop inside the park. Park here and explore to your hearts content. -Civillian Conservation Corps Water Tower Has some cool history and in a fun photo op. -Miller Point If you don't want to hike to Miller Point from the main section then make sure to make a stop on the way out of town. We love this lookout point with incredible views of the park and a beatiful wooden structure with benches and shade. Check out my full guide to Cathedral Gorge on the blog here ! Road Trip Stop: Panaca Warm Springs Just 10 minutes from Cathedral Gorge was our next road trip stop, Panaca Warm Springs. This was an interesting little place to visit, but don’t expect hot springs here! The springs are lukewarm (around 85 degrees), and the water felt quite nice on a hot summer day. On a cooler day, I’m sure it would feel a bit warmer. The water of Panaca Warm Springs is crystal clear, so you can see some pretty fish swimming around, although it was a little mossy, which my kids weren’t big fans of, haha. The springs are not super deep…about waist deep for me, and it seems like the water levels might vary during different times of the year. I think this would also be a great place to have a little car picnic during your road trip. There is some shade here, but no picnic tables. Road Trip Stop: Pioche, NV Instead of a picnic, we chose to go to the old mining town of Pioche  for lunch at the Historic Silver Cafe . Pioche is known as “Nevada’s liveliest ghost town,” and we found it super interesting (though perhaps a little creepy) walking the rundown main street. Pioche was founded as a silver mining town in 1868, the same year Nevada became a state, and it soon became the largest mining town in southeastern Nevada. As you stroll through the town’s historic sites, including an opera house, a theater, a hotel & saloon, and the Million Dollar Courthouse (now a museum), it’s fun to envision what life was like here when the town was booming. Things to Do in Great Basin National Park From Pioche, it was just under two hours to our road trip destination of Great Basin. I wish we had more time to check out all the things to do in Great Basin National Park , but here is what we were able to fit in during our short visit. Check Out the Visitor Center Great Basin National Park has a couple of visitor centers. There is one just outside the park entrance, but we went to the one inside the park at the end of the main entrance road. This visitor center is small but has several fun interactive exhibits that the kiddos enjoyed. You check in for your cave tour here, so we did that then went next door to the little cafe and gift shop to grab a snack and do a little shopping while we waited for our tour. Take a Tour of Lehman Caves Exploring Lehman Caves is at the top of the list of things to do in Great Basin National Park, but the only way to get into the caves is on a ranger-guided tour .  The tours are very popular, and tickets often sell out so you need to plan ahead. Lehman Cave tour tickets become available 30 days in advance on recreation.gov ,  and that’s when we purchased ours. Lehman Caves are an absolute must-see for a reason. The limestone caves are full of stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations, including more than 300 shields which are rare in other caves. Our guide was great, and the tour was fascinating. We really enjoyed our time in this beautiful cave. Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive To fully appreciate the landscape and get a fantastic perspective of Great Basin National Park, I highly recommend Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. We drove the road to Wheeler Peak, and it was an absolutely gorgeous drive along a mountain road in the South Snake Range. Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is 12 miles one way and gains over 4,000 feet of elevation as you end up above 10,000 feet. Along the way, you’ll see the flora change from sagebrush and pinyon pine to mountain mahogany, conifers, and aspens. There are many pull-outs along the way, including Mather Overlook, which features incredible views of Wheeler Peak. Hiking Great Basin National Park Sadly, we didn’t have time to do any hiking during our visit, and I really regret that! If you’re interested in hiking, Great Basin National Park has some amazing trails. Here are a few I’d like to check out next time I visit Great Basin: BRISTLECONE & GLACIER TRAIL If you only do one hike in Great Basin, this is the perfect trail to see some of the coolest attractions in the park. First you’ll hike to a grove of ancient bristlecone pine trees, which are some of the oldest trees on the planet. You can turn around here or continue on the base of the only active glacier in Nevada. ALPINE LAKES LOOP The Alpine Lakes Loop is an easy trail which passes both Teresa and Stella Lakes and offers breathtaking views of Wheeler Peak rising above. This is a popular trail, and you can combine it with the Bristlecone and Glacier Trail since they start from the same trailhead and partially overlap. BAKER CREEK LOOP This beautiful loop takes you along a creek through forests and open meadows with mountain views in the distance. If you hike Baker Creek Loop in spring and early summer, you’ll be treated to abundant wildflowers blooming in the meadows. WHEELER PEAK If you’re in great shape and seeking a summit, the strenuous hike up Wheeler Peak will take you to the top of the second highest mountain in Nevada at 13,065 feet. This is a very steep and exposed  trail with 3,100 feet of elevation gain, but if you’re an experienced hiker ready for the challenge, the summit views are stunning. Camping in Great Basin National Park There are several campgrounds in Great Basin National Park , and we camped at Upper Lehman campground. It is such a beautiful campground, and I wish I would have booked two nights so we could enjoy it longer (and that would have given us time to hike, too). We booked our site about a month in advance through recreation.gov . NOTE: In 2024, there are several infrastructure projects going on in Great Basin, so sites at Upper Lehman Campground, Lower Lehman Campground, and Wheeler Peak Campground are only available on a first-come/first-serve basis all year instead of being reservable in advance like they typically are during peak season in the park. A road trip from southern Utah to Great Basin National Park is such a great way to see so many interesting places, and I hope this post helps you hit the road to check it out yourself! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • The 9 Best Views in Zion National Park (That Don’t Require Hiking)

    Zion National Park is simply stunning, and while I highly recommend exploring the many hiking trails in the park, sometimes you just want a breathtaking view without a lot of effort. As an adventure photographer in Zion, trust me, I know all the best views in Zion National Park…including the most incredible views that don’t require any hiking! The 9 Best Views in Zion You Don’t Need to Hike To Here are the 9 best views in Zion National Park that you can see without hiking: Towers of the Virgin Viewing Deck Pa’Rus Trail Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive Kolob Terrace Meadow Lambs Knoll Guacamole Trailhead Canyon Junction Bridge Zion Canyon Shuttle East Zion Pull Outs These viewpoints are located in different areas of the park, so you can get amazing views of all the various sections of Zion…no hiking needed! 1. Towers of the Virgin Viewing Deck For a stunning view of the Towers of the Virgin, head to the viewing deck right behind the Zion Human History Museum. These incredible sandstone monoliths are some of the most iconic features of Zion, and you can see them in full glory from here with no need to hike. The covered deck has benches so you can sit and stay awhile to soak in one of the best views in Zion National Park. It’s a perfect spot to catch the sunrise or sunset in Zion , especially if you don’t want to worry about hiking in the dark. CLICK HER FOR MORE INFORMATION LOCATION The viewing deck is situated behind the Zion Human History Museum, which is located just about a mile inside the Springdale entrance to Zion National Park. There is plenty of parking at the museum. 2. Pa’Rus Trail The Pa’Rus Trail provides an amazing view of Watchman Mountain, another one of the famous rock formations in Zion. Walk along the short path from the Human History Museum to connect to the paved Pa’Rus Trail and gaze in awe at some of the best views in Zion National Park with the Watchman rising above. Okay, yes, you do have to walk just a little, but believe me, this is a short stroll, not an actual hike. LOCATION The Pa’Rus Trail  runs along the Virgin River from the Zion Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, but for the best view of The Watchman, I recommend the section of the trail right by the Human History Museum. 3. Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive One great way to get the best views in Zion National Park without hiking is by driving! While you can’t drive through the main canyon of Zion during peak season, you can head to the Kolob Canyons section of the park and take the scenic drive. This separate area of Zion is full of beautiful box canyons and sandstone cliffs, and Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive  runs for 5 miles from the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center along a ridge up to Kolob Canyons Viewpoint at the other end. Along the way you can stop at many overlooks to take in the views, and, of course, the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint showcases a fantastic perspective of the area. Note: Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive occasionally closes in the winter due to snow and ice. LOCATION The entrance to Kolob Canyons is off of I-15 at exit 40, approximately 45 mins north of the main Springdale entrance to Zion. 4. Kolob Terrace Meadow Kolob Terrace Road is a hidden gem that sits just outside the Zion National Park boundaries, so you can catch the views from here without the crowds. As you drive down the road, you’ll encounter many wide open meadows along Kolob Terrace with stunning views and beautiful red rocks in the distance. You can simply step out of your car and appreciate the views here. LOCATION Kolob Terrace Road runs from just outside the town of Virgin, UT around 25 miles up to Kolob Reservoir. 5. Lambs Knoll One of my favorite spots along Kolob Terrace Road is Lambs Knoll . It’s a popular spot for rock climbing, and you can take a short hike to the base of the rock if you like. But if you’re not interested in hiking, don’t worry! Right from the parking area, you can see the towering peaks in the distance and take in the panoramic views of Tabernacle Dome, West Temple, and the Guardian Angels and other landmark features. Near the dirt parking lot is a small covered picnic area that’s a perfect spot to have lunch with absolutely stellar views. LOCATION Starting from the town of Virgin, Lambs Knoll is located about 10 miles up Kolob Terrace Road. 6. Guacamole Trailhead While mountain bikers know this area as the start of the famous Guacamole Trail, I discovered this incredible view during a stay at Open Sky Zion  with my kiddos. As a photographer, believe me, I have seen a LOT of views of Zion but the view from the Guacamole Trailhead seriously blew me away. It is truly the most amazing view I have ever seen of Zion's West Temple mountain…and there is no hiking involved! LOCATION The Guacamole Trailhead is Just a short drive (less than 1/4 mile) above Open Sky Zion, near the town of Virgin. It’s about a half an hour drive from Springdale and the west entrance of ZIon. 7. Canyon Junction Bridge From the Canyon Junction Bridge, you’ll find one of the best views in Zion National Park of the Virgin River and The Watchman formation. Honestly, this view is truly iconic, and you shouldn’t miss it while visiting Zion! This spot is particularly stunning at sunset when The Watchman glows red while the curving Virgin River reflects the colors of the sky. This is a very popular place, but you can walk down to the river just below the bridge to get away from the crowds on the bridge and get another great perspective. LOCATION The Canyon Junction Bridge sits at the junction of Highway 9 and the road that goes into the main canyon of Zion. Just be aware that parking is quite limited here. 8. Zion Canyon Shuttle For a sightseeing tour of Zion National Park without having to walk at all, hop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle! This free shuttle runs through the main canyon of Zion, and is the only way to access the canyon during the busy season (typically from March to November) when private cars are not allowed on the road. It’s about a 45 minute ride from one end of the canyon to the other (an hour and a half round trip), so you can sit back and relax and enjoy the views along the way or hop out at any of the stops to take photos then hop back on the next shuttle. Be sure to check out my guide to the Zion Canyon Shuttle here  for everything you need to know! LOCATION The Zion Canyon Shuttle runs through the main canyon of Zion National Park, with the first stop at the Visitor Center and the final stop at the Temple of Sinawava. 9. East Zion Pull Offs Escape the crowds of the main canyon and head to East Zion for a different view! Drive along Route 9 on the east side of Zion National Park and simply stop at one of the many pull offs whenever you want to check out the beautiful views in this section of the park. I think some of the best spots to pull over start just east of the Canyon Overlook parking lot. The Many Pools Trailhead is also a good spot to stop. LOCATION East Zion is the area of the park on the east side of the Mt. Carmel Tunnel along Route 9. Hope this guide helps you explore all the best views in Zion National Park without hiking! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • 12 Amazing But Easy Hikes in Zion

    Sometimes you have to work hard for the most memorable views by hiking a steep trail to a summit or navigating difficult terrain. But an amazing thing about Zion National Park is that many of the easy hikes in Zion offer jaw-dropping views of amazing landscapes without too much effort. The 12 Best Easy Hikes in Zion Zion National Park is truly an incredible place, and you can see so much of it on short, easy trails. Here are my favorite easy hikes in Zion. These hikes are in order from easiest to a little less easy Pa'Rus Trail Riverside Walk Sand Bench Loop Lambs Knoll Clear Creek Timber Creek Overlook Canyon Overlook Emerald Pools Lower Pine Creek Falls The Watchman Trail The Narrows Taylor Creek Whether you have a limited amount of time or are wrangling a few kiddos, these easy hikes in Zion are great for just about anybody! 1. Pa’Rus Trail The Pa’Rus Trail is a classic easy Zion hike that is accessible for anyone and is stroller friendly. It runs right along the Virgin River, so it’s a beautiful walk, and you can take  little side paths down to splash around in the river if you want to cool off plus find solitude. LOCATION The trail starts right at the Zion Visitor Center and traces the Virgin River to the South Campground. It ends at Canyon Junction, where you can board the shuttle to go back to the visitor center. You can not go up the canyon from this shuttle stop. LENGTH The Pa’Rus Trail is about 3.5 miles out and back, and it’s   paved and fairly flat, so it’s a perfect intro to easy hikes in Zion. You can even bike it if you want! CLICK FOR MORE INFO TRAIL DETAILS I love the Pa’Rus Trail for a relaxing river stroll, and it offers amazing views of The Watchman rock formation, too. The paved path goes over a number of lovely bridges that cross the Virgin River, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take a break along the river and even dip your toes in. Learn more about biking the Pa'Rus Trail here ! 2. Riverside Walk Trail The Riverside Walk Trail is one of my favorite easy hikes in Zion because it takes you on a lovely stroll along the banks of the Virgin River. It’s a paved path with minimal elevation gain, so it’s fairly easy for strollers and wheelchairs to navigate this trail. LOCATION The trailhead for the Riverside Walk Trail is at the last shuttle stop in the canyon, Temple of Sinawava. LENGTH The Riverside Walk Trail is a 2 mile round trip hike from the parking lot to the start of The Narrows and back. TRAIL DETAILS Hike along the Virgin River with sheer red rock walls rising above you on the Riverside Walk Trail. Once you reach the start of The Narrows hike, you can turn around if you don’t want to get in the water. Instead of taking the same paved path back, you have the option to take a dirt trail that parallels the river which offers a change of scenery (and fewer crowds).  Check out my Riverside Walk Trail blog post here  for more details about this hike! 3. Sand Bench Loop Looking for an easy hike in Zion that is both beautiful and not crowded? The Sand Bench Loop is perfect for you! This trail features a lovely bridge, a horse corral, access to the virgin river, and views of gorgeous mountains. LOCATION The Sand Bench Loop is located at the Court of the Patriarchs (Stop #3) on the Zion shuttle. Cross the street to the river, walk past a horse stable and a watershed, then head to right across a beautiful bridge. LENGTH The Sand Bench Loop is 1.25 miles with very little elevation gain, but for the majority of the hike you are walking in fine, deep sand so that does make things a little harder. TRAIL DETAILS This short loop trail gives you beautiful up-close views of the Court of the Patriarch rock formations, and the little stream near the end of the hike is filled with tadpoles and frogs in the spring and summer. I highly recommend bringing a packed lunch and hanging out by the river for a bit in the afternoon or evening. The trail is also great for kiddos, with plenty of space for them to run and play in the sand.  Get all my advice for  hiking the Sand Bench Trail here ! 4. Lambs Knoll Lambs Knoll is a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path hike featuring a cluster of breathtaking rock formations and wide-open views. LOCATION Lambs Knoll is located about 10 miles up Kolob Terrace road (starting in Virgin), and half an hour west of Springdale. It sits on the edge of Zion National Park, but isn't technically in the park.  LENGTH It’s only about a .4-mile hike to the base of Lambs Knoll (0.8 miles round trip). The trail is mostly flat and sandy, so it’s an easy hike for most visitors. It’s a great spot to explore some of the cool rock formations in this desert landscape of southern Utah, and it’s a popular spot for rock climbing and canyoneering. TRAIL DETAILS You’ll start walking along a dirt path towards the jagged mountains. After reaching some thick brush, you will come to a fork in the path. You can head left on a short detour to an alcove of tall red rock cliffs, or keep going straight to another big rock wall that marks the end of the trail. If you want to explore a little more, you can head to the right at the wall and squeeze through a small, tight slot canyon. After you've had some fun in the canyon, turn around and go back the way you came. Get all the details about the Lambs Knoll hike here ! 5. Clear Creek Clear Creek is the main dry streambed which runs along Route 9 on the east side of Zion. You won’t find this hike on park maps, so it is excellent for some off the beaten path exploring.  The hike is full of  cave-like tunnels, easy slot canyons, and sandstone cliffs. LOCATION Clear Creek does not have a true start or end. When you drive along Route 9 on the northeast side of the park, you can spot the dry creek bed down below. Look for pull-offs all along the drive to pick a spot and go exploring.  I think the best spots to pull over are about a quarter mile east of the Canyon Overlook parking lot or at the Many Pools trailhead. LENGTH Once you make your way down into the dry stream bed, you can hike for as long – or short – as you like. The sand can be deep, and the path is pretty rocky, but it’s not too difficult since you can choose your own adventure. TRAIL DETAILS No matter where you start hiking, you will find surprises around every corner along Clear Creek. You’ll be hiking along a sandy, pebble-filled dry stream bed, and it will lead you to some short slot canyons and gorgeous red and black cliffs. You might also encounter a few tunnels that take you under Route 9. If you start from the Many Pools trail head, hike down to the dry streambed and you will reach a slot canyon if you go right and reach a slot canyon if you go left…..so fun and easy to explore! Find out more about exploring Clear Creek in my post here! 6. Timber Creek Overlook The views from the Timber Creek Overlook trail are absolutely stunning. This is the perfect easy Zion hike to experience the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Kolob Canyon.  LOCATION You’ll find the Timber Creek Overlook trail at the end of Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive, and it’s the cherry on top of the beautiful drive. LENGTH The Timber Creek Overlook hike is just 1 mile round trip on a mostly flat, sandy  trail with a few short rocky hills. TRAIL DETAILS This trail offers stunning views the whole way, but the panoramic perspective at the end of the Timber Creek Overlook  trail is absolutely jaw-dropping! The views of the rich red mountains and wild desert go on for miles and miles. If you make it there at sunset, it is especially spectacular. For more insider info about where to catch sunrises & sunsets in Zion, check out this post! 7. Canyon Overlook Canyon Overlook is a fantastic easy hike in Zion with lots of cool features along the way, but the main attraction is the overlook at the end, where you’ll be treated to one of the most epic views in Zion! Honestly, it kind of feels like cheating to get views like this on such an easy hike. The only downside is that the trail can get super busy, and parking can be extremely hard to find. LOCATION The trailhead is located just east of the Mt. Carmel Tunnel on the north side of the road, and there is a parking area across the road. LENGTH The Canyon Overlook hike is 1.25 mile round trip with just a bit of elevation gain. The trail is somewhat rocky with a few spots of deep sand. Although it’s overall considered an easy trail, if you are nervous about heights and drop offs, this might not be the hike for you. TRAIL DETAILS The is a really fun and short hike with lots of cool features like a half cave, a catwalk bridge, and even bighorn sheep sightings. It really packs a punch at the end with one of the most breathtaking views in the park. Definitely bring your camera for this hike! Canyon Overlook is a great spot to see the sunrise, and that also tends to be the best time to go to avoid the crowds. Check out my blog post here for even more about hiking Canyon Overlook! 8. Emerald Pools The hike to Emerald Pools is one of the classic and popular easy hikes in Zion. The trail takes you to a spectacular waterfall, especially if you catch it during a rainstorm when the falls are truly epic! LOCATION The Emerald Pools trail is  located in the main canyon, at the Zion Lodge (Stop #5 on the Zion shuttle) ***The trail is currently closed from The Lodge so you will start at the Kayenta trail on shuttle stop #6 The Grotto LENGTH The hike is 3 miles round trip all the way to the Upper Pool. You can also just go to the Middle Pool (2 miles round trip) or the Lower Pool (1.2 miles round trip). TRAIL DETAILS The easiest hike is to the Lower Pool which you reach via an accessible trail on a wide, paved path. It provides amazing views of Zion’s signature rock formations from within a green oasis. While the trail to the Middle Pool is also paved,  it heads up a ridge, so it is somewhat steeper. The views from up there over the dropoff into the canyon are excellent. The path to the Upper Pool is sandy and rocky, so it’s a little more difficult, but it is totally worth it! When the waterfalls are running, they will take your breath away, and the pool is surrounded by stunning cliffs. 9. Lower Pine Creek Falls I’ve added this hike to the list because it is short and incredible. This is easy for most hikers but if you are looking for paved paths or you don’t like rock scrambling and walking along exposed ledges then this isn’t the hike for you. I think Lower Pine Creek Falls is one of the funnest easy hikes in Zion. It’s  not actually advertised on park maps which  means it tends to be less crowded, so it’s an awesome trail to find some rare seclusion in the heart of Zion. LOCATION The trailhead for Lower Pine Creek Falls is about 1.5 miles north from the Zion Visitor Center along Route 9 on the way to the Mt. Carmel Tunnel. Look for a small paved parking area on your left just before the series of switchbacks that head up to the tunnel. You’ve gone too far if you go over a bridge. LENGTH This super short trail is only .7 miles round trip, but it’s a lot of fun even in that short distance. T o reach the pool and waterfall at the end, you need to do some stream hopping and boulder scrambling.. TRAIL DETAILS The trail to Lower Pine Creek Falls does start out easy to follow, but it becomes less defined the farther you get into the canyon, and  you’ll have to cross the stream a few times. After the first small pool you get to, you’ll have to start climbing up and over some rocks and boulders. But it’s totally worth the effort to get to the cool final pool, where you can rest and enjoy the waterfall from a lovely sandy beach. Find all my top tips for hiking Lower Pine Creek Falls here ! 10. The Narrows The Narrows is one of the most famous hikes in Zion, and it’s actually not too difficult as long as you don’t mind getting wet + walking slowly and carefully while navigating the rocks on the river bottom. This hike can be as short as you want it to be. Just walk up the river a little ways and then turn around. Note: The Narrows closes when water conditions get especially dangerous, so make sure to check the current conditions on the Zion NPS site . LOCATION For most of the year, you can only get to The Narrows via the Zion shuttle . After a scenic ride to the last stop on the shuttle, Temple Of Sinawava, you’ll need to hike about a mile on the Riverside Walk trail to reach the start of The Narrows. LENGTH The great thing about The Narrows is that you can turn around whenever you want. Big Springs is as far as  you can go without a permit, and it’s about 4.5 miles one way. Many people choose a shorter hike, and only to go to what’s known as Wall Street, which is 2.5 miles one way.  TRAIL DETAILS The Narrows is a unique hike, and, believe me, the views around every turn will take your breath away! You’ll be wading through the knee-deep water of the Virgin River for most of The Narrows hike, so it’s an excellent hike to beat the heat during summer in Zion .  After 2.5 miles of hiking,, you’ll enter the tightest section of the slot canyon, called Wall Street, which is a common turn around point. If you want to keep going, you can continue another couple miles to an area called Big Springs where waterfalls spout right out of the walls. You have to head back here unless you have a permit. Read my full guide to The Narrows  for more details on this easy hike in Zion! 11. The Watchman Trail I have Watchman Trail as one of the last on the list because it has the most elevation gain. If you are looking for something relatively flat, then this isn’t the trail for you. The Watchman Trail is often overshadowed by the iconic trails in Zion like Angels Landing  or The Narrows, and that’s a mistake. This trail is absolutely stunning with epic Zion views and an up-close perspective of the famous Watchman Mountain. LOCATION The hike begins right near the Springdale entrance to the park  at the Zion Visitor Center. Walk on the road toward Route 9 until you see the trailhead signage which is on the north side, on the Virgin River’s east bank. LENGTH The Watchman Trail is 3.3 miles round trip, and it does have some elevation gain of about 450 feet. The incline is gradual though, and the trail is easy to follow. TRAIL DETAILS The beginning of the trail hugs the river before you start hiking up into the hills. For a mile or so, the trail is moderately strenuous as you head uphill. Eventually, you’ll reach a beautiful view of the canyon with the Visitor Center below, Springdale off in the distance, and Watchman Peak in the south. You can then take a short loop trail for even more views off to the south before you head back down to the start. Check out this blog post for more info about the Watchman Trail! 12. Taylor Creek Taylor Creek is last on the list because it is the longest hike on the list and it does have some steep elevation change at the very end/start of the hike. The Taylor Creek hike gives you a chance to explore the Kolob Canyons area of Zion. The trail follows a creek lined with Navajo sandstone walls and lots of lush vegetation along the way and offers a little shade on a hot summer day. (Make sure to bring lots of water if you are doing this one in the summer) LOCATION Taylor Creek is located in the Kolob Canyons district, which is on the north side of Zion National Park. The entrance to this area of the park is off of  I-15 (exit 40).  Taylor Creek starts from the first trailhead you come across along the scenic drive into Kolob Canyons. LENGTH The Taylor Creek trail is 5.5  miles round trip. The hike starts with a short but steep descent (which you also have to go back up at the end), but the rest of the trail is flat and fairly easy to navigate.. TRAIL DETAILS The Taylor Creek trail takes you past two historic homestead cabins from the 1930s.  You can peek in the windows to get a sense of what life was like for the settlers who lived out here a long time ago. The trail continues past the cabins along the creek until you reach the massive Double Arch Alcove. The double arches are not the typical open arches you find in the desert, but more like an arched cave set in the sandstone wall with seeping water and lovely green ferns. The Double Arch marks the end of the trail, so it’s a great place to have a little picnic lunch or snack before heading back. Find out more about this hike in my Taylor Creek post here ! Enjoy your visit to Zion National Park and southwestern Utah with one (or several!) of these incredible easy hikes in Zion! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • 15 Refreshing Swimming Holes in Utah (Beat the Heat in Southern Utah)

    When you’re seeking an oasis during the heat of a dry desert summer, check out one of these awesome swimming holes in southern Utah. From lakes to rivers to waterfalls, these refreshing spots are where you want to go to cool off during your desert adventures. Splash In These Swimming Holes in Southern Utah Here’s a list of my favorite swimming holes in southern Utah, where I love to escape for a break from the heat. Sheeps Bridge Park (aka Falls Park) Fire Lake/Ivins Reservoir Babylon Arch Swimming Hole Lower Pine Creek Falls Sand Hollow State Park Confluence Park Quail Creek State Park Toquerville Falls Pa’Rus Trail Gunlock Reservoir Virgin River Skimboard Park Navajo Lake Lake at The Hills Lake Powell Jackson Flat Reservoir I’ve included all my local insider tips for these swimming holes in Utah, so you can choose the perfect one – or more! – for you to explore. Many of these spots are free to access, but I’ve noted the ones which have entry fees. 1. Sheeps Bridge Park (aka Falls Park) - Virgin, UT Sheeps Bridge Park , also known as Falls Park, is truly one of the best swimming holes near Zion. You can do a little (mild) cliff jumping here, and the kids will love tubing down this section of the Virgin River. It’s also a very sandy area, so bring the sand toys to have some fun on the beach, too. Local tip: From the end of June through July, you’ll find that this spot is full of tiny baby frogs! GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 2. Fire Lake/Ivins Reservoir - Ivins, UT Fire Lake is a beautiful place to enjoy the water with views of the famous red sandstone of the desert and stunning views of Snow Canyon State Park in the distance.. A few years ago, the Ivins Reservoir was transformed into this regional recreational site, which features clean bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, a pergola, and grassy fields for the whole family to enjoy. You can kayak, canoe, tube, swim, and even fish in the lake, or just relax on the beach. It’s really an awesome spot to spend a day! GOOGLE DIRECTIONS CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BOOKING A SHOOT WHILE VISITING ZION NP + SOUTHERN UTAH 3. Babylon Swimming Hole - Leeds, UT Deep in the desert near Leeds, UT, drive a windy dirt road to a hidden gem of a swimming hole on the Virgin River. Along with the sandy shore and deep patches for swimming, you’ll also find sandstone cliffs you can climb up and then jump in the water from. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you to stay hydrated while you’re enjoying the beach. And watch out – the deep sand surrounding the river in this little area gets really hot in the summer, so be sure to protect your feet. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS LOCAL TIP: The dirt road to the trailhead is a little rough in sections and the sand can get pretty deep, I would highly recommend a 4WD vehicle so you don’t have to worry about getting stuck. 4. Lower Pine Creek Falls - Zion National Park This place is seriously one of my favorite swimming holes in Southern Utah…I just love Lower Pine Creek Falls ! This spot is a bit of a secret in Zion National Park, since the park doesn’t advertise it, so it’s extra special because it’s more secluded. Stream hopping and boulder scrambling on the short trail will take you to a couple pools and a waterfall with a nice sandy beach. You can even jump from the little cliffs into the water…it’s so fun! Fees: You’ll need to pay the $35 entry fee/vehicle for Zion or have an annual National Parks pass. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 5. Sand Hollow State Park - Hurricane, UT The reservoir at Sand Hollow State Park is the perfect place to spend a day enjoying the water with a beautiful backdrop of red rocks. Everyone can get in on the fun, from playing in the sand to swimming to watersports. Sand Hollow Reservoir is a super popular sport for cliff jumping, with beginner to advanced cliffs. Find out more details about cliff jumping and exploring the lake in my full blog post about visiting Sand Hollow State Park . Fees: It costs $15 (weekdays) or $20 (Fri-Sun) per vehicle for residents ($20-$25 for non-residents) to enter Sand Hollow State Park, or you can use a Utah State Parks pass. Increased weekend fees apply from March through October. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 6. Confluence Park - Hurricane, UT Confluence Park is a 344 acre sanctuary in La Verkin, with a trail that runs along the Virgin River where you can find two swimming holes. One of the spots you can swim is about a ¾ mile hike from the La Verkin trailhead, while the other is right below The Dwellings. Enjoy a sandy beach, picnic tables, and even a rope swing here! Local tip: Confluence Park sits in a gorge below The Dwellings , which I highly recommend for lodging in La Verkin. If you stay at The Dwellings, you even get your own dedicated access point to the park. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 7. Quail Creek State Park - Hurricane, UT At Quail Creek State Park, you’ll find a spectacular reservoir where you can soak in the water all day long. A lot of improvements have been made at the reservoir over the past few years, and now you’ll find plenty of picnic benches and shade structures all over. Along with swimming, SUPing, and kayaking, you can play at the St. George Aqua Adventures Waterpark right in the reservoir. Kids of all ages will have an absolute blast on the water slides, obstacle course, trampolines, and swing…and believe me, adults will have a ton of fun, too. (The waterpark requires tickets purchased online or walk-in.) Local tip: You can rent kayaks and paddleboards right on the shore from DIG Paddlesports …which also has a great concession stand when you need snacks. Fees: It costs $15/vehicle for residents or $20/vehicle for non-residents to enter Quail Creek State Park, or you can use a Utah State Parks pass. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 8. Toquerville Falls - Toquerville, UT This double waterfall oasis is truly what desert dreams are made of! Toquerville Falls is one of the most epic waterfalls in southern Utah , and the whole family will savor the time spent splashing around in these stunning waterfalls. You don’t even have to hike to get here. Local tip: But you do NEED a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle to make it to Toquerville Falls. There is a nearly six-mile stretch of road to the falls that isn’t accessible in any other vehicle. Do not try to drive this road in anything less…seriously, you will get stuck and ruin your car. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 9. Pa’Rus Trail - Zion National Park Most people miss the Pa’rus Trail since it’s right near the entrance to Zion. But it is a lovely paved trail running along the Virgin River, so it’s perfect for stopping to dip your toes in the water...or even go for a swim. In fact, “Pa’rus” means “bubbling water” in Paiute. The trail begins behind the South Campground and runs from the Visitor Center to Canyon Junction. Fees: Since the Pa’rus Trail is located within the Zion park boundaries, you’ll need to pay the $35 entry fee/vehicle ($20/pedestrian) or have an annual National Parks pass. LOCAL TIP : Also check out George Barker River Park right outside the park entrance in Springdale. You can enjoy a sandy beach area along the river here, with amazing views of Zion. Both the Pa’Rus Trail and George Barker River Park are dog-friendly if you have a four-legged family member. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 10. Gunlock Reservoir - Gunlock, UT About 15 miles northwest of St. George, you’ll find the welcoming waters of Gunlock Reservoir. You can boat, kayak, canoe, paddleboard, fish, and swim in the reservoir at Gunlock State Park. Beach campgrounds are available on a first-come/first-serve basis if you want to spend more time on the water. And if you’re lucky, Gunlock Falls might even be flowing during your visit! Fees: It’s $10 per vehicle for residents or $15 per vehicle for non-residents to enter Gunlock State Park, or you can use a Utah State Parks pass. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 11. Virgin River Skimboard Park - Washington, UT The Virgin River Skimboard Park is a unique spot where kids can bring their own skimboards and play in the small waves. A man-made waterfall has created small pools to splash around in, and I see people bring sand toys and beach chairs and just spend the whole day here. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 12. Navajo Lake - Cedar Mountain, UT Located in Dixie National Forest, Navajo Lake is absolutely gorgeous! It’s also absolutely freezing, since it’s an alpine lake on top of Cedar Mountain, but when you a ready to escape that intense heat down south I don't think you will mind a swim in cold water. Navajo Lake was naturally formed by lava flow and you can explore the lava beds in the area when the water gets too chilly. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 13. Lake at The Hills - Cedar City, UT Lake at The Hills is a small, man-made lake right in the middle of Cedar City. It’s easily accessible if you just want to take a quick dip, and you can also go kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing here. The lake is surrounded by picnic tables and is such a great spot for swim when hanging out in Cedar City. GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 14. Lake Powell - Page, AZ Lake Powell is the largest man-made lake in North America, and you’ll want a boat to explore a lot of it. But my favorite section of Lake Powell is The Chains, which is super easy to get to without a boat. The Chains is located just past Glen Canyon Dam on the Page side of the lake, and it is awesome for swimming, cliff jumping, and scrambling around the red rocks. Find out all about exploring The Chains at Lake Powell in my guide here . GOOGLE DIRECTIONS 15. Jackson Flat Reservoir - Kanab, UT A beautiful little lake in Kanab, Jackson Flat Reservoir is a really nice spot for playing in the water and hanging out. You’ll find lots to do here, with a sand volleyball court, a disc golf course, and even an outdoor gym. We loved e-biking on the trail around the lake. Local tip: You can rent e-bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards at ROAM Surf & Sport at Jackson Flat . GOOGLE DIRECTIONS Virgin River Algal Bloom Advisory Algal bloom toxins were discovered in the Virgin River in July 2020 after a puppy died 20 minutes after coming in contact with the water. Since then, the Zion has been monitoring toxin levels in the park’s streams and rivers. As of July 2023, the park has downgraded most of the water bodies in the park to a Health Watch level, while North Creek (including The Subway) remains at a Warning Advisory level. You can check the current status of the Virgin River Watershed monitoring here . During warning advisories, the park recommends that recreators avoid swimming or submerging their head in the river because toxins can enter the body by swallowing water or through the nose, eyes, or open wounds. Drinking water from the Virgin River is NOT advised. Toxins cannot be filtered out by standard hiking filtration methods. Dogs must be kept on a leash. If pets get into the river, remove them from the water immediately, rinse off their fur thoroughly, and monitor for symptoms of toxin poisoning. A dog can die in as little as 15 minutes from anatoxin-a poisoning. Thoughts from a Local Since July 2020, thousands of people have continued hiking The Narrows and swimming in the Virgin River. I have hiked The Narrows and swam in the Virgin River myself, and I have not gotten sick or heard of anyone getting sick. Tips for Enjoying Swimming Holes in Utah Bring lots of water, especially to the spots you have to hike into. Even though you’re playing in the water, you’re still in the desert where it’s easy to get dangerously dehydrated (and the water at swimming holes isn’t safe for drinking). Use sun protection! Waterproof sunscreen is key here, since the desert sun is still hot even when you feel cool in the water. Don’t forget towels if you want them…or you can just air dry pretty quickly in the dry desert heat. A lot of these spots have nice sandy beaches, so I love bringing sand toys for the kids. As always make sure to Leave No Trace , and clean up all your trash. Leave the swimming hole looking better than you found it for other people to enjoy as much as you did. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • The 12 Most Adventurous Things to Do in Kanab, Utah

    Looking for an outdoor adventure paradise? You’ll find it in the southern Utah desert of Kanab, UT! The sandstone rock formations that make up the local landscape here offer the opportunity for hiking, canyoneering, paddling, off-roading, and so much more in a truly stunning setting. Believe me, you won’t run out of awesome and adventurous things to do in Kanab, Utah. Where is Kanab? The town of Kanab is in southern Utah, sitting right on the border of Arizona. Kanab is about an hour east of Zion National Park , an hour and a half south of Bryce Canyon National Park , and an hour and a half north of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon . 12 Adventurous Things to Do in Kanab, Utah Kanab has adventurous activities for everyone, no matter how you like to spend time outside. And with lots of great guide services offering tours, you can try tons of new things to do in Kanab, Utah, too. Dive into Canyoneering My number one favorite way to adventure in Kanab is canyoneering with All Ways Adventure . With so many otherworldly slot canyons to explore in this sandstone landscape of southern Utah, Kanab is an amazing place for canyoneering! Canyoneering should be a must on your list of things to do in Kanab, Utah.  After my first time canyoneering over 8 years ago, I was hooked! It is such a fun way to see secret slot canyons that aren’t accessible just by hiking, and I love that it is a family activity that I can do with my kiddos. While I love hiking, I don’t have a ton of knowledge when it comes to more technical outdoor skills, but if you go canyoneering with a guide, you don’t need much skill to feel like a legit adventurer! All Ways Adventure  is a canyoneering guiding service based out of Kanab that can show you the ropes (literally, when you’re rappelling) and guide you through some of the amazing and off the beaten path slot canyons in the area. The owners Nathan and Jillian have been guiding in Southern Utah for over 10 years and are experts at tailoring trips to all sorts of adventure levels. All Ways Adventure is hands down my favorite guide company in Kanab and all of Southern Utah for that matter. I have gone on several canyoneering trips with All Ways Adventure from full day, half day and even a guided backpacking trip, and they have all been incredible! My kids and I did some rappelling in Red Cliffs Reserve , and on a solo guided adventure, I explored a cool off-the-beaten-path canyon and even got to rappel down a frozen waterfall ! CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO TO BOOK A PHOTOSHOOT TODAY I took my kiddos on a canyoneering adventure with Nathan recently that was all about squeezing and sliding through the tight canyons with a little less repelling. It was like a natural obstacle course and my kids loved the challenge. There are so many different ways to adventure with All Ways Adventure .   For those who are wanting a full out adventure, a guided backpacking trip is the way to go! Explore the backcountry of Southern Utah with a guided backpacking trip. I went on a guided backpacking trip to Neon Canyon in Escalante with All Ways Adventure in May and it was the most magical 3 day backpacking adventure ever!  I am not skilled at knowing what to pack and how to survive in the backcountry, I have only done one other backpacking trip, so going with a guide was a must for me. You can hire them to take you out and you can also join in on one of the trips that are already on the schedule. When I was preparing for my trip, All Ways Adventure let me borrow all the gear I didn’t have, like a backpack, tent, canyoneering gear, and dry suit, and they guided me on everything I needed to do to prepare for the trip. They also provided all the food.....such a huge bonus! They were so helpful and made the whole process of preparing for the trip so easy and stress free. The three day trip was filled with jaw dropping views, camping in a beautiful canyon, lots of laughter, canyoneering, hiking, and pushing myself to do things outside of my comfort zone in all the best ways. Find out more about their guided backpacking trip options here .  If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Kanab, Utah, I highly recommend canyoneering + more with All Ways Adventure for an experience you won’t forget. For more about canyoneering with All Ways Adventure, check out my blog post here ! ***Image from Shutterstock Hike the Wave The Wave is an iconic hike that truly tops the list of things to do in Kanab, Utah. You might have seen the unique undulating red and white sandstone formation in photos but seeing it in person is even more spectacular. The trailhead for The Wave is about an hour outside of Kanab proper in the Coyote Buttes area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. The Wave trail is a 6.7 out and back hike that’s pretty moderate so it’s a very doable epic adventure. The trail is really not a marked trail though, so you should have a GPS to navigate. Honestly, the biggest challenge of hiking The Wave is getting the required permits to allow you to do so. There is both a Wave advanced lottery  and a daily lottery for Wave permits , but it is extremely competitive, so you might have to try several times. Note: The road to The Wave becomes a real washed out mess when it’s wet, and you might need 4WD to reach the trailhead. It’s a good idea to check the toad conditions before you head out. Explore Buckskin Gulch & Wire Pass Trail Hiking from Wire Pass Trail through the slot canyon of Buckskin Gulch with the light streaming in and illuminating the canyon walls is a highlight of things to do in Kanab, Utah. Wire Pass Trail starts from the same trailhead as The Wave, so it’s a great alternative adventure if you can’t snag a permit for The Wave. While the beginning of Wire Pass Trail isn’t super exciting, once you enter the slots, it’s such a treat to explore. After about half a mile in the slots, the cliffs open up where Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch intersect. From here, you can go up both ways to explore all the beauty that Buckskin Gulch has to offer. Note: Permits are required and are $6/person (and $6/dog). Service can be spotty at the trailhead, so purchase your Buckskin Gulch/Wire Pass Trail permit online ahead of time here . Check out more about Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch in my post here ! Take a Jeep Tour to Peekaboo Canyon Peekaboo Canyon is a stunning slot canyon near Kanab, and you can have a blast exploring it on an ATV tour!  We took an ATV adventure through Peekaboo Canyon with Kanab Tour Company , and our guide was awesome. Along with the thrills of off-roading over the desert terrain, we learned a ton about the area, too. We also got to go sandboarding at the end of the tour, which was definitely a highlight for the kiddos. Plus, our pup even came along on this adventure, so it was truly fun for the whole family! Drive Cottonwood Canyon Road Take a beautiful scenic drive off the beaten path in southern Utah along Cottonwood Canyon Road. The dirt road stretches 47 miles from Kanab to Kodachrome Basin State Park, so plan a full day for exploring and hiking all along Cottonwood Canyon. WARNING : Do not attempt this road if there is a chance of rain in the forcast. The road will quickly become a muddy mess and there is no cell service if you do get stuck. There are so many hikes and adventure opportunities along the road. I recommend stopping along the way to hike Cottonwood Narrows North…the slot canyon is stunning, and it’s a quick and easy hike to get to it. Hackberry Canyon is another hike that I hear is amazing. When we went at the end of June there were fields of sunflowers in bloom which was absolutely breathtaking! Grosvenor Arch at the end of the road is a great spot to stop and explore before turning around. Or, after visiting the arch, you can head 10 more minutes down the road to explore Kodachrome Basin State Park . Paddle Antelope Canyon Paddling through Antelope Canyon was on my bucket list of things to do in Kanab, Utah for a long time, and when I finally got a chance to do it, the experience totally lived up to the hype! While you need to take a guided tour to visit the protected areas of Antelope Canyon, you can do this route without a permit or a guide. Starting at the Antelope Point Launch ramp, we paddle boarded Lake Powell for 2 miles to the very bottom portion of Antelope Canyon. Then we hiked up Antelope Canyon for 3 miles until we came to a dead end where we turned around. Hiking through this section of Antelope Canyon is gorgeous with swirly sandstone cliffs and beautiful light streaming through. Several guide companies in Page & Lake Powell will bring the kayaks/paddleboards and guide you up the canyon or you can rent the kayaks and go on your own. We recommend Paddle Lake Powell . Get all the details about an epic day of paddling and hiking Antelope Canyon in this post ! Tour Great Chamber The Great Chamber is a massive cave with a sand dune inside. It’s so cool to visit, but it’s hard to get to, which is why it makes for such a fun ATV adventure. The road to the Great Chamber is deep sand, very bumpy, and unmarked, so I highly recommend going with a tour like Expedition Kanab . After your thrilling ATV ride, the actual hike to the Great Chamber is short (but seems long in the hot desert sun, so make sure you have sunscreen and water). Once you reach the chamber itself, have some fun playing around in the sand and make sure to get some super stunning photos of the unique, cavernous Great Chamber. Go on a Horseback Ride  I have done several horseback rides in Southern Utah, and riding in Cave Lakes Canyon with ROAM Adventures  was by far my favorite. You’ll ride through a private canyon near Kanab that features the classic stunning red sandstone walls of the desert along with plenty of lush greenery. Riding through the canyon, you’ll discover so many hidden cave lakes and alcoves to explore, and the open meadow at the end of the canyon is so stunning. Believe me, it’s just so beautiful every step of the way! Find out more about taking an adventurous glamping getaway at Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch here ! ***Image from Shutterstock Visit White Pocket White Pocket is a magical place across the border from Kanab in northern Arizona. It’s a long, rough road to get there, but once you step foot in the landscape of colorful sandstone formations, it will all be worth it! The striated rock of white, red, and orange is truly breathtaking, and White Pocket is much more secluded than The Wave. Because of the complicated drive to get there, the best way to experience White Pocket is through a guided tour – check out Dreamland Safari Tours , Kanab Tour Company , Paria Outpost , or Coral Cliffs Tours  to explore this special place. Paddle Horseshoe Bend Horseshoe Bend is an iconic overlook about an hour outside Kanab in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Page, AZ. While the view from the overlook is even more stunning in person than in pictures, you can get a totally different perspective on this popular spot by paddling down the Colorado River through Horseshoe Bend. Horseshoe Bend is typically crowded and it's a short hike so not much of an adventure, but kayaking Horseshoe Bend is a full on adventure! I did this adventure recently with adventure photog Sammie and am planning to take my kiddos soon, too, since I think they will love it! We rented our kayaks from Kayak Horseshoe Bend  and used their backhaul services to launch into the river. That all went smoothly, but we made the mistake of going in the middle of the afternoon, so we were only able to go up the canyon 5 miles because of limited time. I recommend getting there early rather than later so that you can go all the way to Horseshoe Bend to make it a full day activity.  While paddling in the intense summer sun is very hot, the water is so cold that you can easily cool off when you need to. Definitely bring a sun hat, more water than you think you could possibly need, snacks and lots of sunscreen though! Hike and UTV Around Crimson Canyon Get two adventures in one with a thrilling UTV ride and a spectacular slot canyon hike on a guided tour of Crimson Canyon with East Zion Adventures . The UTV portion is an absolute blast! Speeding through the desert and navigating the rocky path was a snap for our amazing guides, but it got our adrenaline pumping and my kiddos loved every second.  Then you can calm down with a gentle hike through the slot canyon, which iss stunning from the first moment you step in. The deep red canyon walls rise over 100 feet high to surround you, with a narrow (but not too narrow!) gap to hike through. Plus, since Crimson Canyon is private access, we didn't see a single other soul the whole hike. Take a Stargazing Tour (with S’mores!) The perfect capper to your adventures in Kanab is a Campfire S’mores and Stargazing Tour with Adventure Tour Company . You’ll take a drive in a large open-air truck to a private canyon with an old fort where over 35 movies have been filmed. Here you’ll spend time getting up close with longhorn cows, playing campfire games, and making s'mores with gourmet homemade marshmallows. And don’t forget to look up at the desert sky! Kanab is a dark sky destination, so if the clouds clear, you can soak in the celestial beauty. Whichever one – or several! – of these adventurous things to do in Kanab, Utah you choose, you will have a fantastic time exploring all that this special section of the southern Utah desert has to offer! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • Take an Epic Trip from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon

    For a tour of the Southwest that you won’t soon forget, take an epic road trip from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon! I recently did the Zion to Grand Canyon road trip with my kiddos and came up with an itinerary to help you explore all the most incredible places along the way, including Bryce Canyon National Park, Antelope Canyon,  Lake Powell, Page, Flagstaff, Sedona, and so much more. If you’ve dreamed of hiking up Angels Landing in Zion, marveling at the hoodoos in Bryce, splashing in Lake Powell, seeing the red rocks in Sedona, and looking out over the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, you can do it all on this itinerary. As a Zion local I have road tripped to all of these places and this itinerary is jam packed with all of my favorites places! 8-Day Desert Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Zion National Park to Grand Canyon South Rim This is the quick rundown of an epic 8-day itinerary for a road trip through the Southwest, from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon South Rim: Day 1 : Fly into Las Vegas & Drive to Kanab (3 hr drive) SPEND THREE NIGHTS IN KANAB Day 2:  Zion (1 hr drive) Day 3:  Page/Lake Powell (1 hr drive) Day 4:  Bryce Canyon (1 hr 30 min drive) Day 5:  Half Day in Kanab & Drive to Flagstaff (3 hr 30 minute drive) SPEND THREE NIGHTS IN FLAGSTAFF Day 6:  South Rim of Grand Canyon (1 hr 20 minute drive) Day 7:  Sedona (1 hr drive) Day 8:   Half Day in Flagstaff & Fly Out of Las Vegas (3 hr 40 min drive) And here’s the entire detailed itinerary to explore these incredible destinations in the stunning landscape of the Southwest desert. Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas and Drive to Kanab 3 hour drive Las Vegas is the closest major airport to this corner of the Southwest, and it’s about a 3 hour drive from there to the cute little town of Kanab, Utah . I recommend staying in Kanab for this itinerary from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon because it perfectly breaks up the drive for the first half of the trip, and it is right in between all the day trip destinations. Where to Stay in Kanab A couple of great places to stay in Kanab are Timber & Tin or BaseCamp 37°. I’ve stayed at both spots, and they are both wonderful depending on what you’re looking for. Timber & Tin  features small homes on a fun property right in downtown Kanab, while BaseCamp 37 ° offers off-the-grid glamping in the Chocolate Cliffs of the Grand Staircase just 10 minutes out of town. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BOOKING A FAMILY/COUPLE PHOTOSHOOT IN ZION Day 2: Visit Zion National Park 1 hour drive from Kanab Zion National Park is just an hour away from Kanab, and you can make the most of one day in Zion  with this itinerary that features all the main attractions in the park. This day will leave you exhausted.......in a good way! Bring a sack lunch with you for this adventure day. Morning Riverside Walk/The Narrows Get an early start for this hike! Riverside Walk starts at the last stop on the Zion shuttle . It is a 2.5 mile round trip hike which takes you right along the Virgin River. The end of this hike is actually the start of The Narrows, so you can walk up the river for a little bit to get a taste of this famous water hike in Zion . Scouts Lookout/Angels Landing or Emerald Pools Get back on the shuttle and get off at The Grotto, where you can hike the start of the Angels Landing trail . The elevation is steep right off the bat, and an hour of hiking will get you to some stunning views. If you have time, try to make it to Scout Lookout, which is as far as you can go without needing a permit. Emerald Pools If you don’t have the energy for Scouts Lookout/Angels Landing then from The Grotto shuttle stop you can take the Kayenta trail to Emerald Pools. It’s a 2.5 mile round trip hike to go all the way to the upper of the three pools, but If you are running short on time or energy, you can just hike to the first pool/waterfall and turn around. Afternoon Hop on the shuttle again, and head back to the Visitor Center to get your car and drive into Springdale for some ice cream. You’ve earned it! We like Hoodoos General Store because there is a lawn and places to sit outside……or you can head a very short distance up the road to the very shaded city park. If you have a little time after that then walk through some of the art galleries, rock shops and souvenir shops. After your little break in Springdale head up to East Zion. Stop at the Many Pools trailhead, where you can hike and explore along Clear Creek , the dry streambed that follows Route 9 throughout the east side of Zion. This is not a named trail in Zion, but it’s excellent for some off-the-beaten-path hiking and fun. Canyon Overlook After exploring Clear Creek, drive back the way you came, but stop just before the tunnel so you can hike Canyon Overlook. Canyon Overlook  is a 1.25-mile family-friendly trail on the east side of Zion where you might spot bighorn sheep, see some small caves, and enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in the park. This is a great spot to watch sunset! *EXPERT ADVICE FROM A ZION LOCAL If you want to add an extra day to this road trip then one more day in Zion is what you should do. Slow down a little, e-bike the Zion Canyon , brows the shops in Springdale , or book a family or couples photoshoot in Zion with us ! CHECK OUT THIS BLOG POST FOR 10 DIFFERENT WAYS TO SPEND ONE DAY IN ZION Day 3: Explore Page, AZ & Lake Powell 1 hour drive from Kanab Today you’ll make the one hour drive to spend some time on the water in Lake Powell and visit the nearby town of Page, AZ. Definitely bring your swimsuit for this one! MORNING Antelope Canyon There are a couple of ways to visit Antelope Canyon. To hike the iconic swirly sandstone slot canyons, you are required to book a tour.. The guided Antelope Canyon tours  are expensive and book up way in advance, but they are the only way to see this part of the canyon. But you can see a different side of Antelope Canyon by paddling from Lake Powell , and this is what I recommend. Start at the Antelope Point Launch ramp and paddle board or kayak Lake Powell for 2 miles to the very bottom portion of Antelope Canyon. You can then hike up this section of Antelope Canyon for 3 miles to a dead end before turning around, and this route does not require a permit or a guide. AFTERNOON & EVENING The Chains After your Antelope Canyon adventure, spend some time splashing around The Chains area of Lake Powell . While most of Lake Powell is only accessible by boat, The Chains is easy to get to, great for kids, and is even pet-friendly. It is the perfect location to swim, cliff jump, and explore the red rocks without a boat. You can find The Chains just past Glen Canyon Dam, on the Page, AZ side of the lake. Horseshoe Bend Finish your day in Page, AZ by watching the sunset over Horseshoe Bend. It’s a short 1/2 mile round trip hike out to the overlook of this gorgeous bend of the Colorado River. This is a very popular spot, so be prepared to share the sunset with the crowds who want to see this stunning natural wonder, too. Day 4: Wander Around Bryce Canyon 1 hour 30 min drive from Kanab Bryce Canyon is another must-visit destination in southwestern Utah, and it’s just an hour and a half from Kanab. Here’s the itinerary I recommend for a day of exploring in Bryce . Morning Navajo Loop Trail The Navajo Loop Trail is a great family-friendly hike that makes a perfect introduction to the landscape of Bryce. This loop trail is just under a mile and a half, and it takes you down some switchbacks and through Wall Street, the only slot canyon in Bryce. Then you’ll hike through hoodoos along the canyon floor before heading back up to the rim. Afternoon Horseback Ride Take a horseback ride for a unique and awesome adventure in Bryce! Canyon Trail Rides  offers a shorter ride (about 1.5-2 hours) to fit into a busy day, and it is a simply stunning ride down into the canyon and past Sunset and Sunrise Point.  If you have more time, you can also book a longer 3-hour ride which goes even farther along the Peek-A-Boo Loop. Evening Mossy Cave Trail This short  hike is just under a mile round trip, and it’s an excellent way to cap off a day exploring Bryce. The trail follows Water Canyon and features some of the iconic hoodoos that Bryce is known for along the way. After a couple of creek crossings, you’ll end up at a lovely little waterfall and Mossy Cave itself. Day 5: Hike in Kanab then Drive to Flagstaff 3 hour 30 min drive from Kanab Before you say goodbye to Kanab, make a couple quick stops to check out these cool spots in town. MORNING Squaw Trail This is a 3 mile round-trip hike located right in town, making it perfect for a morning hike before you leave. After a little bit of steep uphill hiking, you’ll gain gorgeous views of Kanab from above. Kanab Sand Caves You can’t visit Kanab without checking out the Kanab Sand Caves  (also known as Moqui Caverns). The short hike to these cool man-made caves is easy and family friendly, although you will have to scramble up a rock wall for a very short distance Head to Flagstaff Then it’s time to make the 3.5 hour drive to Flagstaff, which will be your home base for the rest of this Southwestern road trip from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon. Pro tip:  Stop at Jacob Lake Inn  on the way to get the best cookies in the world…seriously! Navajo Bridge I also recommend a pit stop at the Navajo Bridge. You can stretch your legs and walk across the Colorado River on this historic bridge. It is a pedestrian-only bridge that will allow you to gaze the Colorado River in all it's glory. If your lucky there might even be some California Condors hanging out under the bridge. Why Stay in Flagstaff Flagstaff is an ideal location to stay for this leg of your Southwest road trip itinerary because it is conveniently located in between Sedona and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. I also adore Flagstaff because it is less touristy and less expensive than Sedona, it has great temps in the summer (hello 80 degrees durning the day!), and it’s just a really cool city with a small town vibe. Where to Stay in Flagstaff Two great options for lodging in Flagstaff are High Country Motor Lodge and Americana Motor Hotel. On our road trip, we stayed at High Country Motor Lodge , which has amazing vintage design and a really cool vibe. There is a cool game room with pool, foosball, and board games, plus corn hole and outdoor Jenga on the lawn. Unfortunately on our stay the pool and jacuzzi was being renovated but should be done for summer 2025....yay! The food options at the cafe and bar right on the premises are super tasty, and I loved that I could get a latte in the morning. ***I was pretty annoyed with them that they didn't let me know that the pool was under construction when I booked our stay. I only found out afterwards and they wouldn't let me cancel....kinda lame. Day 6: See the South Rim of the Grand Canyon 1 hour 20 min drive from Flagstaff Spend the day sightseeing along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for breathtaking views of this incredible place. MORNING Visitor Center & Mather Point The best way to start your visit to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is to head straight to the Visitor Center. You can park in one of the several lots here and get all the info you need to explore. Plus, you can take a short walk to Mather Point for your first real view of the Grand Canyon. Bright Angel Trail Though this trail goes all the way down to the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon, most people only hike a short way down below the rim. We went down about half a mile, just enough to get a little feel for the trail. Remember, you have to hike uphill on the way out, so only go down as far as you can safely do that! Walk Along the Rim Trail Be sure to spend some time strolling along the rim and savoring the views into the Grand Canyon. We also browsed the souvenir shops along the way and visited Bright Angel Lodge, which has several dining options if you’re hungry. AFTERNOON Desert View Watchtower Then we drove 30 minutes to the Desert View Watchtower , which we absolutely loved! Spend a little more time and stop at the different lookouts along the drive. We got in line to get free tickets to tour the watchtower and only had to wait about 20 minutes. It’s a self-guided tour so you can go at your own pace. The stone structure of the watchtower is so cool, and the paintings and design of the building are beautiful. I highly recommend taking the short tour to fully explore it. We also got lunch at the cafe here, which was honestly very mediocre but also very convenient.  Day 7: Savor the Sights in Sedona 1 hour drive from Flagstaff On the last full day of your Southwest road trip, take a truly stunning drive down to Sedona. I really have no words for how incredible this drive is. MORNING Crescent Moon Day Use Park This is an amazing spot to spend time in Sedona. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s so much fun for swimming and sliding on the rocks like a water slide. We honestly could have stayed here all day playing in the water, enjoying the incredible view of Cathedral Rock, and relaxing in the abundant shade. I wish we would have brought lunch with us so we didn’t have to leave! AFTERNOON Wildflower Cafe & Downtown Shops Our lunch at Wildflower Cafe was very good though, and then we walked around the shops in downtown Sedona. There are tons of cool shops here, so you can find the perfect souvenir to remember your Southwest road trip. West Fork Oak Creek Trail After spending some time in the city, we were ready for a hike in nature, and the West Fork of the Oak Creek Trail is a lovely place to wander in the shade in Sedona. The trail is surrounded by canyon walls and plentiful trees, and you’re walking along the creek so you can cool off. Lowell Observatory For a fun evening activity in Flagstaff, check out the Lowell Observatory . Several telescopes are available to see the stars on the Open Deck and in the Clark Dome. Sadly, we didn’t get a chance to go because it wasn’t open on Tuesday, and it was cloudy the other day we were in the area. Day 8: Spend Time in Flagstaff Then Fly Out of Vegas 3 hour 40 min drive If you have a little time to spend in Flagstaff before you have to catch your flight, here are a couple things to do. MORNING Tourist Home Cafe and walking around down town For a bite to eat for breakfast or lunch, we loved this cute little cafe! It’s a must when in Flagstaff for unique American food. After breakfast walk around the downtown area and brows the shops. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course Pack a little more adventure into your trip with a visit to the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course . Climb into the trees to complete obstacles and fly down the ziplines. This was such a fun experience for my kiddos, and we would definitely do it again! Finally, it’s time to bid farewell to the Southwest and drive back to Las Vegas to end your epic Zion National Park to Grand Canyon road trip and fly home. Best Time of Year for This Southwest Road Trip Itinerary While you can visit the Southwest year-round, since this itinerary includes swimming and water hikes, it would be best to take this trip in the warmer months of May-September. Just be aware that summer is very hot in the desert, so bring sun protection and plenty of water for all your adventures. Packing List for Your Southwest Road Trip Here are some things you should make sure to bring on your Southwest road trip so you can be comfortable while hiking and exploring: Light, breathable clothing Hiking sandals, like Tevas or Chacos (I love my Tevas!) Small day pack (to carry other things on the list) Water bottle.....always start the day with a full water bottle and refill often. Snacks Sunscreen.....you will need sunscreen with you everywhere you go. Sun hat Sunglasses Swimsuit Of course, this isn’t everything you’ll need, but it includes the most important things you don’t want to forget. Hope this itinerary inspires you to plan your own Southwest road trip to explore all the awesome destinations from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • 31 Epic Family Friendly Hikes In Southern Utah

    Southern Utah is an outdoor lover’s paradise with adventures for everyone. Whether you’re wanting to slide into a tight slot canyon, find a waterfall amidst a desert oasis, scale sandstone cliffs or explore Dr. Seuss-like rock formations this part of the state has it all. While there’s no shortage of “epic” when it comes to hikes in Southern Utah, finding the right ones that you can take your kiddos on can be a little more of a challenge. Here is a list of our favorite adventure driven hikes around Southern Utah that the kiddos will love and we feel pretty confident that parents will too. I’ve explored the trails of Southern Utah with my kids for years, so I’ve got some serious firsthand experience about which hikes in Southern Utah are kid-friendly. Trust me, I’ve put in the mileage here…literally! The Best Hikes in Southern Utah for Kids Here is a list of our favorite adventure driven hikes around Southern Utah that the kiddos will love and we feel pretty confident that parents will too. ;-) ZION NATIONAL PARK 1. Riverside Walk 2. The Narrows 3. Lower Pine Creek Falls 4. Canyon Overlook 5. Emerald Pool 6. Clear Creek KOLOB CANYONS/TERRACE 7. Lambs Knoll 8. Taylor Creek 9. Timber Creek Overlook 10. Northgate Peaks KANAB AREA 11. Kanab Sand Caves 12. Squaw Trail 13. Wire Pass 14. Toadstools 15. The Nautilus SNOW CANYON 16. Jenny’s Canyon 17. Scout Cave 18. Johnson’s Canyon 19. Petrified Dunes KANARRAVILLE 20. Kanarra Falls 21. Spring Creek Canyon ORDERVILLE 22. Belly of the Dragon 23. Red Hollow RED CLIFFS RESERVE 24. Red Reef Trail 25. Babylon Arch OTHER AREAS IN SOUTHERN UTAH 26. Yant Flat (Dixie National Forest) 27. Water Canyon (Canaan Mountain/Hildale) 28. Cascade Falls (Duck Creek) 29. Hidden Haven (Brian Head) 30. Ramparts Trail (Cedar Breaks) 31. Ashdown Gorge (Cedar Canyon) 1. RIVERSIDE WALK - Main Canyon, Zion National Park TRAIL STATS Beginner 2.5 miles round trip Minimal elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This is a perfect hike as an intro to hiking in Zion with kids . To get there, take the shuttle all the way through the park (35 mins) and get a wonderful scenic view of the canyon. When you start hiking, you can choose the paved trail or the sand trail that runs parallel to it and is usually less crowded. The kiddos will love that they can play in the river and explore and climb around the trail. The end of this hike is the start of The Narrows. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR RIVERSIDE WALK 2. THE NARROWS - Main Canyon, Zion National Park TRAIL STATS Advanced 9 miles total, but you can turn around whenever you want 300 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS If you are visiting Zion National Park in the summer with kids who love to hike and who love water then The Narrows is a hike that should be at the very top of your list. Such a great way to beat the intense summer heat, The Narrows is an amazing slot canyon hike that will take your breath away around every turn. The full hike is 9 miles round trip but you can just hike until everyone is ready to turn around. Note: The Narrows hike is closed when the river is flowing too fast. Always check conditions on the Zion NPS site , and don’t hike The Narrows during or after heavy rain because of the possibility of flash floods. CLICK HERE FOR O UR TOP 10 TIPS FOR HIKING THE NARROWS WITH KIDS 3. LOWER PINE CREEK FALLS - Main Canyon, Zion National Park TRAIL STATS Intermediate 1 mile round trip Minimal elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Lower Pine Creek Falls is a great trail to get away from the crowds in Zion and also an excellent way to cool off in the heat of the summer. It’s less than a mile round trip hike to get to the picturesque pond and 15-foot waterfall, but it is a true adventure with some stream hopping, boulder climbing and sketchy ledges. Warning, once you get to the waterfall you might never want to leave! If you go in the summer bring swimsuits for the kids. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS TO LOWER PINE CREEK FALLS   4. CANYON OVERLOOK - East Side, Zion National Park TRAIL STATS Beginner/Intermediate 1.25 miles round trip 157 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This family-friendly trail on the east side of Zion features big horn sheep sightings, caves (kinda) and one of the most breathtaking views in the park. It almost feels like cheating to get views like this with such an easy hike. At about a mile round trip, Canyon Overlook is great for families, and there is only some slight elevation gain. It is important to keep a close eye on the kiddos though, since this trail has lots of steep drop offs especially at the overlook.  CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS TO CANYON OVERLOOK     5. EMERALD POOLS - Main Canyon, Zion National Park TRAIL STATS Intermediate Lower Pool: 1 mile round trip/Middle Pool: 1.25 miles round trip/Upper Pool: 2.5 miles round trip 620 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS One of the most popular hikes in the park, this trail is located right across from the Zion Lodge. The hike takes you to three gorgeous pools, and the waterfalls and stream along the way make this hike super fun for kids. You can also take the  Kayenta Trail on your way back to get some different views. Local tip: Swimming is not allowed in the pools, so there’s no need to bring your swimsuits. 6. CLEAR CREEK - East Side, Zion National Park TRAIL STATS Beginner/Intermediate No set distance, you can hike as little or as much as you want Elevation gain varies  TRAIL DETAILS Clear Creek does not have an actual starting point or end point, so you can choose your own adventure. As you drive along Route 9 on the upper east side of Zion, you will see the dry creek bed down below. Simply pick a spot to pull off and go exploring! I recommend pulling over at the Many Pools trailhead. The kids will totally love all the areas to run and play here. Local tip:  Please respect the landscape and do NOT let your kids draw on the canyon walls! CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS TO CANYON OVERLOOK   7. LAMBS KNOLL - Kolob Terrace TRAIL STATS Beginner 1/2 mile round trip Minimal elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Lambs Knoll is an area along Kolob Terrace Road that is popular for rock climbing and canyoneering, but you can keep it easy to explore this super fun area with kids. The hike is short and leads you to a small and tight slot canyon that is a huge hit with the kiddos. There are picnic tables here, so you can make it into a fun half day adventure by bringing lunch or dinner. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR LAMBS KNOLL 8. TAYLOR CREEK - Kolob Canyons TRAIL STATS Intermediate 5.5 miles round trip 620 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS The kiddos will love that you are walking along a small stream for the majority of this hike, which is especially nice in the summer. The trail is really lovely, and the cool double arch alcove at the end is a great spot to stop for lunch and snacks before turning back. There are also two historic cabins along the trail that are interesting to look around and peak in. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR TAYLOR CREEK 9. TIMBER CREEK OVERLOOK - Kolob Canyons TRAIL STATS Beginner/Intermediate 1 mile round trip 255 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Timber Creek Overlook is a sandy and flat trail with a few short rocky hills. The hike is short and keeps the kids engaged along the way. It’s really the perfect quick hike with kids to experience the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Kolob Canyon…the views on this hike are stunning! 10. NORTHGATE PEAKS -  Kolob Terrace TRAIL STATS Beginner/Intermediate 4.5 miles round trip 100 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This hike goes along a flat ponderosa forest and through wildflower meadows for 2 miles. Although this can get a little boring for the kiddos, the trail eventually rewards you with beautiful and unique views of Zion peaks and backcountry canyons. This is the area of Zion that most people don't see, and it's really worth it to get off the beaten path. Local tip: August is an especially gorgeous time to hike this trail on Kolob Terrace, since that’s when the many wildflowers will be in full bloom along the trail.  CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR NORTHGATE PEAKS 11. MOQUI CAVERNS/KANAB SAND CAVES - Kanab, UT TRAIL STATS Intermediate 0.25 miles round trip Elevation gain is just the scrambling up the wall to the caves TRAIL DETAILS The Kanab Sand Caves are located 10 minutes outside of Kanab, and it is such a fun hike with kids to scramble up to these cool caves. These man-made caves were used to harvest sand for glass production in the 1970s. Crazy, right? The quarter mile round trip hike to the caves is easy and family friendly. You will have to scale up a sand stone wall for a very short distance, which can be a bit slippery and difficult for both kids and adults, so make sure you have good traction on your shoes. Shoes with good traction are a must! There are steep drop off ledges at the caves so keep a close eye on your kiddos. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS TO THE SAND CAVES 12. SQUAW TRAIL - Kanab, UT TRAIL STATS Intermediate 3 miles round trip 600 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This short but steep trail is located right in the town of Kanab and is perfect for a morning or evening hike with the kiddos. You might have to encourage them on the steep uphill section, but it’s totally worth it to experience gorgeous views of Kanab from above. CHECK OUT THIS BLOG POST FOR MANY MORE REASONS TO VISIT KANAB 13. WIRE PASS - Outside Kanab TRAIL STATS Intermediate 3.7 miles round trip 180 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Wire Pass Trail is an awesome escape to a slot canyon about an hour east of Kanab off a bumpy dirt road. It’s a great hike that feels like an adventure yet is totally doable for families. Everyone will enjoy exploring in the deep narrows and taking in the quiet solitude and beauty of the wavy red rock walls. You can also make the hike a little bit longer and explore the beautiful Buckskin Gulch slot canyon, too. Note:  Permits ($6/person) are required for day use in this area. You should purchase your Wire Pass permits on recreation.gov  before you arrive because cell service is spotty here. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR WIRE PASS TRAIL 14. TOADSTOOLS - Outside Kanab TRAIL STATS Beginner 1.8 miles round trip 141 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS  This is truly one of the most fun hikes in Southern Utah for kids! The easy trail will take you to an area filled with rock formations and hoodoos that seriously look just like toadstools. Running from toadstool to toadstool and playing hide and go seek kept my kiddos entertained for hours. In fact, my kiddos loved this hike so much that we came back to the Toadstools again just a few weeks after our first visit. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR THE TOADSTOOLS 15. THE NAUTILUS - Outside Kanab TRAIL STATS Beginner 0.9 miles Minimal elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Another total hit with the kiddos is The Nautilus, just outside Kanab near Page, AZ. This short hike brings you to a unique swirly white rock formation. The formation is named "The Nautilus" because when you hike down into the formation, it spirals around, giving you the feeling you are exploring a large mollusk seashell. You can even sit on your bum and slide down, which my kiddos thought was the coolest thing ever! Adults will love The Nautilus, too, because it’s absolutely stunning. I adored the light inside the mollusk-like formation, with ripples of yellow stripes running through the white rock. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR THE NAUTILUS 16. JENNY’S CANYON - Snow Canyon State Park TRAIL STATS Beginner 0.5 miles round trip Minimal elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Jenny’s Canyon is a short, sandy walk to a quaint yet magnificent slot canyon. It’s honestly lovely to run your fingertips along the soft red walls of the canyon, and it offers a cool refuge from the hot desert summers. This trail is less than a half mile round trip walk and is lightly trafficked throughout the day,, so it’s a good place to get away from the crowds on some of the more well-known hikes in Southern Utah. CHECK OUT THIS BLOG POST FOR MORE ABOUT VISITING SNOW CANYON STATE PARK 17. SCOUT CAVE - Snow Canyon State Park TRAIL STATS Intermediate 3.5 miles round trip 500 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This mostly flat trail takes you through a lava flow and along a really pretty creek bed with lots of trees and desert vegetation. Near the end of the hike, you will climb a set of stairs and then a rocky path leads you up and into the cave.The views of the St George Valley from up here are beautiful and totally worth the short climb (although it might not be the best for young children). It’s not a super big cave but seriously, who doesn’t love a good cave? CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR SCOUT CAVE 18. JOHNSON’S CANYON - Snow Canyon State Park TRAIL STATS Beginner 1.7 miles round trip 154 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Johnson’s Canyon starts from the same trailhead as Scout Cave, and it’s a really nice hike to combine the two. The trail starts through the same lava flow and creek bed as Scout Cave, and then you continue straight instead of branching off. You’ll hike through the canyon and then get an awesome view of the 200 foot Johnson’s Arch. Note: Johnson’s Canyon Trail is closed seasonally from March 15-September 14 for turtle conservation. 19. PETRIFIED DUNES - Snow Canyon State Park TRAIL STATS Beginner/Intermediate 1.2 miles round trip 216 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This short trail is very family-friendly and packed with incredible views. The petrified sand dunes are essentially massive hills of Navajo sandstone that surround you. You can wander wherever you want, and kiddos especially love the freedom to run around here. Although there are some uneven surfaces and steep hills,  the dunes are pretty easy to navigate, so this hike is a fantastic family outing in Southern Utah. 20. KANARRA FALLS - Kanarraville, UT TRAIL STATS Advanced 4.4 miles round trip 692 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS A stunning slot canyon where you climb a ladder in the midst of a magical waterfall. Yes, please! This trail is 4.4 miles round trip and about as photogenic as they come with vibrant green trees and stunning slot canyons that will leave you speechless. There is a decent amount of rock scrambling and the beginning of the trail is a bit boring but keep going, it's worth it! If you can make it to the first slot canyon (about 1.5 miles in) with the kiddos I call that a win! Note: A permit ($15/person) is required to hike to Kanarra Falls. You can purchase permits at the trailhead kiosk, but permits are limited to 200 each day, so it’s better to buy online here  if you want to guarantee that you get them. CLICK HERE FOR F ULL HIKING DETAILS TO KANARRA FALLS 21. SPRING CREEK CANYON - Kanarraville, UT TRAIL STATS Intermediate/Advanced 5.3 miles round trip 761 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Spring Creek is an excellent alternative to Kanarra Falls if you want to avoid the crowds (and permits). The first mile of the trail is a bit boring, but once you reach the towering sandstone cliffs, it will take your breath away!! You’ll head deep into the canyon for an amazing Southern Utah red rock experience. The slot canyon never narrows too much, so it’s totally doable with kids, although the little ones might have more of a challenge. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR SPRING CREEK CANYON 22. Belly Of The Dragon - Orderville, UT TRAIL STATS Beginner 0.5 miles round trip Minimal elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS A  short hike through a manmade tunnel is the highlight of this unique, family-friendly trail located just 20 miles east of Zion National Park. The cave-like tunnel/Belly of the Dragon was originally created as a water culvert under HWY89 but over time drainage from upper canyon water flow has carved the sandstone walls and created a beautiful rippling tunnel prime for exploring. This is such a great adventure with kids so bring the whole family and have some fun. CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS TO BELLY OF THE DRAGON 23. RED HOLLOW - Orderville, UT TRAIL STATS Beginner 1 mile round trip 157 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Red Hollow Canyon is such a good easy slot canyon for beginners and kids. From the trailhead, you’ll head through a sandy wash while you’re surrounded by a mix of white and red sandstone which is just gorgeous. Soon the canyon will narrow into the slot canyon, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the breathtaking red walls.   24. RED REEF TRAIL - Red Cliffs Desert Reserve TRAIL STATS Beginner 3 miles round trip 219 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This trail is a fan favorite. It is a short 3-mile round trip hike with very little elevation gain, lots of cool spots for playing and exploring along the trail and the rock climbing rope area near the end makes the hike feel truly adventurous. If you choose to climb the rocks to the upper section with a small child on your back we recommend using a soft carrier. This will keep your center of gravity more even. There is a seasonal waterfall that runs in the spring but this hike is great any time of year.  CLICK HERE FOR F ULL HIKING DETAILS TO RED REEF TRAIL 25. BABYLON ARCH - Red Cliffs Desert Reserve TRAIL STATS Beginner/Intermediate 2.9 miles round trip 331 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Epic views, an epic sandhill, and an epic arch make this trail such a fun adventure with kids. At 2.9 miles round trip, The only issue is the trail isn't as well marked as it could be, and the arch can be a little hard to find. Take a gps with you to make sure you stay on the trail if this is your first time.  CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS TO BABYLON ARCH   26. YANT FLATS - Dixie National Forest TRAIL STATS Intermediate 3.4 miles round trip 337 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS The other wordly Yant Flats begins with a short 1.5-mile hike through the woods before reaching open terrain of swirling smooth rock formations that spill out for miles. The landscape can be steep at times, and there are cliffs to be aware of, but the sticky rock will allow kids to adventure across much of the area with a little hand holding from mom & dad. Beware that the road getting out to Yant Flat is an 8-mile bumpy dirt road. It is a pretty intense drive if you are not used to dirt roads.    CLICK HERE FOR F ULL HIKING DETAILS TO YANT FLAT   27. WATER CANYON - Cannan Mountain Wilderness TRAIL STATS Advanced 4.25 miles round trip 500 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This hidden gem of a hike located just outside of Hildale, UT has a shallow year-round creek and a rocky waterfall oasis at the end. You can venture on past the waterfall, but this isn’t advised with young kids. At 3.5 miles round trip the trail can be a little more advanced due to the moderate elevation gain and tricky rock scrambling.  CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS TO WATER CANYON 28. CASCADE FALLS - Duck Creek Village TRAIL STATS Beginner/Intermediate 1.2 miles round trip 150 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This short hike still delivers stunning views overlooking Zion National Park and a waterfall! Cascade Falls is a rare type of waterfall that starts in Navajo Lake, drains through a lava tube, flows straight out of a cave on the side of a mountain, and cascades down steep cliffs into the Virgin River. The gravel path is lined with stairs and benches where you can rest with the kiddos during the steeper parts. This is a family-friendly hike, but keep your little ones close. The gravel tends to be slippery, and there are some steep drop-offs to watch out for.  CLICK HERE FOR FULL HIKING DETAILS FOR CASCADE FALLS 29. HIDDEN HAVEN - Brian Head, UT TRAIL STATS Intermediate/Advanced 1.2 miles round trip 275 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS Hidden Haven is one of the best waterfall hikes in southern Utah , and it’s fairly family friendly. But flooding has washed out parts of the trail so now it can be a little sketchier in places. The trail follows a creek for a while along a mostly shady trail. Soon you’ll start hiking over rocks with a bit of minor scrambling. Keep an eye on your kids here and be ready to lend a hand in the tricky sections. Finally,  you’ll come to the end where you’ll esperience the unique sight of water flowing down the blocky, angular rocks of Hidden Haven. Local tip: Do this hike in the spring if you want to see the waterfall flowing. 30. RAMPARTS TRAIL - Cedar Breaks National Monument TRAIL STATS Intermediate/Advanced 4 miles round trip 393 feet elevation gain TRAIL DETAILS This trail heads along the South Rim of Cedar Breaks National Monument, also known as the“Circle of the Painted Cliffs.” You’ll hit the Spectra Viewpoint at about 1 mile in, and the Ramparts Viewpoint after 2 miles. Both overlooks offer amazing views of the naturally-formed rock coliseum and its colorful arches and hoodoos. Keep in mind that the trail heads down to the viewpoints, so you might have to encourage the kiddos a little more on the way back up. 31. ASHDOWN GORGE TRAIL STATS Intermediate Go in as far as you want. 2 miles to the waterfalls TRAIL DETAIL If you’re looking for things to do in Cedar City, Utah, you can’t beat Ashdown Gorge…especially if you're trying to beat the heat in Southern Utah ! Ashdown Gorge is a wonderful hike through a canyon along a creek where you can cool off. There’s even a fun waterfall to splash in. While the whole hike is 10 miles one way (it goes all the way to Cedar Breaks), most people make this an 8.8 mile out and back to the where the canyon opens up. You can also choose to turn around at any time if the kiddos get tired. Ashdown Gorge is located outside of Cedar City off of Highway 14 up Cedar Canyon, so it’s a good place to get away from the crowds in Zion. Tips for Hikes in Southern Utah with Kids Plan for trails to take longer with the kiddos than estimates you might find online. Going slow, especially on the more advanced hikes, is usually the way to go. Bring lots of snacks and water! These are essential not only for keeping everyone fueled and hydrated, but yummy snacks also make great motivation when the kiddos are complaining. :) Packing a sack lunch is also a good idea on the longer hikes, and many of these trails have lovely spots for a lunch break. Don’t forget sun protection –sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, etc. The desert sun is no joke, and you definitely don’t want to ruin your family trip to Southern Utah because the kiddos get sunburned. Always keep an eye on the weather! If it’s a hot day, you’ll want to seek the shady trails, but if rain is in the forecast, you should not go into the canyons. You can also avoid the heat by getting an early start in the morning. We hope you have such a great time hiking your way though Zion and Southern Utah. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • 23 Incredible Things to Do in St. George, Utah

    Located in the southwest corner of the state, St. George, Utah is a beautiful city with a population of approximately 200,000 residents. Known for its stunning red sandstone cliffs, the area offers exciting outdoor recreation opportunities for both the seasoned hiker and beginner. With so many things to do in St George,  Utah, this exciting city is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Notably, it's conveniently situated just an hour's drive away from the iconic Zion National Park, adding to the city's appeal. How To Get To St George, Utah St. George Regional Airport -  This small but mighty airport is located only 20 minutes from the city center, southeast of  town. There are fewer flight options but if you’re lucky enough to find a good flight, the convenience is unmatched. Las Vegas Airport -  With ample flight options and the chance to score a great deal on tickets, Harry Reid International Airport  in Las Vegas is another great option for travelers looking to visit St George, Utah. The airport is located only 1 hour 45 minutes from the city center, making for an easy drive on well maintained roads. Pro tip -  Stop off at Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada to make it a full road trip experience! Salt Lake City Airport -  While not quite as convenient as the previous two options, driving in from the north is also an option for visitors looking to see more of Utah. St George is located 4 hours south of Salt Lake City International Airport. When Is The Best Time To Visit St George, Utah? With an average of over 300 sunny days per year and only approximately 8 inches of rain annually, you’ll find things to do in St George, Utah in every season. Even in the winter, it rarely snows! ☀️Summer In St George, Utah (June-September) Summer is the busy season in Southern Utah. Plan for hot weather- temperatures average highs around 100F and lows around 75F. If you’re planning on exploring outside, aim for earlier in the day to beat the heat. When the heat gets to be too much, there are plenty of things to do in St George, Utah indoors to beat the heat.  🍁🌼Spring & Fall In St George, Utah (April & May, October & November) Spring and fall are the sweet spots for weather in St George. The area is less crowded than during the summer months and temperatures are milder. Average temperatures range from highs between 70-80F and lows around 50-60F. Mornings and evenings are chillier, but the afternoon warms up quickly, making this an excellent time to visit for those looking to explore outside.  ❄️Winter In St George, Utah (December- March) Winter is the off-season in St George, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit! Perks for visiting in the winter are the potential for lower rates on lodging and adventures, and the opportunity to have the parks almost to yourself. Keep in mind, this is Southern Utah, so even though it’s winter, the average high temperatures are around 55F and lows around 35F. This makes for great hiking weather, and hiking is one of the best things to do in St George, Utah. CLICK FOR MORE INFO 21 Awesome Things To Do In St George, Utah With such beautiful weather year round and so many incredible things to do in and around St George, I have created a list of 21 things to do on your visit to this beautiful little town in Southern Utah. 1. St George City Parks 2. Where To Eat in St George, Utah 3. Check Out Snow Canyon State Park 4. E-Bike Rentals in St. George 5. Lodging in St George, Utah 6. Explore Zion National Park 7. Take a Day Trip To Bryce Canyon National Park 8. Visit Valley of Fire State Park 9. Visit the Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City 10. Spend a Day in Duck Creek, Utah 11. Family Friendly Activities and Museums in St. George 12. Hike in the Red Cliffs National Reserve 13. Enjoy the Water at Sand Hollow State Park 14. Get Off The Beaten Path in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion 15. See a stunning waterfall at Gunlock State Park 16 - Visit Veyo Pool and Crawdad Canyon 17 - Take An ATV/UTV Sand Dune Tour 18. Experience Water Fun at Quail Creek State Park 19. Visit Cathedral Gorge State Park (Nevada) 20. Take a day trip to Cedar Breaks National Monument 21. Go cliff jumping at Lake Powell/Glen Canyon Recreation Area 22. Make Jewlery at The Gem Studio 23. Take a Day Trip to Grand Canyon 1. St George City Parks With such exciting state and national parks in the area, it could be easy to overlook the smaller city parks. This would be a huge mistake, especially for families with kids as St George has some epic city parks! Pioneer Park, located on the north side of the city in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve is home to the St George Narrows, Powell Eagle Nest, and the Dixie Sugarloaf. There aren’t any true trails to hike, but the rock scrambling and exploring will keep kids busy for hours. St George, Utah is also home to Thunder Junction All Abilities Park. This unique park features playground equipment, climbing walls, a splash pad, and a train to ride. The best part is that everything at Thunder Junction is wheelchair accessible making it fun for all visitors. With so many things to do in St George, Utah parks, your kids will have the best time. ****Homemake biscuits and jam from Wood Ash Rye 2. Where To Eat in St George, Utah When you’re done exploring and need to refuel, St George has you covered. Visit Morty’s Cafe  for a gourmet burger and fries. While I love the Hawaiian with some sweet potato fries, they also have excellent vegetarian options.  For something a little fancier, Cliffside Restaurant  offers upscale American cuisine with scenic views of the city that can’t be beat.  For some comfort food, Wood Ash Rye in downtown St. George offers breakfast, brunch, and dinner all feature regionally sourced ingredients used in creative dishes. Farmstead  is another favorite in St George, Utah. This European-style bakery has the most delicious sandwiches and baked goods with seating both inside and out. Soaking up the beautiful weather with a nice pastry on the patio is one of my favorite things to do in St George, Utah.  3. Check Out Snow Canyon State Park Snow Canyon State Park   is a locals’ hidden gem and one of the best things to do in St George, Utah. Trust me, anywhere besides Utah, this beautiful park would be in the running for National Park status.  Running around the Petrified Sand Dunes is one of the most fun things to do in St George, Utah, and kids will love it. Jenny’s Canyon, while not a true slot canyon, is a short and sweet hike with a big reward. The faux slot canyon makes for great rock scrambling and epic pictures.  Lava Flow Trail treats you to the unique geological formation of lava tubes. These lava tubes formed when the outer surface of a lava flow cooled and hardened while the lava inside continued to flow downhill. Eventually all of the lava flowed out, leaving cave-like tubes for you to explore. Don’t forget a flashlight if you plan to explore inside the lava tubes- it’s really dark! This is one of the most unique things to do in St George, Utah, and you won’t want to miss it. Some other favorites for hiking, exploring, and beautiful photo-ops are White Rocks, Cinder Cone Trail, and Pioneer Names. Day-use passes  can be purchased online or at the entrance gate for $15 for non-residents and $10 for Utah residents.   4. E-Bike Rentals in St. George When you are in St George, Utah with kids, renting e-bikes is a must. Located right outside the Snow Canyon State Park entrance, Rampage Rentals  offers reasonably priced daily e-bike rentals. You can ride directly from the rental parking lot, into the park, and through the canyon making this a super accessible adventure.  Kids especially love how fast they get to go on e-bikes (up to 25mph!) You will need to pay the park entrance fee or show your day-use pass at the gate even if you are cycling in. Don’t miss one of my favorite things to do in St George, Utah! 5. Lodging in St George, Utah When you’re looking for where to stay in St George, Utah, the city has plenty of lodging options, but for those seeking something unique, check out the boutique hotel Inn on the Cliff . Each room at this beautifully renovated hotel features stunning views of the city below, but for the best view, in my opinion, hit up the four season hot tub and take in a gorgeous perspective of St George while you relax after a long day of hiking.  The Cliffside Restaurant is on site and is an excellent option for a nice dinner, or put on the pjs and have them bring it straight from the kitchen to your room! A set menu room service breakfast is also provided by the hotel and is best enjoyed on your balcony as you watch the sun rise. The Advenire  in St. George is another great option. This boutique hotel has a gorgeous modern pioneer aesthetic…plus a rooftop terrace and Wood Ash Rye restaurant. If sleeping under the stars is a bit more your speed, check out these 8 Glamping Options   located near St George, Utah and Zion National Park. 6. Explore Zion National Park Spend a day or two exploring Zion National Park  while visiting St. George, Utah. With epic hikes among the sandstone cliffs, the Virgin River to cool off in, and wildlife like mule deer and bighorn sheep to spot, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Like St George, Zion is great to visit in all seasons , even in winter! The Zion shuttle  runs most of the year, but for a few months every winter, visitors get the unique opportunity to drive through the canyon. My favorite adventure-filled hikes in Zion include Clear Creek , The Narrows , Canyon Overlook , and Observation Point . Distance From St George The Springdale entrance to Zion National Park is only 1 hour away from St. George, west along UT-9. 7. Take a Day Trip To Bryce Canyon National Park When visiting Southern Utah, a road trip  to Bryce Canyon National Park is always a great idea. Visiting Bryce is a quick and easy day trip from St George, Utah.  If you’re only spending one day in the park, make sure to check out my favorite family-friendly hike, Navajo Loop Trail . Bryce Canyon National Park is especially beautiful in winter . The contrast of white snow against the red hoodoos is not to be missed. Distance From St George Bryce Canyon National Park is only 2 hours and 15 minutes away traveling approximately 85 miles northeast on I-15, then an additional 60 miles on UT-20 E. 8. Visit Valley of Fire State Park  Valley of Fire State Park is located about halfway between Las Vegas and St George, Utah, making it a perfect day trip destination or stop on your way to Utah from Las Vegas. After stopping at the visitor center, make sure to check out my favorite hikes and sights- Elephant Rock, Fire Wave, White Domes, and Atlatl Rock (where you’ll get up close and personal to some amazing petroglyphs!) CHECK OUT OUR RECENT BLOG POST FOR ALL THE DETAILS Entrance Fees for Valley of Fire State Park are $15 for non-residents and $10 for Nevada residents. The park also boasts 2 campgrounds (72 total sites) with tables, grills, water, and restrooms.  **Please be aware, Valley of Fire State Park can get HOT in the summer. Hiking in high heat is dangerous- even on short hikes. Stay hydrated!! Distance From St George Valley of Fire State Park is located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes southwest of St George, Utah in Moapa Valley, Nevada along I-15.  9. Visit the Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City The Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City is one of the oldest and largest Shakespeare festivals in North America. The plays are only for ages 7 and up, but child care is offered for the little ones. Held in the courtyard next to the Engelstate theater this free 30-minute   Greenshow  is fun entertainment for the whole family. The show includes music, dance, juggling, and puppets. My kids loved the show so much, and I loved that it was free......haha!!!  Along with cooler in temperature, Cedar City has a ton of family-friendly activities in town and close to town, making it the perfect summer destination. In the winter Cedar City is also a great place to visit for some family winter fun. Distance From St George At only 50 minutes north east on I-15, Cedar City is easily accessible by car.  10. Spend a Day in Duck Creek, Utah  Just an hour and a half away from St George, Duck Creek is another perfect day trip. Whether you are looking to beat the summer heat , or are a  winter weather enthusiast , the village of Duck Creek has you covered. My favorite summertime hike near Duck Creek is Cascade Falls . This easy 1.2-mile out and back trail treats you to epic views and a stunning waterfall. In the winter, Duck Creek is the perfect town to soak in those snowy winter vibes with snow tubing, snowshoeing, sledding, and even snowmobile rental.  Distance From St George At only 1 hour and 30 minutes northeast of St George, along I-15 and UT-14, the village of Duck Creek, Utah makes for a great day trip. 11. Family Friendly Activities and Museums in St. George When the kids tire from all the hiking (it happens to the best of us!), St George has the answer.  The St George Dinosaur Discovery Site  is the perfect spot to take your budding paleontologist. Add this to your list of things to do in St George, Utah if it happens to rain or the heat gets to be too much since all of the fossil exhibits are indoors. The St George Children's Museum  offers hands-on exhibits for kids that mimic real-life scenarios. Kids' imaginations take over as they pretend to milk a cow, fly a plane, shop for groceries, and even battle a dragon. Watching Broadway Theatre under the Utah stars…yes, please! At the Tuacahn Amphitheatre  you can enjoy Broadway shows, live concerts, and more all against the red rock backdrop that makes Southern Utah so iconic. 12. Hike in the Red Cliffs National Reserve   Red Cliffs National Reserve might be my favorite hidden gem in Southern Utah. Between hiking Babylon Arch , hiking Red Reef Trail , seeing the Dinosaur Footprints , and visiting the Red Cliffs Archeological Site , you really get a LOT in one area.  While it wasn’t love at first hike, Babylon Arch has become a hike that I love to take. The trail is filled with beautiful red rock formations, stunning views of the Virgin River, a fun sand hill for the kids to play on, and, as the name suggests, a super cool arch. Red Reef Trail is a hike that I take nearly everyone who visits Southern Utah on. This 3 mile hike is fun with or without kids. It boasts stunning red rock formations, arches, petroglyphs, a creek to play in, and a tree stump that looks like an elephant.  From the same parking area as Red Reef Trail, you can also access a super quick hike to some real fossilized dinosaur footprints and visit an Ancestral Puebloan archaeological site. Both sites have well marked signage for curious kids (and adults) to learn about Southern Utah’s rich history.  Red Cliffs National Reserve is part of the Bureau of Land Management and charges a small $5 day-use fee for access. You can also use your National Parks Pass for entrance.   Distance From St George The Red Cliffs National Reserve is only 25 minutes from St George in nearby Hurricane, Utah. Pair this with a visit to Sand Hollow State Park for a fun-filled day! 13. Enjoy the Water at Sand Hollow State Park Sand Hollow State Park  is located in the heart of the Hurricane Valley  and is the perfect escape for those hot summer days. With the Sand Hollow Reservoir as the star, this park caters to all outdoor enthusiasts. On the south side of the lake, kids will enjoy splashing in the shallow water and building sand castles, while on the north side, the more adventurous can climb on the red rocks, swim, and even cliff jump! To keep the adrenaline flowing, you can also rent paddleboards, kayaks, ATVs, and UTVs. Distance From St George Sand Hollow State Park is located 25 minutes from St George, Utah on the southwest side of the town of Hurricane. 14. Get Off The Beaten Path in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion Kolob Canyons  is tucked into the northwest corner of Zion National Park. Soaring cliffs of red Navajo Sandstone and breathtaking views are the highlight along a stunning 5-mile scenic drive. The canyons are easily accessed from Interstate 15. Kolob sits at 6,000 feet, meaning that summer temperatures are usually 10 degrees cooler than St George. Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Kolob Canyons are Taylor Creek and Timber Creek Overlook. Taylor Creek is a 5-mile round trip trail with minimal elevation gain. It also has a stream to cool off in, 2 historic cabins along the trail, and a stunning double arch alcove at the end.  At the end of the scenic Kolob Canyon Road, Timbercreek Overlook Trail is one-mile round trip. This trail is short and easy with minimal elevation gain and stunning views all along the trail. Distance From St George The Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park is only 30 minutes north on I-15 from St George, Utah. 15. See a stunning waterfall at Gunlock State Park Gunlock State Park is home to one of the most amazing   waterfalls in southern Utah , where water cascades down tiers of red rocks. Gunlock Falls runs in the spring, but not every year, so it draws crowds when it does. Even when the falls aren’t flowing, enjoying the water at Gunlock Reservoir is a fun way to spend a day in a southern Utah state park. Gunlock State Park is always a great destination for playing on the water in Gunlock Reservoir. You can go swimming, boating, or SUPing in the warm water, and make a day of it with a picnic on the beach. Distance from St George Gunlock State Park is around a half hour northwest of the town of St. George, UT or a little over an hour if you’re coming from Springdale. 16 - Visit Veyo Pool and Crawdad Canyon Surrounded by towering jagged basalt rock and a shady stream filled with catch and release crawdads, Veyo Pool and Crawdad Canyon is the perfect summer destination with the family. I take my kiddos here at least once a summer! There are fun surprises placed in the sides of the pool like a 2 dollar bill, a bat skeleton, a baby turtle and many more surprises covered in acrylic and hidden for little divers to find.   Read more about visiting Veyo Pool & Crawdad Canyon here. Distance from St George Located 15 minutes north of St George this natural spring pool stays at a comfortable 87 degrees and is emptied and refilled every evening with fresh new water from the natural spring on the property. 17 - Take An ATV/UTV Sand Dune Tour Explore miles and miles of sand dunes, zoom down sand hills, and take in expansive and stunning views. The ultimate family adventure is an ATV ride in the soft red desert sand of Southwestern Utah. The sand dunes at Sand Hollow in Hurricane are absolutely stunning and so much fun to explore. The best way to see all that the dunes have to offer is by booking a guided tour. The guides will show you the most breathtaking sites along the best paths and are very concerned about safety. There are plenty of ATV/UTV guide companies in the Hurricane & St George area to choose from. TOQUERVILLE FALLS TOUR WITH MAD MOOSE RENTALS This past summer My 3 kiddos and I went on the ATV tour to Toquerville Falls with Blake of   Mad Moose Rentals  and its was the most fun and memorable adventure of our summer. We started at their location at Quail Lake (20 minutes from St George)  and drove the backroads of Southern Utah to the waterfalls. It was a stunning and action packed drive and I felt like a total badass navigating the rocky roads. It was so much fun! The drive took a little over an hour and by the time we got to the falls we were covered, head to toe in fine dust. Jumping in the cool water at the falls was the perfect way to wash off and cool down. We jumped from the top fall to the bottom, swam, splashed and played in the water for about 30 minutes and then headed back. The drive was shorter on the way back but just about as dusty. I love that their location is right next to the lake. We got out and immediately ran over and jumped in the lake to wash off the dust. My kiddos were in heaven! Make sure to reach out to   Mad Moose Rentals  to experience this fun waterfall ATV adventure. 18. Experience Water Fun at Quail Creek State Park Another one of the state parks close to St George with a spectacular reservoir to splash around in is Quail Creek State Park. The scenery of red rocks against the water here is beautiful, and there are activities for everyone, ranging from hiking to biking to swimming to boating. FUN ACTIVITIES The water at Quail Creek State Park is warm and great for swimming along the rocky shoreline. You can also paddleboard or kayak on the reservoir. Quail Creek also offers several trails for hikers and mountain bikers to explore more of this southern Utah state park. Quail Creek Overlook Trail is a nice moderate 5-mile out & back trail with great views. You can also go boating or fishing (or both!) on Quail Creek Reservoir. There are two boat ramps, and the lake is stocked with fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and rainbow trout. St George Aqua Adventures offers a waterpark experience at Quail Lake. A fun and refreshing experience for visitors of all ages, this water park features trampolines, water slides, an obstacle course, and swings. In addition to the water attractions, there are also plenty of areas for sunbathing and lounging, as well as a concession stand for snacks and refreshments.  Distance From St George Quail Creek State Park is located just 20 minutes east of St George off Hwy 9. 19. Visit Cathedral Gorge State Park (Nevada) At   Cathedral Gorge State Park  in Nevada, you’ll find tons of cool clay spires that are quite different from the typical red sandstone towers of the desert. The cream-colored spires in the park were formed from a volcanic eruption that took place over a million years ago. Each time it rains, the spires erode and reshape so the landscape of Cathedral Gorge will never be exactly the same. FUN HIKES & ACTIVITIES One of the best places to explore in Cathedral Gorge is right near the parking area. By the water tower here,  you’ll discover a maze of caves, slot canyons, and spires which are really fun for the whole family to wander around. For an actual hike that’s family-friendly, head out on Miller Point Trail, which is about 2 miles round trip. You’ll get an excellent view back down the whole canyon from Miller Point Overlook. Distance From St George Cathedral Gorge State Park is a 1 hour 40 minute drive northwest from Saint George, across the state border in Nevada. 20. Take a day trip to Cedar Breaks National Monument Cedar Breaks National Monument is a local gem in the area. The monument, sometimes called the “Circle of the Painted Cliffs,” is a naturally-formed rock coliseum with colorful arches, hoodoos, and canyons. Ancient bristlecone pine trees also dot the spectacular landscape. FUN HIKES & ACTIVITIES The hike to Alpine Pond showcases the varied terrain in Cedar Breaks. It’s a 2-mile loop trail which runs through forest and meadows and features lots of excellent views of the incredible rock formations. After reaching the pond, the trail passes by some ancient bristlecone pine groves on the way back. Since Cedar Breaks National Monument sits at a higher elevation than the Zion area – around 10,000 feet – it’s a great place to escape the heat in summer or find the snow in winter. You can snowshoe or cross-country ski on the trails at Cedar Breaks, or go snowmobiling on a trail that runs along Utah Highway 148. Distance From St George Cedar Breaks National Monument is located 1 hour 30 minutes north east of St George.  21. Go cliff jumping at Lake Powell/Glen Canyon Recreation Area Created by the Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell is a massive reservoir consisting of a chain of flooded canyons that is an absolute blast to explore! The recreation area straddles the state border of Utah and Arizona, and is a great day trip from St George FUN HIKES & ACTIVITIES My favorite spot to play at   Lake Powell is The Chains area . While lots of places on Lake Powell require a boat to explore, you don’t need one to have fun here. You can swim and splash in the water, go cliff jumping, or hike and scramble around the red rocks. If you do want to see more of Lake Powell, you can take a boat tour to explore further into the canyon. You can also rent kayaks and SUPs at many areas around the lake or paddle to Antelope Canyon and hike up the slot canyon. One of the coolest places to explore by boat or kayak is Cathedral in the Desert. This unique site was once hidden underwater but has since emerged. Distance from St George Lake Powell is located across the state border in Arizona south of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It’s about a 2-hour 40 minute drive west of St George.  22. Make Jewlery at The Gem Studio I love buying jewelry as a souvenir when traveling but this is even better. At The Gem Studio get to learn how to make the jewelry, have such a fun experience making memories with your people and you end up with a totally stunning and custom piece of jewelry to remember your trip to St. George/Southern Utah! When I went in with my three kiddos our awesome expert silversmiths lead us through a 3 hour workshop where we all made necklaces from scratch....SO FUN!!! You can make rings, bracelets, charm bracelets, pendants, and earrings, permanent jewelry The price is $75 + the gem you choose + any optional additions you choose. The typical price is between $125-$150.  They are reservation based so you will need to book in advance to ensure that you can reserve enough spots for you and your party. 23. Take a Day Trip to The North Rim of the Grand Canyon When visiting Kanab, a day trip to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is a must. With cooler temps, epic views, and great hiking there will be plenty to keep the whole family entertained for the day. On your drive, you have to make a stop at Jacob Lake Inn Gift Shop for their world famous cookies. Seriously you guys, the best cookies I have ever had! ***Please note that the North Rim is closed in the winter starting November 30th (earlier if there is a big storm) and does not usually open for the summer until May 15th. WHY VISIT THE NORTH RIM If you’re staying near Zion in southern Utah, the North Rim is a significantly shorter drive than the South Rim. Plus, it is at higher altitude, so it’s a great escape when you’re in search of some cooler temps. On the way to the North Rim, you’ll pass Jacob Lake Inn, which is a MUST stop for the world’s best cookies…seriously! If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of wild bison in the big meadow just outside the North Rim park entrance. It’s totally worth it to wake up early and hike to Bright Angel Point for a truly spectacular sunrise. For an equally awesome sunset, take a drive down Cape Royal Road. Walking into the Grand Canyon Lodge at the North Rim will take your breath away when you see the incredible views out the huge windows. And you can’t take a trip to the North Rim without sitting on the patio next to the lodge and watching the sunset over the canyon…ideally while sipping a margarita from the Rough Rider Saloon Distance from St George The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is about a 2-hour 30 minute drive southeast of St George.  St. George has become a favored spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of day trips, beautiful hikes, and exciting activities. This charming Utah town serves as an ideal home base for those embarking on Southern Utah Adventures. I hope this post inspires you to add a stay in this beautiful Southern Utah city! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • 20 Reasons Why Kanab, Utah Should Be Your Next Family Vacation

    Tucked into the Southwest corner of Utah is a charming little town surrounded by beautiful red rock cliffs and wide open desert. Kanab, Utah, is one of the best little towns in Southern Utah to make your home base when planning a family vacation to Zion National and the surrounding areas of southern Utah. This little town has the best small-town vibe, excellent lodging options, great places to eat, and is central to tons of great hiking and things to do with kids.   Plus, it’s so easy to get from Kanab, Utah to Zion National Park! With three national parks and two beautiful state parks close by, you could spend days, even weeks exploring in and around Kanab without running out of things to do with your kiddos! It really is a great little town . HOW TO GET TO KANAB One of the most popular ways to get to Kanab is to fly into Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas , rent a car and drive 3 hours. Driving from Las Vegas to Kanab, Utah, you can stop at Valley of Fire State Park & Snow Canyon State park to break up the drive and see some stunning sights on your drive. The next closest major airport is Salt Lake City . Salt Lake is a 5.5-hour drive from Kanab. Flying into Salt Lake will allow you to turn your vacation into a road trip! First, go through Moab and hit up Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Then head south and stop at Goblin Valley State Park and Capitol Reef National Park. You can also fly into the Saint George Regional airport . This airport is much smaller with minimal flight options, but if you can find one that works for you, the time savings and convenience will be a huge bonus. It is a 1 hr 30-minute drive from Saint George to Kanab. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KANAB? Kanab is excellent in all seasons, even winter. Actually, it might be at it's best in the winter! Kanab averages 256 days of sunshine each year so chances are pretty good you are going to get some sunshine anytime of the year you visit. ☀️SUMMER IN KANAB (June - September) There's no beating around the bush, summer in Kanab is hot. This is a busy time to visit Kanab/Southern Utah but not so busy that you can't escape the crowds. Crowds die down a little in August and September when kids start going back to school. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE Temps from June - August are 100+, sometimes evening getting up to 110 degrees but don't let that stop you. Just head to Lake Powell or to Duck Creek to cool off. Getting out first thing in the morning is also a great way to beat the heat. 🌼🍁SPRING AND FALL IN KANAB (Oct, Nov, April & May) Spring and Fall in Kanab are beyond perfect. This tends to be a more busy time to visit because of the perfect temps . Mornings and evenings are cool but temps warm up nicely during the day. It is perfect hiking weather. ❄️WINTER IN KANAB (November-March) This is the least busy time to visit Kanab/Southern Utah. Rates for lodging will be lower and you will have more solitude while out hiking. Holiday weekends are an exception. If the weather is nice, it gets especially busy. Winter temps in Kanab are very mild. It generally snows 2-3 times a year, but the snow doesn't stick around for long. Often temperatures barely drop below 30 degrees, and when it does, the sun is usually still shining. Average temps during the day range from 49-55 degrees. The adventure opportunities in Kanab are endless. I have put together a list of my top 20 reasons that Kanab should be at the top of your list for your next family vacation. So let's get to it! Table Of Contents East entrance to Zion National Park is 35 minutes away Bryce Canyon National Park is 1 hour 20 minutes away Great kid friendly hiking near Kanab The Kanab Visitor Center North Rim of Grand Canyon is one hour 45 minutes away Kanab Utah restaurants offer tons of great food options Great museums and kid-friendly activities right in town Lake Powell is 1 hour away Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for animal lovers Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is 30 minutes away Tons of Great Guided Adventures to choose from Horseshoe Bend is 1 hr 10 mins away Antelope Canyon 1 hr 20 mins away Snow Canyon State Park is 1 hour 30 minutes away Kanab has tons of unique family friendly lodging Red Cliffs National Reserve is 1 hr 15 mins away Duck Creek Village is 1 hour away Cedar Breaks is 1 hour 20 minutes away Kolob Canyons is 1 hour 30 minutes away Great Family Friendly Events in Kanab, UT 1 - East entrance to Zion National Park is 35 minutes away Spend a day or two in Zion National Park hiking among the soaring sandstone cliffs, playing in the Virgin River, and spotting wildlife like mule deer and bighorn sheep. Kanab, Utah to Zion National Park is just over half an hour drive, so it’s super convenient to make Kanab your home base when you visit. My favorite kid-friendly hikes in Zion include Riverside Walk Trail , Canyon Overlook , The Narrows , Clear Creek , Lower Pine Creek Falls, Emerald Pools, and Sand Bench Loop . RELATED POST - Hiking Zion with Kids: The Ultimate Guide 2 - Bryce Canyon National Park is 1 hour 20 minutes away A day trip from Kanab, Utah to Bryce Canyon National Park, land of hoodoos, is a must when visiting Southern Utah. When staying in Kanab, visiting Bryce is the perfect quick and easy day trip. One day in Bryce will give you plenty of time to check out our two favorite family-friendly hikes, Mossy Cave Trail, and Navajo Loop Trail . R ELATED POST - VISITING BRYCE IN THE WINTER - A ONE DAY ITINERARY 3- Great family-friendly hiking near Kanab Along with all the great hiking you can do in the surrounding National Parks, there are a ton of great trails in and around Kanab that are beautiful and family-friendly. Here are my favorite family-friendly hikes in Kanab, Utah. BELLY OF THE DRAGON - A short hike through a water culvert/tunnel. Located 25 minutes outside of Kanab. DINOSAUR TRACKS TRAIL - A 1 mile round trip hike a few minutes outside of Kanab where you get to hike to huge 185 million-year-old dinosaur tracks in well preserved slick rock outcrops. MOQUI CAVERNS / KANAB SAND CAVES - A short hike to beautiful light filled caves just 5 minutes outside of Kanab. WIRE PASS TRAIL - A 3 mile trail through a stunning slot canyon just 45 minutes outside of Kanab THE TOAD STOOLS - A 1.5 mile round trip hike to very cool rock formations in the desert just 45 minutes outside of Kanab SQUAW TRAIL - A 2 mile round trip hike to stunning views overlooking Kanab. Located right in town. THE NAUTILUS - A 1 mile round trip hike to a cool rock formation with a giant slide. 45 minutes outside Kanab. WATER CANYON - A 3.5 mile round trip hike to a lush desert oasis and stream for water play. Located 45 minutes from Kanab. RED HOLLOW - .5 mile hike to a small slot canyon. Located 40 minutes outside of Kanab. 4 - The Kanab Visitor Center If you don't have time to plan your trip ahead of time, no worries. One stop at the Kanab Visitor Center and you will be good to go. This visitor center has detailed brochures for all the hikes, activities and attractions in and around Kanab. These one-page brochures make it so easy to find where you are going and plan your activities accordingly. The staff at the Kanab visitor center is also invaluable at helping visitors figure out what to do and where to go. 5 - North Rim of Grand Canyon is 1 hour 45 minutes away When visiting Kanab, a day trip to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is a must. With cooler temps, epic views, and great hiking there will be plenty to keep the whole family entertained for the day. On your drive, you have to make a stop at Jacob Lake Inn Gift Shop for their world famous cookies. Seriously you guys, the best cookies I have ever had! ***Please note that the North Rim is closed in the winter starting November 30th (earlier if there is a big storm) and does not usually open for the summer until May 15th. CHECK OUT OUR DETAILED BLOG POST ALL ABOUT VISITING THE NORTH RIM OF THE GRAND CANYON 6 - Kanab , Utah restaurants have tons of great food options Being a small town, you wouldn't expect Kanab to have much to choose from as far as food options go, but they have a ton. It is seriously one of the reasons I love Kanab so much! Here are some of my favorite Kanab, Utah restaurants: For something quick and easy, we love Big Al's . It's a small-town frost stop with buffalo burgers, sweet potato fries, and yummy milkshakes. If you are a lover of fine food, then you don't want to miss the world-class Sego Restaurant . Sego serves diners a selection of regional new American cuisine with all the ingredients locally sourced and grown. It may not be the most kid-friendly option so grab them a fast-food hamburger and then head over to enjoy one of the best meals of your life. I will never stop craving the Artichoke and Foraged Mushroom toast!!! For coffee and amazing french pastries, hit up Kanab Creek Bakery . Wild Thyme is also an excellent option for a nice dinner. We have also tried Rockin V Cafe & Escobars Mexican Restaurant, and both were great. Asava Juice & Smoothies is a super healthy option, great for organic juice, smoothies, and toast. Brown Box Bake Shop an adorable bakeshop that has incredible grilled cheese sandwiches and is the perfect place to grab an ice cream when you’re craving a sweet treat. 7 - Great museums and kid-friendly activities right in town I love that there are so many things right in the heart of Kanab, Utah  to keep kids busy.   Heritage House Museum ,   Little Hollywood land , and   Jacob Hamblin Park  are just a few of the activities/attractions in Kanab that will entertain your littles and get their imaginations going. 8 - Lake Powell is 1 hour away Lake Powell, the largest man-made lake in North America, is widely known as one of the premier water-based destinations in the world. The activity options at Lake Powell are endless, and it’s just an hour away from Kanab . Rent a boat for the day, paddle board Antelope Canyon, go cliff jumping at The Chains, play along the shore at the Wahweep Marina, or go hiking and exploring the endless rugged water-and wind-carved canyons around the lake. PRO TIP - If you don't have a boat to play on the water, hit up The Chains. This area is the best spot to go cliff jumping, swim in Lake Powell, and still be surrounded by beautiful red rock. CHECK OUT OUR DETAILED BLOG POST ABOUT VISITING THE CHAINS – THINGS TO DO AT LAKE POWELL WITHOUT A BOAT 9 - Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for animal lovers This lifesaving haven for hundreds of adoptable animals on 3,700 stunning acres is located just five miles north of Kanab. READ ABOUT OUR EXPERIENCE VOLUNTEERING AT BEST FRIENDS! Sign up to take a free tour of the sanctuary and your kiddos will be in animal-loving heaven. It is the perfect morning or afternoon activity for the whole family. Click here to book your Best Friends Animal Sanctuary tour! 10 - Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is 30 minutes away Coral Pink Sand Dunes is a stunning state park located in between Kanab and Zion that is covered in fine red sand, perfect for sand boarding. Sand boarding is similar to snowboarding, which involves riding across or down a sand dune while standing on a board. Rent boards from the ranger station for $25, head across the street towards the dunes, kick off your shoes, and head for the hills. In the hot Southern Utah sun, it seems that the sand might be too hot for play, but it is surprisingly perfect towards the end of the day. Hike up the red sandhills, jump on the sled, and fly down. Repeat over and over again. The board will go faster or slower depending on the grade of the hill and whether or not it is waxed up properly. CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE TO VISITING CORAL PINK SAND DUNES!!! 11 - Kanab has tons of Great Guided Adventures to choose from There are so many amazing guided adventures to check out when staying in Kanab. The hardest part is choosing which one. Guided adventures in Kanab are a great way to experience new places with kids. These tours allow you to be more in the moment with your kiddos because your guide has everything taken care of regarding planning, timing, and safety. Here are my top picks for guided adventures with kids in the Kanab area. Via Ferrata with Roam Canyoneering with All Ways Adventure Peek-a-boo Slot Canyon ATV Tour with Kanab Tour Company Ultimate Adventure with Coral Pink ATV Tours White Mountain Horseback Ride with East Zion Adventures Great Chamber with Expedition Kanab Crimson Canyon Hike and UTV Adventure with East Zion Adventures Campfire S'mores and Stargazing Tour by Adventure Tour Company RELATED POST : The 12 Most Adventurous Things to Do in Kanab, Utah 13 - Antelope Canyon is 1 hr 20 mins away Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous slot canyons in the world and it is located less than an hour and a half from Kanab . The way the light hits the smooth swirly canyon is truly magical. You must purchase a guided tour to see this protected slot canyon. The tours are in the $130-$200 per person range and require advanced booking. They fill up quite far in advance, so if you want to see this stunning slot canyon, make sure to book tickets as soon as you know your travel dates. CHECK OUT OUR ZION NATIONAL PARK TO ANTELOPE CANYON ROAD TRIP GUIDE 14 - Snow Canyon State Park is 1 hour 30 minutes away Snow Canyon State Park is a hidden gem in Southern Utah, filled with great hiking, beautiful Navajo sandstone formations, ancient lava rock (basalt), and out-of-this-world views. It’s just a convenient 90 min drive from Kanab, Utah to Snow Canyon. It gets very hot during the day in the summer with very little shade, so plan your adventures in Snow Canyon for early morning or later in the afternoon. Our favorite family-friendly trails in the park are Jenny's Canyon, Petrified Dunes, Lava Tubes, and Butterfly Trail. READ OUR BLOG POST ALL ABOUT VISITING SNOW CANYON STATE PARK 15 - Unique Family Friendly Lodging in Kanab, Utah I'm a sucker for cool lodging and Kanab has a plethora of fun and unique places to stay. Here is a list of my favorites. BASECAMP37 Basecamp37 is a spacious, secluded but totally connected hideaway with, safari-style tents, luxury beds and linens, hot showers, even hotter grills, and friendly folks. There is a shared house on the property plus a common area for all the guests. The 5 tents on the property face nothing but open land and huge vistas. It is located 8 miles east of Kanab in the Chocolate Cliffs of the Grand Staircase under the magnificent Southern Utah sky. RELATED POST: Glamping near Zion National Park with Basecamp37° CAVE LAKES CANYON RANCH This is a unique new glamping property is tucked into a private canyon between Kanab and Orderville! The property features spring-fed ponds, cave lakes, beautifully designed glamping tents, and cabins all tucked into a stunning secluded private canyon. I can't get over how cool this property looks. RELATED POST: Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch - A Desert Oasis; Best Lodging in Southern Utah TIMBER AND TIN This mini resort located along main street is built on the homestead of the host's cowboy ancestors. Timber and Tin has all the amenities of a high-end resort but with peace and quiet of small town Kanab. The resort features 7 homes, a swimming pool, hot tub, a historic barn with games and a theater room, an outdoor picnic pavilion, and rooftop decks and fire pits for each home. RELATED POST: Timber and Tin Kanab – A Fantastic Family Getaway BEST FRIENDS ROADHOUSE AND MERCANTILE This is the ultimate place to stay with furry friends. While many hotels are pet-friendly, The Best Friends Roadhouse is the only pet-centric lodging in Kanab, Utah, or all of Southern Utah for that matter. The 40-room hotel is beautifully designed and features a fenced dog park, stunning murals, a splash zone, a washing station, slide-out pet beds, treats, and more. Your kiddos will be in animal-loving heaven. DARK SKY This boutique RV campground, located just three miles from the center of Kanab, sits on 40 acres of stunning desert landscape. Each of the 18 spacious sites offers unobstructed views to watch incredible sunrises and sunsets. The luxurious amenities include: Private bath suites Outdoor showers Outdoor kitchen with grill and pizza oven Open terrace lounge Meditative areas A dog park A kids' dig pit A 75' zipline Sites include a shade structure, dining table, low table, and propane firepit. RELATED POST: Best RV Park in Southern Utah; Dark Sky RV Resort in Kanab, Utah 16 - Red Cliffs National Reserve is 1 hr 15 mins away This small Desert Reserve is a fun, family-friendly location near Kanab. Red Cliffs National Reserve features great hiking, seasonal waterfalls, and beautiful red rock formations. Red Reef Trai l is a fan favorite. This trail is a short 3-mile round trip hike with minimal elevation gain, lots of cool spots for playing and exploring along the trail, and the rock climbing rope area near the end makes the hike feel truly adventurous. 17 - Duck Creek Village is 1 hour away Sitting at the edge of a large mountain meadow at an elevation of 8,400 feet Duck Creek Village is a thriving mountain community with shops, restaurants, lodges, inns, cabin rentals, and a campground. Duck Creek sits just an hour or so away from Kanab, and i t is a popular summer destination with hiking, fishing, camping, horseback riding, ATV riding, and mountain biking. In the winter it's great for a cozy winter getaway, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Don't miss Cascade Falls in the summer. This family-friendly hike is a one mile round trip hike to a 100-foot waterfall fed by Navajo Lake. Along this well-maintained family-friendly trail, you will see several varieties of plant life and incredible views of the Zion/Kolob Terrace. 18 - Cedar Breaks National Monument is 1 hour 20 minutes away Often referred to as a miniature Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks features a huge amphitheater with stone spires, columns, arches, pinnacles, and intricate canyons. Located in the mountains of Southern Utah and situated at 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks is shaped like a giant coliseum dropping 2,000 feet to its floor. Cedar Breaks is less than an hour and a half from Kanab, and t he monument is open from late May to mid-October, and the visitor center is open from mid-June to mid-September. Families are encouraged to stop by and check out the Junior Ranger Program or sign up for a ranger-guided hike. Our two favorite family-friendly trails are the Sunset Trail and the Alpine Pond Loop trail. PRO TIP - During the month of July the wildflowers are in full bloom, and they are absolutely stunning!!! 19 - Kolob Canyons is 1 hour 30 minutes away One of Zion's best kept secrets, Kolob Canyons is tucked into the northwest corner of Zion National Park. Soaring cliffs of red Navajo Sandstone and breathtaking views are the highlight along the stunning 5-mile Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive . The canyons are easily accessed from Interstate 15. Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Kolob Canyons are Taylor Creek and Timber Creek Overlook. PRO TIP - Kolob sits at 6,000 feet, meaning that summer temperatures are usually 10 degrees cooler than Kanab & Zion Canyon. 20 - Tons of Great Family-Friendly Events   in Kanab, Utah It seems like there is always something fun going on in Kanab. The event calendar is packed all year long with activities like Balloons and Tunes, Jacob Hamblin Days, Kanab 4th, and Western Legends. My kiddos and I attended the Balloons and Tunes Festival in February, and we had the best weekend. We loved the lantern festival and waking up each morning to watch the air balloons fill the sky. The Western Legends event looks amazing. The event is held in September and hosts a boot-shakin' country concert, western movie stars, and a legendary rodeo. You're invited to experience wild country melodies, heroic bull riders, and unmatched adventure. Kanab also knows how to celebrate 4th of July with all the small town charm. It's like straight out of the movies. Whether you have a few days or a week, Kanab has everything you need to plan a magical family vacation. With excellent hiking and endless adventure opportunities, there is something for everyone. Are you ready to book your spring break, winter break, or summer vacation? Happy Adventuring, Arika CHECK OUT THESE RELATED BLOG POSTS

  • Have a Blast with These Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park with Kids

    With summer vacation in full swing, I wanted to go on a little road trip with my kiddos, and Capitol Reef National Park seemed like the perfect destination for a road trip. It’s far enough away from Zion that we decided to spend a few days there to enjoy all the fun things to do in Capitol Reef. Capitol Reef National Park is known for the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long “geologic wrinkle on earth.” Even among all the amazing places in southern Utah , this is a unique landscape that is very cool to visit, and you’ll find lots more to explore in Capitol Reef, too. Capitol Reef with Kids Itinerary I highly recommend Capitol Reef National Park for a little family getaway. It offers a great mix of outdoor adventure in a cool landscape and time to chill and eat some tasty food. This post goes through the  itinerary for our 3-day trip featuring all sorts of fun things to do in Capitol Reef, including a great water hike, gorgeous sunsets, and the best burgers in the world! ITINERARY OVERVIEW DAY ONE 🔸Morning: Drive to Capitol Reef & Check into Skyview Hotel 🔸Early Afternoon: Get a Taste of Capitol Reef National Park 🔸Walk along Sulphur Creek and play in the park just down from Ripple Rock Nature Center. 🔸Late Afternoon: See the Sights Along Utah State Route 24 🔸Check out the historic Fruita Schoolhouse which was built in the 1890s 🔸Walk the beautiful wooden boardwalk and see a great assortment of Fremont Culture petroglyphs 🔸Dinner: Auténtico Street Tacos & Color Ridge Farm & Creamery 🔸Evening: Savor Sunset & S’mores at the Hotel DAY TWO 🔸Breakfast: The Wild Rabbit Cafe 🔸Morning: Sulphur Creek Canyon Hike. 6 miles one way from the trailhead down to the visitor center 🔸Lunch: Capitol Burger Food Truck. I can’t even stress enough how amazing these burgers are 🔸Afternoon: Chill at the Hotel 🔸Dinner: Tacos & Ice Cream 🔸Evening: Goosenecks Overlook & Panorama Point for Sunset.  DAY THREE 🔸Morning: Hickman Bridge Hike - 2 miles round trip 🔸Lunch: Pie at the Gifford Homestead 🔸Hike Sulpher Creek from the visitor center if you haven't already done the longer version How to Get From Zion National Park to Capitol Reef National Park It’s about a 3.5 hour drive to Capitol Reef from Zion National Park. Starting from Springdale, you can either take I-15 north then get on US-89 north or just head up US-89 the whole way. Eventually, you’ll branch off onto UT-62 for a bit to connect to UT-24 east, which will take you to the entrance of Capitol Reef. CLICK HERE TO GET MORE INFO TO BOOK A PHOTO SHOOT IN ZION NATIONAL PARK Capitol Reef is about 2 hours northeast of Bryce Canyon National Park, so you could add on a nice little road trip to Bryce  as well. Where to Stay: Skyview Hotel We stayed at Skyview Hotel  in the town of Torrey, just outside of Capitol Reef, and we loved the cool vibes here. Skyview features “design inspired by the destination,” and you can see that in the artwork in the rooms as well as the incredible views of the surrounding landscape, especially from the rooftop terrace. We stayed in a fantastic modern room, but they also have luxurious glamping domes for a unique experience. ***The View from our room It was also a super convenient spot to stay since Skyview is close to town and places to eat, and it’s just a quick 15 minute drive to get to Capitol Reef and quite a few other hikes nearby. Things to Do in Capitol Reef: Day 1 We spent the first day of our road trip getting the lay of the land and a taste of all the things to do in Capitol Reef. Morning: Drive to Capitol Reef & Check into Skyview Hotel We hit the road and made our way toward Capitol Reef. When we checked in at the Skyview Hotel, they had a couple of nice water bottles for us to use on our hikes and a basket of snacks set out + drinks in the fridge  for us, and my kiddos just loved that. Early Afternoon: Get a Taste of Capitol Reef National Park After we got settled, we headed to Capitol Reef to check it out. If you don’t have time for a long hike, you can explore the visitor center and play in the park just down from Ripple Rock Nature Center.  It's a lovely spot to walk along Sulphur Creek here, and I adored the big Cottonwood trees and grass field in this pretty park. This is such a great spot for a picnic if you grab lunch to go from one of the local restaurants. Late Afternoon: See the Sights Along Utah State Route 24 See more of the things to do in Capitol Reef with a drive along the scenic Utah State Route 24 through the park. Along the way, you can check out the historic Fruita Schoolhouse which was built in the 1890s. We picked a few apricots at the orchards  next to the school…they were just barely ripe enough but it was fun that we could try the fruit. We then continued up the road a mile to walk the beautiful wooden boardwalk and see a great assortment of Fremont Culture petroglyphs . It’s just a short walk, so it’s perfect for kiddos of all ages. Dinner: Auténtico Street Tacos & Color Ridge Farm & Creamery By then we were hungry, so we headed back to Torrey to try out Auténtico Street Tacos. The tacos were a perfect quick and easy dinner, and they were priced pretty well to feed the whole family. Plus, the taco truck was right next to the ice cream place, so of course we had to get a scoop at Color Ridge Farm & Creamery for dessert. Evening: Savor Sunset & S’mores at the Hotel We closed out our day by heading up to the rooftop terrace at Skyview, which is an amazing place to watch the sunset with a great big fire pit for roasting s’mores. The front desk even provides guests with a s’mores kit! Things to Do in Capitol Reef: Day 2 On our second day in Capitol Reef, we were feeling rested and ready to take on the biggest hike of our trip. Breakfast: The Wild Rabbit Cafe First, we stopped by The Wild Rabbit Cafe  to fuel up with breakfast (and a little caffeine). We really enjoyed the coffee, pastries, and breakfast burritos, and they also serve some tasty-looking sandwiches for lunch. But be aware that the cafe doesn’t open until 8am, so if you are in need of a latte earlier than that, you are out of luck. (At least Skyview does provide a coffee maker in the room to tide you over.) Morning: Sulphur Creek Canyon Hike Finally, it was time to really explore the cool landscape of Capitol Reef. The Sulphur Creek Canyon hike has been on my bucket list for awhile, since I just love water hikes  in the summer so much! This hike should be high on your list of things to do in Capitol Reef, too. The Sulphur Creek Canyon hike  is 6 miles one way from the trailhead down to the visitor center. If you are with a group, then you can park one car at the trailhead and one car at the visitor center to shuttle, but I hitched a ride from the visitor center back to my car.. Walking the 6 miles from the back from the visitor center to the trailhead would  be pretty brutal. ***We all wore Teva's for the hike and they worked great We  hit the trail at 10am and finished our hike at 1pm, which was fine for us, but in the dead of summer, I would recommend starting a little earlier than we did to beat the heat. The trail is dry and hot for the first mile before you hit Sulphur Creek. From there, it gets a lot better, as you follow the stream all the way through the canyon with stunning rock cliffs all around you. You’ll pass three waterfalls along the way, and some scrambling and climbing down the rocks is required. The scrambles were a little tricky in a few spots, but definitely doable for us, and I think they would be doable for most hikers if you just take your time. Although hearing that this hike was 6 miles made my kids nervous because they don’t love hiking, they actually ended up loving this hike so much! Once we got to the water, they were in heaven and had so much fun. (Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for the kiddos and yourself.) Note: The canyon is prone to dangerous flash floods, so DO NOT do this hike if there is rain in the forecast. Lunch: Capitol Burger Food Truck We definitely worked up an appetite on our big hike, and the Capitol Burger food truck seriously hit the spot for lunch. I can’t even stress enough how amazing these burgers are. My kids all said they were the best burgers they have ever had! Note: Capitol Burger is closed on Monday & Tuesday. Check the Capitol Burger Facebook page  for their updated hours & location each day. Afternoon: Chill at the Hotel After our 6 mile hike and big lunch, we definitely needed some down time at the hotel to just relax for a while. Luckily, Skyview has plenty of great spots to chill, both in the room and on the property. Dinner: More Tacos & Ice Cream When we were ready for dinner, we went back to Auténtico Street Tacos and topped off the meal with ice cream once again. It’s hard to resist when it’s right there! Evening: Goosenecks Overlook & Panorama Point for Sunset I wanted to find a stunning spot to watch the sunset, but after our day full of hiking, my kids were definitely not interested in any more hiking, so Goosenecks Overlook and Panorama Point was perfect. Panorama Point is right off the road, and Goosenecks Overlook is just 0.1 mile down the trail. If you’re not as tired as my kids were, you can hike a little farther (just 0.3 miles one way) to Sunset Point, which features a spectacular view of the Waterpocket Fold and more of the landscape. The whole area here is full of lots of exploring and climbing for the kids along with absolutely beautiful views. Things to Do in Capitol Reef: Day 3 We had just one more day to explore all the things to do in Capitol Reef, so we started with another hearty breakfast at The Wild Rabbit Cafe to get going. Morning: Hickman Bridge Hike Then we headed to Capitol Reef to do the Hickman Bridge hike. This hike is only 2 miles round trip, so it’s pretty doable with kids (even tired ones like mine), although it does have some elevation gain. It’s a beautiful hike to the Hickman Bridge natural arch, and you’ll pass a miniature arch along the way. Be sure to bring your sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat) because there is little to no shade on this trail. It gets really hot, so make sure you have plenty of water with you, too. Local tip: This is a popular hike and the parking area is small, so try to get to the trailhead before 8:30 am. We got there at 9am and barely got a parking spot. Lunch: Pie at the Gifford Homestead You can’t visit Capitol Reef without getting pie at Gifford Homestead! This historic old home is located in the Fruita valley just a mile down the road from the Capitol Reef visitor center. We snagged some of the coveted pie and ice cream and went over to the park to eat it al fresco. Note: The Gifford Homestead  is open daily to sell the famous pie and other goods from March 14 (Pi Day) to late November. Afternoon: Sulphur Creek Waterfall from the Visitor Center After the pie break, my kiddos still had a little energy, so I talked them into hiking from the visitor center along Sulphur Creek to the first waterfall. It’s only about a mile and a half round trip to the first waterfall from the visitor center, so this is a really great water hike if you don’t want to do the full 6 mile hike all the way down the canyon. Dinner: Capitol Burger…Again! On our way out of town, we just had to stop and get another burger at Capitol Burger…I am not exaggerating when I say these burgers are SO FREAKIN YUMMY!!!! More Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park This was a wonderful three day itinerary for me and my kiddos, but there are many more amazing things to do in Capitol Reef. Here are a couple awesome hikes that I’ve done on previous visits to Capitol Reef: Cassidy Arch While the Cassidy Arch Trail is fairly strenuous thanks to the 1000 feet of elevation gain over a 1-mile span, it’s totally worth it for the incredible views, colorful rock formations, and the amazing arch at the end. The whole trail is 3.5 miles round trip, and once you get through the super steep section, you will have amazing views the entire rest of the way as you head toward the arch. (Fun fact: The arch is actually named after Butch Cassidy , the famous Wild West outlaw who was from Utah.) Check out my blog post here for more details about hiking Cassidy Arch ! Capitol Gorge The Capitol Gorge Trail is a great moderate hike through the Waterpocket Fold along an old wagon path that was the main route through the area until the US-24 Scenic Drive was built. The distance of the hike just depends on how far you want to go, but most people will do somewhere between 2-4 miles round trip. One of the highlights of this hike is the Pioneer Register, a rock wall featuring the carved names and dates of visitors and settlers to the area in the 1800s and early 1900s. You’ll also encounter many natural potholes and water tanks in the rocks, and if you hike far enough, you’ll get a really nice view of the Golden Throne formation. Note: The Capitol Reef Scenic Drive Rehabilitation Project  has completely closed access (vehicle and pedestrian) to Capitol Gorge from spring of 2024 until the project is completed, which is expected to be in fall of 2024. I highly recommend this unique park for a fun and fulfilling family trip that you’ll cherish forever. Our 3-day itinerary is packed with exciting activities, from invigorating water hikes and breathtaking sunsets to indulging in the world's best burgers. Capitol Reef has something for everyone. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

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