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Planning the moment you ask your person to spend the rest of your lives together is a big deal. Naturally, you want the location to be special and everything to go down without a hitch. We get it! We think Zion National Park is one of the most epic places to pop the question, and if Zion is that place for you, read on for the four best locations to get that Zion magic. We also have a few tips to ensure the planning goes smooth as butter. THE FOUR MOST EPIC PLACES TO PROPOSE IN Zion National Park OBSERVATION POINT Observation Point is easily the most adventurous and epic place to propose in Zion National Park. The trail to the epic view is 6.3 miles round trip, making this location a true hiking adventure. The views at the overlook feature the west side of Zion Canyon and overlook Angels Landing. RELATED POST - HIKING EAST MESA TRAIL TO OBSERVATION POINT CANYON OVERLOOK This trail is 1.25 miles round trip, and the views at the overlook are nothing short of spectacular. The great thing about Canyon Overlook is how accessible it is for all adventure levels, but it is also very popular because it is such a short hike. We recommend proposing at sunrise to avoid the crowds. RELATED POST - HIKING CANYON OVERLOOK TRAIL IN ZION NATIONAL PARK ANGELS LANDING For a truly epic adventure, Angels Landing is the top pick but also the hardest logistics-wise. Now that Angels Landing requires a permit, a proposal here is a little more difficult, but it can still be done. Check the ZNP website for a the details for obtaining a permit. Since this is such a busy hike, plan to do this one first thing in the morning to avoid some of the crowds. RELATED POST - HIKING THE FAMOUS ANGELS LANDING TRAIL IN ZION NATIONAL PARK PA'RUS TRAIL If a leisurely stroll along a beautiful path is more your style, then the Pa'Rus Trail in Zion is the spot for you. This paved path that runs along the Virgin River features the iconic Watchman Mountain in the background and beauty all around. We recommend taking one of the many paths down to the river, where it is more secluded and quiet. PLANNING TIPS FOR PULLING OFF THE ULTIMATE SURPRISE Keep an eye on the weather The weather in Zion is usually pretty nice. When storms do roll in they tend to move through the area quickly. Keep your schedule flexible so that if the weather takes a turn, you can reschedule that special moment for when things clear up. Plan a sunrise proposal to avoid crowds If you plan to propose in the summer or on a holiday weekend, the park will be crowded. For easier parking and more solitude, plan to pop the question at sunrise. Sunrise is the perfect time for ample parking and less crowds on the trail. Make sure you know the logistics for parking and getting to the proposal location If this is your first time hiking in Zion, it would be helpful to understand the terrain and the difficutly level of the trail where you plan to propose. You can ask locals about the trail. Facebook groups can be a really great place to ask questions. Read blog posts. Look at Google Earth. Also, make sure you fully understand parking and how to get to the trail before you leave your hotel. Figure out where you are going to put the ring and keep it safe for easy access You don't want your partner to see the ring and blow the surprise, but you also want to keep it safe and easily accessible. If you are carrying a backpack, there will probably be a pocket where you can store the ring for safe keeping. If you aren't carrying a backpack this discreet box would be perfect to put in your pocket without too much bulk. Click here for the perfect box. Start throwing your partner off the scent a few months in advance You want to make sure that nothing seems out of the ordinary. If you are planning a sunrise proposal and have never done something like that before, that might through off some red flags. Plan a few sunrise hikes leading up to the day. If you don't usually do the planning but are suddenly very diligent about planning this hike down to the detail, that could raise some flags. Try stepping up and planning a few things a month or two in advance so that your partner is used to you making plans. Make it extra memorable by hiring a photographer to capture the surprise Proposing in Zion is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Make it extra special by hiring an experienced, local photographer to capture the moment so you can have that keepsake forever as well as beautiful photos to share with family and friends. The Zion Adventure Photog team has over six years of experience capturing proposals in Zion. Let us help you plan all the details so that your proposal goes off without a hitch. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO PLAN A ROMANTIC LUXURY PRIVATE PICNIC This is such a beautiful way to celebrate and make your day extra special. Reach out to Kay's Events and Picnics and let them handle every detail while you create unforgettable memories. Embark on a journey of relaxation and enchantment. Their picnics are the perfect thing to do visiting Southern Utah, Zion National Park or anywhere in southern Utah who want to experience the beauty of the area! Wishing you the most magical proposal ever!!! Arika

Growing up in the Hurricane Valley and raising kids here, I know firsthand how great this area is for families. There are so many things to do in Hurricane and surrounding areas to keep kids entertained and having fun all summer long. Zion National Park might be one of the biggest draws for families visiting Southern Utah, but I am here to inspire you to get outside the park a little. Believe me. You will be happy you did. The Hurricane Valley is the perfect home base for adventuring in Southern Utah and has everything you need to plan a fantastic family vacation. Come along! Let me show you how how many things there are to do when visiting the Hurricane Valley. The Hurricane Valley consists of Hurricane, La Verkin, Leads, Toquerville, and Virgin. These towns are close together and a 30-40 minute drive to Zion National Park/Springdale. Also make sure to check out my post SMALL TOWN BIG ADVENTURE - A GUDIE TO VISITING HURRICANE VALLEY. GETTING TO THE HURRICANE VALLEY There are a few ways to get to Hurricane Valley. The most popular way is to fly into Las Vegas and rent a car. The Hurricane Valley is a short 2-hour drive from Las Vegas. Some people opt to fly to Salt Lake City, the second closest major airport. Flying into Salt Lake will allow you to turn your vacation into a road trip and hit up all of the five national parks in Utah. Salt Lake is a 4 hours drive from Hurricane. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE 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. WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING HURRICANE Vacation Rentals - Vacation rentals are great because they have more space and the conveniences of home. The two best Airbnb/Vrbo's in the Hurricane Valley are Ardella Cottage and The Ross. For a few more ideas, click here & here. The Dwellings ($$$) - This tiny home property, located in La Verkin, is within walking distance to my favorite coffee shop, River Rock Roasting Company and my favorite local hiking trail, Confluence Park. The Dwellings has full kitchens and is a great option for families. Open Sky ($$$$) - This luxury property is quietly tucked into the desert and ready for families to come and connect with nature. Their handcrafted, safari-style tents traveled all the way from South Africa. Each tent has optimal views and maximum privacy. Zion White Bison Resort ($$$) - Located in Virgin, this new resort features Tipis, Covered Wagons, Cliff Dwelling, Cabins, and and RV spots. The luxury clamping experience at Weeping Buffalo Resort is a fun option for anyone looking for something a little unique. Zions Tiny Oasis ($$$) - This tiny home property is located in Virgin, up Kolob Terrace Road and features several different styles of tiny homes. Each tiny home at Zions Tiny Oasis has a jacuzzi, which is a bonus. Zion Under Canvas ($$$) - Glamping is all the rage and Zion Under Canvas's mix of luxury hotel and rustic camping is sure to make your stay in the area a little more fun. WHAT TO PACK FOR VISITING HURRICANE VALLEY IN THE SUMMER The desert southwest in the summer is hot and dry. Average temps in the summer range from 100-115 degrees during the day. Here is a list of what to pack to help you enjoy you time in the Hurricane Valley to the fullest. HIKING SANDALS - Bring hiking sandals like Teva or Chacos for hiking. Leave the heavy hiking boots at home. I wear my favorite pair of Teva's none stop from May-October. My kiddos love their Tevas too! Keen also makes great water sandals and shoes for kids. SUNSCREEN - Lots of sunscreen is a must for being out in the intense desert sun. HIKING HAT - Hats are great for blocking sun and dipping in the water for a quick way to cool off. HIKING SHORTS - Pick fabrics that are light and breathable SWIMMING SUITE - You will be doing lots of swimming in lakes streams and rivers. Bring two swimming suites so that one can dry while the other one is being worn. HIKING TOPS - I am a big fan of tank tops but that means more sunscreen. There are long sleeve options for the summer that are breathable and block the sun. DAYPACK/WATER PACK - Have a backpack for everyone in the family. Let the kids carry their own water and snacks. Check out these 20 things to do with kids when visiting the Hurricane Valley - all within a 1.5-hour drive of Hurricane 1 - Hike The Confluence Trail Confluence Park is a 344-acre park that sits in a gorge below Hurricane & La Verkin. The Confluence Park Trail runs along the Virgin River with croppings of lava rock, historical buildings, and plenty of areas to play and swim along the river. There are three entry points to this trail. One route starts at the end of Main Street in Hurricane, one begins at Power Plant Park in La Verkin, and the easiest and flattest trailhead starts at the north end of La Verkin. Our favorite thing about Confluence Park is that it leads to a fun area with a sandy beach, picnic benches, a great swimming spot, and a rope swing! What kid doesn't love a rope swing, right? To get there, take the Confluence trailhead at the north side of La Verkin. Hike .5 miles on a dirt road past an old abandoned pig farm. Once you hit the bridge, you will know you've made it. LOCAL TIP Below The Dwellings, there is another rope swing at the bottom of the hill in a shady area. This is another great area for swimming and playing in the water. 2 - Go Canoeing at Navajo Lake Put Navajo Lake at the top of your list if you need a respite from the intense desert heat. This stunning alpine lake, centrally located between Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, and Cedar Breaks National Monument, is fun for the whole family. Head to the far side of the lake and rent a canoe from Navajo Lake Lodge. The lodge also offers rentals for pontoon boats, motor boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. LOCAL TIP Bring the bikes and ride the Navajo Loop trail, a stunning 12-mile beginner-level loop around the lake. 3 - 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! Located 15 minutes north of St George and 45 minutes from Hurricane 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. 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. LOCAL TIP The pool is most crowded in the morning. Catch crawdads in the afternoon when the pool is the busiest, and then spend the evening playing in the pool later in the day, minus the crowds. 4 - Hike Yant Flat Yant Flat is located in the Dixie National Forest along a windy dirt road one hour west of Hurricane. The 1-mile sandy trail to get to the candy cliffs is easy and family-friendly with minimal elevation gain. There are some spots along the trail with deep sand. That deep sand makes it even sweeter when you make it to the slick red rock, perfect for running and climbing. The views are stunning, and the swirly rocks stretch for miles making it easy to spend as much or as little time as you would like hiking and exploring. Read more about hiking Yant Flat here. 5 - Hike The Narrows in Zion 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. The Narrows is an amazing slot canyon hike that will take your breath away at every turn and is the perfect reprieve from the intense desert sun. Plan to go slow and make it a full-day adventure. Walking through water and maneuvering over and around rocks can be quite taxing on the body for adults and children. Tired legs might make the hike back harder than the hike in. Try to head back before your kids are showing signs that they are done. Click here for more tips on hiking The Narrows with kids. 6 - Visit Grafton Ghost Town If you are a history buff, prepare to nerd out on this quaint little ghost town right outside Zion National Park. Grafton was established in 1859 by Mormon settlers who built their homes here in hopes of flourishing cotton crops & farming. Exploring Grafton is an activity the kids will absolutely love! Walk the grounds, read about the history of the town on the information signs, and let the kids explore to their hearts content. Help them imagine what it would have been like for the kids living and going to school in Grafton back in the 1800's. Make it a game of listing all the ways that life would have been different back then. Allow for an hour or two to walk around and experience this old town. Grafton has been abandoned since the mid-1900s, but it has been well preserved and cared for over many years. Click here to read more about visiting Grafton Ghost Town. 7 - Tube the Virgin River Tubing the Virgin River is one of the most fun ways to cool off in the summer. The best time to tube the river is in the spring when the water levels are higher due to spring runoff. The Virgin River can get very low in the middle of the summer, but it's still doable. You just need to know where to go and be prepared to walk your tube a little. You can start at the top of Springdale and float through town. This is a great option because you can get out at the end of town at George Barker River Park and take the Springdale shuttle back to your car. Sheeps Bridge Park in Virgin and Confluence park in La Verkin are also fun areas with some deeper sections that allow you to tube for short distances. LOCAL TIP In Zion, you can walk along the Pa'Rus trail with your tubes and find quite a few deep sections for little stretches of tubbing. You can buy tubes at Zion Outfitters in Springdale or Walmart in Hurricane. You can also make it super easy and go with Zion Tubing in Virgin. They provide the tubes and the shuttle. 8 - Hike Red Reef trail at Red Cliffs National Reserve This trail is a fan favorite. It 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. 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. A seasonal waterfall runs in the spring, but this hike is great any time of year. Click here to read more about hiking Red Reef Trail. LOCAL TIP There is a beautiful shady picnic area just below the parking lot. Pack a lunch or dinner and make the most of your time before or after the hike. 9 - Visit Snow Canyon State Park 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. The park is located 10 minutes north of St. George and 30 minutes from Hurricane. It gets very hot durning the day with very little shade so plan your adventures 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. 10 - Explore The Clear Creek Slot Canyons in East Zion Clear Creek is the main dry streambed that follows Route 9 throughout the east side of Zion. Although it may not be an actual named hike in Zion, it is excellent for some off-the-beaten-path hiking and fun. Filled with cave-like tunnels, family-friendly slot canyons, and sandstone cliffs, you will find surprises around every corner. Park at the Many Pools trailhead and walk down and along the dry streambed for as long or as little as you want. You will be sure to come across slot canyons and tunnels prime for exploring. Click here to read more about hiking Clear Creek. 11 - Go Canyoneering Hire Allways Adventure to guide you and your family on a canyoneering adventure. All Ways Adventure has access to canyons that suit all ages, fitness levels, abilities, and desires for adventure. Nathan and his team are so great with kids, and they know exactly how to make sure that everyone has a great time, even if they are a little nervous about dangling from a rope.....ha! Canyoneering is a multi-sport adventure where you explore a canyon or slot canyon by rappelling, zip-lining, sliding on rocks, hiking, squeezing through narrow passages, scrambling, and wading thru water. Canyoneering is an excellent adventure for beginners, adventure junkies, and everyone in between. Click here to read more about a canyoneering adventure with All Ways Adventure. 12 - Play In the river at Sheep's Bridge Park One of our favorite ways to beat the heat in Southern Utah is to head to the Virgin River. There are so many great spots along the river to play and explore but one of our favorite spots is Sheeps Bridge Park, also known as Falls Park. Located in Virgin UT just 15 minutes from Zion, Sheeps Bridge Park is an ideal spot to catch frogs, play in the sand, tube, and even do some very mild cliff jumping. LOCAL TIP If you visit at the end of June through July you will be greeted by tons of baby frogs. There are so many that you actually have to be careful that you don't step on them. It is so much fun for the kids. Bring a sand bucket that the kids can fill with all their catches but make sure to release the baby frogs when it's time to go. Click here to read more about visiting Sheep's Bridge Park. 13 - Hike Lambs Knoll Just a short 30-minute drive from the west entrance of Zion resides a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path cluster of breathtaking rock formations and wide-open views known as Lambs Knoll. Lambs Knoll is a popular rock climbing and canyoneering location for local guide companies and is also an excellent hiking spot for families. With eight first come first serve campsites and a picnic area Lambs Knoll is the perfect spot to adventure away from the crowds of Zion Canyon. Click here to read more about hiking at Lambs Knoll. 14 - Visit Kolob Canyons 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 a stunning 5-mile scenic drive. The canyons are easily accessed from Interstate 15 and just 20 minutes from Hurricane. BONUS - Kolob sits at 6,000 feet, meaning that summer temperatures are usually 10 degrees cooler than Hurricane & Zion Canyon. Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Kolob Canyons are Taylor Creek and Timber Creek Overlook. 15 - Go Cliff jumping at Sand Hollow With its tepid blue waters and stunning red rock backdrop, Sand Hollow in the summer is the perfect place to spend a day playing in the sand, swimming, enjoying water sports, and cliff jumping. Cliff jumping at Sand Hollow is a popular activity for all ages. Make your way to the far east side of the north section of the lake. From there you will have to do some climbing to get over to the popular cliff jumping section. Younger children will need plenty of help here. The cliffs range from very high and advanced to very beginner, making this perfect for all ages and dare devil levels. Click here to read more about visiting Sand Hollow. 16 - Hike Water Canyon Trail 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 scramblingbut at can be done. Just plan accordingly, bring plenty of snacks and make it a fun adventure because this is a fun one! Keep an eye out for narrow slots along the trail that only little kids can slide into. The wide-open canyon at the end of the hike has streams and waterfalls and is the perfect spot to rest, eat lunch, and explore. Return the way you came. Click here to read more about hiking Water Canyon. 17 - Go Sand Boarding at Coral Pink Sand Dunes 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. Sandboarding is an activity 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. You might want to bring goggles just in case it is windy. 18 - Hike Belly of the Dragon 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 was originally created as a water culvert under HWY89. Over time, drainage from the 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 to read more about hiking Belly of the Dragon. 19 - Hike the Moqui Caverns/Kanab Sand Caves The Kanab Sand Caves are located 10 minutes outside of Kanab, UT. These man-made caves were used to harvest sand for glass production in the 1970s. Crazy right! The 1/4th 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. It can be a bit slippery and difficult for kids and adults. Just go slow and make sure you have good traction on your shoes. There are steep drop off ledges at the caves so keep a close eye on your kiddos. Click here to read more about visiting Moqui Caverns. 20 - Visit Cedar Breaks National Monument 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, 1 hour from Hurricane, and situated at 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks is shaped like a giant coliseum dropping 2,000 feet to its floor. The 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. LOCAL TIP During the month of July the wildflowers are in full bloom, and they are absolutely stunning!!! 21 - Visit Brian Head This bustling cabin & condo community is not just for winter sport lovers; it is also a premier summer destination featuring lush green mountain biking & hiking trails. When temps are soaring into the double digits in Zion, Brian Head averages 60-70 degree temps during the day.......sooooo nice!!!!! Shops, restaurants, a city park, and a small fishing pond are located in the center of town, next to the resort. Bike races, music festivals, beer gardens, and family activity days fill the summer calendar of events put on by Brianhead Resort. The resort features an assortment of family friendly summer activities, including; Mountain Biking Scenic Chairlift Rides 12 Hole Disc Golf Family Adventure Trail Peak Shot Bungee Trampoline Ridge Runner Mini Zip Line Avalanche Tubing Crooked Arrow Archery Cliff Hanger Climbing Wall 22 - Visit Quail Creek reservoir Located just 15 minutes from Hurricane this lake boasts some of the warmest temps in the state. It is less crowded than Sand Hollow and is the ideal spot to rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. Dig Paddle Sports, located at the waters edge, makes it super easy to rent and be paddling within minutes. LOCAL TIP There is a little stream section on the north end of the lake where the water flows into the lake. Lots of shade from cottonwood trees lining the stream makes this a super fun area to swim, picnic, and kayak. It feels more like the Amazon jungle than the desert. This stream area is only flowing when the water is high in the lake, usually in the spring and on good water years. 23 - Hike Kanarra Falls Trail Located 40 minutes from Hurricane Kanarra Falls is 4.4 miles round trip and about as photogenic as it comes with vibrant green trees and stunning slot canyons that will leave you speechless. In my opinion, Kanarra Falls is one of the most stunning slot canyon hikes in all of Southern Utah......rivaled only by The Narrows and Ashdown Gorge. The hike requires a decent amount of rock scrambling and the beginning of the trail is a bit boring but 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! Click here for permit information. Click here to read more about hiking Kanarra Falls. 24 - 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. 25 - Hike Ashdown Gorge This stunning hike located up Cedar Canyon is one of my favorite ways to cool of in the summer and get away from the crowds. This hike can be done as a 6-10 mile day hike or a quick out and back with kids. Hike in for as long as you want and then turn around and hike back the way you came Kids will love this hike because of the many safe boulders to climb on and the logs they can cross back and forth over the creek. This is also a pet-friendly hike, so Fido can come along. Near the beginning of the hike there’s a waterfall made by a dam that’s fun to climb around on and about 10-15 minutes into the hike an old rusted firetruck that fell from the windy road above probably 40 years ago is fun for kids to check out. Click here to read more about hiking Ashdown Gorge. As you can see, one or two days in the Hurricane Vally just isn't enough. This list will give you plenty of options to plan the ultimate vacation with your kiddos that will keep them having fun and making memories that will last a lifetime. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CHECK OUT THESE RELATED BLOG POSTS

If the summer heat is starting to cramp your adventure-loving style then why not head to the mountains? With average summer temps in the 80s, a wide range of spectacular terrain, and an endless assortment of outdoor activities, the mountains of Southern Utah are the perfect escape from the hot desert sun. You might be surprised to find that there's a lot more to Southern Utah than red sandstone rock arches, sand hills, and cholla cacti. In the higher elevation you'll find aspen, willows, pinyon pine-junipers, and spruce, as well as creeks and lakes for a refreshing escape. I grew up visiting my family's cabin in Duck Creek every summer when I was a kid. I have such fond memories of building forts in the forest and chasing squirrels. The Southern Utah mountains will always hold a piece of my heart. Every summer, when I head up in search of some respite from the heat, I fall a little more in love. I have dreams of owning a little cabin in Brian Head one day soon. :-) Check out my list of eight high elevation destinations in Southern Utah that will take you out of the indoor air-conditioning and back to adventuring in the great outdoors. Duck Creek Village Cedar Breaks National Monument Brian Head Mammoth Cave Navajo Lake Virgin River Rim Trail Ashdown Gorge Panguich Lake Drive time to get to these destinations from Zion or Saint George average 1 - 1.5 hours DUCK CREEK VILLAGE Once a favorite spot for local sheepherders, Duck Creek Village is now a thriving community with shops and restaurants, lodges, inns, cabin rentals, and a campground. Sitting at the edge of a large mountain meadow at an elevation of 8,400 feet Duck Creek Village is a popular summer destination with hiking, fishing, camping, horseback riding, ATV riding, and mountain biking. It also serves as a gateway to several National Parks, monuments and state parks. A hike you don't want to miss when visiting Duck Creek is Cascade Falls. A one mile out and back trail will take you to a 100-foot beautiful 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. My parents built a beautiful cabin in Duck Creek that we love. Lucky you, they also rent it out. Check in out on AirBnb here. CEDAR BREAKS NATIONAL MONUMENT Often referred to as a miniature Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks features a huge amphitheater with stone spires, columns, arches, pinnacles, and intricate canyons. The monument is open from late May to mid-October, and the visitor center is open from mid-June to mid-September. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and check out the Junior Ranger Program or sign up for a ranger-guided hike. There are also educational programs where visitors can learn about the geology and history of the monument. Cedar Breaks is registered as a dark sky park so star parties are a popular attraction. They are ranger-led and held at Point Supreme Overlook, at an elevation of 10,350 ft. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE The Wild Flower Festival is not to be missed. Held the first weeks of July the festival celebrates the park's spectacular display of wildflowers. Join a specialist on a guided hike and learn all about the different wildflowers or pick up a wildflower checklist and go on a self-guided walk. BRIAN HEAD This bustling cabin & condo community is not just for winter sport lovers; it is also a premier summer destination featuring lush green mountain biking & hiking trails. When temps are soaring into the double digits in Zion & Saint George, Brian Head averages 60-70 degree temps during the day.......sooooo nice!!!!! Shops, restaurants, a city park, and a small fishing pond are located in the center of town, next to the resort. Bike races, music festivals, beer gardens, and family activity days fill the summer calendar of events put on by Brianhead Resort. The resort features an assortment of family frienly summer activities, including; Mountain Biking Scenic Chairlift Rides 12 Hole Disc Golf Family Adventure Trail Peak Shot Bungee Trampoline Ridge Runner Mini Zip Line Avalanche Tubing Crooked Arrow Archery Cliff Hanger Climbing Wall MAMMOTH CAVE Mammoth Cave is a popular and fascinating area to explore. The lava tube was formed by cooling lava and water less than 2,00 years ago and has four chambers with over 2,200 feet of passage and is about a quarter mile long. At the end of the largest tunnel, it narrows to a small opening that can be used as an exit. Heights of the cave range from stand-up-comfortably to crawl-on-your-belly. If you plan to hike and explore Mammoth Cave, bring a light jacket, flashlight, and good hiking shoes. Beware that water can be found in some portions of the cave. ASHDOWN GORGE This stunning hike located up Cedar Canyon is one of my favorite ways to cool of in the summer and get away from the crowds. According to All Trails this is an 8.8 mile hike if you go out and back, however, it can be lengthened to go all the way to Cedar Breaks for 10 miles one way. You will be hiking through water and going through colorful canyons the majority of the hike. It is hard to find a spot to turn around because there is something new and beautiful to discover around every corner. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT HIKING ASHDOWN GORGE NAVAJO LAKE This stunning alpine lake, centrally located between Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, and Cedar Breaks National Monument, is filled with activities like trout fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, and mountain biking. Navajo Lake was originally known to the Paiute Indians as "Pa-Cu-Ay", meaning "Cloud Lake" and was formed when an ancient lava flow dammed the eastern side of the lake valley. Navajo Lake is a popular camping destination and boasts two beautiful campgrounds with plenty of reservable and first come first serve camping sites. However, if camping isn't your thing, you can book a cozy cabin steps from the water at Navajo Lake Lodge. The lodge also offers rentals for pontoon boats, motor boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. The Navajo Loop trail offers mountain bikers a stunning 12-mile beginner-level loop around the lake. VIRGIN RIVER RIM TRAIL With views for days along the high southern plateau, The Virgin River Rim trail is an excellent forested single-track alpine trail totaling 32.5 miles. The trail is accessible for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback from mid-June through mid-October and is considered long and challenging. Since many sections of the hike are accessible by car, it is common to break up the trail into shorter out-and-back loop options. The climb from the west end of Navajo Lake to Navajo Peak is the most popular of these shorter trails. This hike also uses a bit of the popular Navajo Lake Loop trail. The trail is fairly well-maintained considering its remoteness and is hard-packed, but there are a lot of rough rocky sections. There are trail markers at most trail and road intersections, but it's important to pay attention because it can be possible to get lost after the trail temporarily joins a dirt road. ***Image courtesy of Panguitch.com PANGUITCH LAKE Hang out on the beach or jump in a boat and go fishing. Panguitch Lake is known for its great fishing. The word "Panguitch" comes from the local Native American Indians and means "Big Fish." If you spend much time on the lake, chances are pretty good that you will catch a rainbow, brook, cutthroat, or brown trout. Not into fishing? Panguitch Lake offers a wide range of outdoor recreation like camping, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and 300 miles of OHV routes and trails on the Markangunt OHV trail system. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

Looking for an RV park that ups the ante for your Southern Utah getaway? Take advantage of Dark Sky RV Resort in Kanab Utah. Dark Sky is a boutique RV park near Kanab and Coral Pink Sand Dunes. I stayed in June with my three kids, ages 7, 10, and 13, and we had a blast exploring all this property had to offer. We love that they paid attention to details when building the park, adding valuable perks for families traveling together. The property sits on 40 acres of wide-open sagebrush just east of Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. It is just a few miles from the Utah-Arizona border--making it the perfect basecamp for any Southern Utah adventure. It features 18 pull-through sites with full hookups and glamping-style amenities like propane fire pits, shade structures, hammocks, lounge furniture, and an outdoor dining table. By day, take in vermillion and red cliff vistas, then wait for sunset to see the Milky Way and stars fill the dark skies. Trails winding through the property are fun for kids and grown-ups to stroll along, and the hilltop seating area is the perfect place to take in a stunning sunset. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO The amenities go far beyond scenic views; Dark Sky RV Resort also boasts communal gathering spaces, exceptional bathrooms, fast WiFi, dog-friendly facilities, and outdoor adventures the whole family will love. Communal Gathering Spaces at Dark Sky RV Resort in Kanab, Utah After we checked in, we enjoyed meeting other campers at the outdoor communal space. We barbecued hamburgers and hot dogs there one night and enjoyed the cozy seating around the fire pit. There's also a full outdoor kitchen and an Ooni pizza oven to create an Italian feast. Cornhole and tether ball were set up in the area, and my kids had a blast playing. The space also hosts a social hour on Thursdays so campers can meet and a series of summer sound baths and meditations. Walk from the communal area to a hilltop with lounge chairs to take in the southern Utah vistas. Kids activities at Dark Sky RV in Southern Utah One thoughtful detail I loved about Dark Sky was the kids' activity focus. My kiddos rode the 75' zipline again and again and again. I wished it were big enough for adults too! There's also a dig pit with bones where kids can play paleontologist or dig for buried treasure. Honor System Store at Dark Sky If you didn't bring food or just forgot something and want to get it without heading into town, visit the park's honor system store. It's open 24 hours a day and has no attendant, so you must account for your purchase. The store has snacks, coffee, farm-fresh eggs, sodas, handmade touristy items, beer and wine, and Keurig coffee. On hot days, open the cooler to find some great ice cream bars. Cash, Venmo, and PayPal are accepted in the market. The Best Modern Bathhouses for an RV Park Suppose you're used to typical campground bathrooms with dirty pit toilets. In that case, you'll be blown away by the hip, elegant bathhouses at Dark Sky. The two bathrooms are next level and feature high-end amenities like heated floors, indoor/outdoor showers, and open-air laundry facilities. They're especially great if you don't have a full RV and travel in a smaller rental van like we did. It gives everyone more space and comfort and keeps you from dirtying the van's facilities. Dog-friendly Lodging in Kanab While I don't have a dog, Dark Sky is a great place to bring your furry friend. Fido can play in the leash-free enclosed park, and there's doggie daycare on-site that you can use if you're planning to visit a national park or another site that doesn't allow pets. It's just $15 for short visits and $50 for the whole day. Stay Connected Worried about staying connected to home or work while you're away? Don't be. Dark Sky has excellent cell coverage and fiber optic WiFi for working remotely or just creating Instagram Reels of your trip. Rental Options at Dark Sky If you want to reach the backcountry, rent one of Dark Sky's Roxors. These 4x4 off-road utility vehicles can take you to hidden lakes, dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, slot canyons, and rock formations that regular cars can't access. We didn't have time to experience these vehicles. Still, I love that they're street-legal, so you can cruise into Kanab during your rental period. Another way to explore downtown Kanab's hip shops and incredible restaurants is by renting one of Dark Sky's e-bikes. They're available by the hour, day, or week and allow you to get a bit of exercise pedaling without working up a sweat like you would on a regular bike. Heading to Zion National Park? Rent an e-bike! Instead of taking the park's shuttle buses, hop on a bike, cruise up the canyon to see Zion's famed cliffs, and stop for side hikes. Dark Sky also rents an e-bike-friendly bike rack so you can transport it on your vehicle to the park. Lodging Options and Rates at Dark Sky RV Resort One downside for tent campers is that Dark Sky is an RV, van, or rooftop tent location, so you can't stay with a basic tent. We rented a van from Adventure Family Van Builds in Hurricane, and it was a super fun way to travel with my kids and stay at Dark Sky. The company's smaller vans sleep three to four, while the larger family van can sleep 10 people. If traveling with a full RV, choose an RV experience site with full hookups, a propane fire pit, a shade structure, and comfy lounge furniture. It's spaced out from neighboring sites and accommodates up to 70 feet long RVs. Electric vehicle charging is available. When traveling in a smaller van or in a vehicle with a rooftop tent, choose a smaller Camp Luxury site. It only includes electric hookups, not water and sewer. It has the same shade structure, propane fire pit, hammock, and lounge furniture that bigger sites offer. Water and septic dumping are available, but towed vehicles are prohibited in these sites. Nightly rental fees decrease the longer you stay, and a monthly rental includes laundry and two hours of e-bike use. DRIVING DISTANCES FROM DARK SKY RV PARK Bryce Canyon National Park (80 miles) Cedar Break National Monument (68 miles) Coral Pink Sand Dunes (24 miles) Grand Canyon North Rim (83 miles) Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument (12 miles) Lake Powell- Wahweap (67 miles) Pipe Spring National Monument (23 miles) Zion National Park (45 miles)​ OUR 2 DAY ITINERARY FOR DARK SKY RV IN KANAB Day 1 - 1/2 day A Stop at Best Friends Visitor Center in downtown Kanab to pet the kittens Dinner at Big Als Frost Stop - Buffalo burgers, sweet potato fries, and yummy milkshakes Check in to Dark Sky Spend the evening playing corn hole, zip lining, wandering the beautiful property, watching the sunset, and making smores under the magnificent Southern Utah sky Day 2 - Full Day Wake up early to watch the sunrise from camp Slow morning with coffee and cereal and playing on the property, ziplining & diggin up bones Hiking Squaw trail - Such a great hike in town that takes you to great views of Kanab Lunch in Kanab Drug. They have the best girft shop and great sandwiches/ice cream. Swimming and kayaking at Jackson Flat Reservoir Dinner at camp Day 3 - 1/2 day Breakfast and slow morning, then check out Coffee at Kanab Creek Bakery Parked the van at Greenhalsh Trailhead (look up with google maps). There was lots of shade to park the van under. We explored the area, played in the water, and hiked up Kanab Creek. Great for a chill morning. Stopped at Pipe Springs National Monument on the way home. Just 30 minutes from Kanab with lots of interesting history about the Paiute Indians and Mormon pioneers. The buildings are well preserved and so fascinating to wander through. There is a great museum there as well. Dark Sky RV Resort in Kanab is close to so many things to do! Check out this list I have put together of 16 hikes and things to do during your stay. ***Pipe Springs National Monument Most of these things we have done but there are still a few on my list for next time and I'm sure I will continue to find more and more. 1 - Hike Wire Pass Trail 2 - Hike Buckskin Gulch 3 - Hike The Toadstools 4 - Hike Whitehouse Trail 5 - Hike Coyote Buttes North 6 - Hike The Wave 7 - Hike to Moqui Caverns 8 - Hike Belly of the Dragon 9 - Paddle Board Antelope Canyon 10 - Visit Horseshoe Bend 11 - The Chains at Lake Powell 12 - Hike Mansard Trail 13 - Hike Water Canyon 14 - Go Canyoneering 15 - Try a guided slot canyon UTV tour 16 - Pipe Springs National Monument For more inspiration and info about staying in Kanab check out this post 20 Reasons Why Kanab, Utah Should Be Your Next Family Vacation Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

In a little town, just 25 minutes from Zion National Park, sits a modern tiny home property on the rim of the Virgin River, overlooking a beautiful 344-acre park below. The setting is incredible, with views of the emerald-colored river against the backdrop of lava rock cliffs and panoramic views of Pine Valley Mountain. I know The Dwellings well because it is right around the corner from where I live. We also went on a little staycation to The Dwellings a few summers ago to experience it fully. We loved our stay, and I always recommend The Dwellings to families and travelers visiting Southern Utah. ABOUT THE DWELLINGS - BEST LODGING OPTION IN LA VERKIN, UT The Dwellings in La Verkin, Utah is a modern, eco-friendly, tiny home rental property with 13 dwellings and all the familiar comforts and necessities of a home away from home. Inside every dwelling, you will find a great balance of modern designs, classic touches, and technology features. Each Dwelling has a small kitchen, private patio, and cocktail bar in the backyard. The property is within walking distance of coffee and dining options and has direct access to the Confluence Park Trail. There is a communal fire pit lit seasonally by staff on request, and there is no need to worry about thin walls and noisy neighbors keeping you up at night because the tiny homes are separate from each other. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE WHERE IS THE DWELLINGS LOCATED The Dwellings is located in the Hurricane Valley with the convenience of being 5 minutes from a Walmart and surrounded by tons of desert beauty, hiking, and red rocks. To get to The Dwellings, you can fly into Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport, rent a car and drive 2 hours. 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's only a 30-minute drive. The next closest major airport is Salt Lake City. Salt Lake is a 4-hour drive. DRIVING DISTANCES The Dwellings is within easy driving distance to so much and is a great option as your home base when exploring all that Southern Utah has to offer. Lake Powell - 2 hours Kanab - 1 hour Coral Pink Sand Dunes - 40 minutes North Rim of Grand Canyon - 2 hours Snow Canyon State Park - 35 minutes Valley Of Fire State Park - 1 hour 45 minutes Zion National Park - 30 minutes Bryce Canyon National Park - 2 hours Las Vegas - 2 hours Cedar City - 45 minutes Saint George - 20 minutes Brian Head - 1 hour 30 minutes Duck Creek - 1 hour CHECK OUT THIS RELATED POST: SMALL TOWN BIG ADVENTURE - A GUDIE TO VISITING HURRICANE VALLEY. CONFLUENCE PARK From The Dwellings you can take a short trail down to Confluence Park. Confluence Park is a 344-acre park that sits in a gorge just below The Dwellings. The Confluence Park Trail runs along the Virgin River with croppings of lava rock, historical buildings, and plenty of areas to play and swim along the river. There are three entry points to this trail. One route starts at the end of Main Street in Hurricane, one begins at Power Plant Park in La Verkin, and the easiest and flattest trailhead starts at the north end of La Verkin. But if you are staying at The Dwellings you will have your very own access point. Our favorite thing about Confluence Park is that it leads to a fun area with a sandy beach, picnic benches, a great swimming spot, and a rope swing! What kid doesn't love a rope swing, right? OUR EXPERIENCE STAYING AT THE DWELLINGS Our staycation at The Dwellings was such a fun little getaway. The tiny homes are the perfect size for our family of four. I loved the clean and modern design, and the kitchen was fully stocked if we wanted to do a little cooking. My kiddo's favorite part was the outdoor patio. We ate dinner and cereal in the morning at the wine bar overlooking Confluence Park. With views like that, you gotta take advantage. Watching the sunset from the property in the evening was magical. One of the best things about The Dwellings is where it is situated. The Dwellings is right next to my two favorite things, River Rock Roasting Company and Confluence Park. After we checked in and explored the property, we headed over to River Rock for a cinnamon roll (the best cinnamon roll you will ever eat), and then we headed down to walk along the river at Confluence Park. My kiddos love walking along the trail, exploring, swinging at the rope swings, and swimming in the river. Since we live in La Verkin we hang out at Confluence Park a lot. If you want to explore all that Southern Utah has to offer, I highly recommend making The Dwellings your base camp for adventure. We loved every minute of our stay in this beautiful property with a unique desert setting. A Two Day Family Itinerary for staying at The Dwellings Here is a sample itinerary to give you an idea of what is possible when staying at The Dwelling. Because it is so close to so much you can pack a lot in in one day. Day 1 - Zion Day Morning - Stop at the visitor center for a junior ranger handbook Hike Riverside Walk Picnic lunch at The Lodge Afternoon - Hike Emerald Pools Day 2 - Snow Canyon/Sand Hollow Morning - Jenny's Canyon slot canyon hike Run and play at the Sand Dunes Explore the Petrified Dunes Afternoon - Cliff Jumping at Sand Hollow When I say that The Dwellings is close to so many things to do, I'm not kidding! Check out this list of 12 things to do that are all within 45 minutes of The Dwellings and CHECK OUT THIS BLOG POST FOR MORE - 25 THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN THE HURRICANE VALLEY 1 - Visit Grafton Ghost Town 2 - Tube the Virgin River 3 - Hike Red Reef trail at Red Cliffs National Reserve 4 - Visit Snow Canyon State Park 5 - Play In the river at Sheep's Bridge Park 6 - Hike Lambs Knoll 7 - Visit Kolob Canyons 8 - Go Cliff jumping at Sand Hollow 9 - Hike Zion Canyon 10 - Hike Kanarra Falls Trail 11 - Take An ATV/UTV Sand Dune Tour 12 - Visit Veyo Pool and Crawdad Canyon Have I talked you into visiting the Hurricane Valley and making The Dwellings your home base? Staying at The Dwellings means you have easy access to great places to eat, shopping, and great hiking. Even if don't plan to do much but spend time with your people you will still have epic views and nature right out your door. Happy Adventuring, Arika CHECK OUT THESE RELATED BLOG POSTS

Angeles Landing is a bucket list hike that everyone should do at least once in their lifetime. Whether you brave the steep dropoffs and make it to the end, or you just go as far as you are comfortable with, this is a hike that will live on in your memory forever. NEW PERMIT INFO Because Angel's Landing is such an awesome hike it has become very popular and very crowded. When it get's too busy on the chains it makes hiking unsafe.....and not fun. So the park implemented a permit system starting April 1st 2022. The permits are issued quarterly or the day before. A FEW GOOD TIPS You do not need a permit to hike to Scout's Lookout (right before the chains). You only need a permit for the chain section. You can apply for permit from 12am - 3pm the day before. Visit the National Park website for more info and to get a tip CLICK HERE HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE LENGTH 4.8 miles round trip DIFFICULTY If you are looking for a good workout this is the hike for you. 1488 feet of elevation gain will leave your legs feeling like jello, but the views are more than worth it. I do not recommend this hike with young kids. With that being said, hiking to Scouts Lookout (the area before the chains) with kids is doable and totally worth it. Even halfway up the views are amazing!!! LOCATION This trail starts at The Grotto, shuttle stop #5. Cross the road, go over the bridge, go to the right and you are on your way. If you go to the left you will be on the Kayenta Trail. In the winter when shuttles are not going, there is a parking lot. Parking in the winter during the day will be hard to find. TRAIL DETAILS The start of the trail will take you along the Virgin River. As you veer away from the river, you will begin the switchbacks and intense elevation gain. Before you reach the first top section called Scout’s Lookout, you will get the joy (haha) of climbing 21 steep switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles. Scout’s Lookout offers some crazy beautiful views of the canyon from above. From here you will start on the real fun stuff.....the chains and steep dropoffs. As long as you hold on to the chains, go slow and are careful with your footing, there is nothing to be scared of. Getting to the end of the trail is exhilarating! The views are just so freaking amazing, and there is such a huge sense of accomplishment. I think this is one of the reasons that this trail is one that will stick in your head forever. Scroll through for tips and additional information. TIPS AND ADITIONAL INFO My tip for hiking Angels Landing in the summer without the crowds.....go for sunset!!! You will miss the last shuttle out of the park this way but if you take a bike into the park you will only have a 3 mile ride to get out of the park and back to your car. Start the hike about two hours before sunset and come down the chains when it is still light and pull out headlamps for the last leg of the hike. You can also ride your bike into the park super early in the morning and hike the first section of Angels Landing in the dark with head lamps and then hike up the chains when you get some sunlight light coming up but I like the sunset option a lot better. Use the bathrooms at the Grotto before you go up! I can not stress this enough. There are bathrooms at Scouts Lookout but believe me, you do not want to use these, and the park does not want you to either. Take plenty of water and snacks. There is a water fill station at the Grotto stop. If you are in good shape and keep a moderate pace you can complete this hike in 2.5 to 3.5 hrs. Good comfy hiking shoes with lots of traction will be your friend. A hiking stick might be a good option too for the downhill. ***Walter's Wiggles!!! I hope you have an amazing time hiking Angels Landing on your trip to Zion! Happy Hiking, Arika CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

Imagine camping under a star-filled sky, taking in expansive views that stretch for miles and miles, and watching colorful sunrises and sunsets from the private deck of a luxury safari-style tent. At BaseCamp37°, you get all the magic of camping in the desert plus the comforts and amenities of home. This post is part of a paid partnership with BaseCamp37. All ideas and opinion are 100% my own. Basecamp37° is a unique glamping experience near Zion National Park, Kanab, Lake Powell, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, and Bryce Canyon National Park. WHAT IS GLAMPING? Glamping is camping in a tent but without the roughing it part, like sleeping on the ground. Glamping at Bascamp37° means a comfy kingsize bed and luxuries you don't usually get while camping like heated blankets, hot showers, and a fully stocked kitchen that is surrounded by nature and wide-open desert views for miles. ABOUT BASECAMP 37° BaseCamp 37° is a small, off-grid, women-owned and operated glamping property since 2017. The property gets its name from its location - right along the 37th parallel. The five glamping tents on the property are spaced out far enough away from neighboring tents to provide plenty of privacy. Each glamping tent has a comfy kingsize bed, a small cooler, headlamps, a private porch with a propane fire pit, wifi, and a solar-powered charging bank for charging all your electronics. The main house has a large communal kitchen and two bathrooms with hot showers. Just a short walk away from each tent; the main house is beautifully designed and stocked with all the kitchen and bathroom essentials you could ask for. It's even stocked with all the ingredients for smores! The outdoor area has a large fire pit perfect for roasting smores in the evening and telling ghost stories. The outdoor space also has plenty of seating, a barbeque, hammocks, and a small cowboy pool to cool off on those hot summer days. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE For entertainment, there is a considerable selection of board games and cornhole for guests to enjoy. This property would be perfect for hosting a small family gathering or an intimate elopement. Book out all the tents and have the place to yourselves! WHERE IS BASECAMP37° LOCATED BaseCamp37° is located in the Chocolate Cliffs of the Grand Staircase, just ten minutes from downtown Kanab in the Southwest corner of Utah. To get to BaseCamp37° you can fly into Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport, rent a car and drive 3 hours. 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's only a 1 hour 30-minute drive. The next closest major airport is Salt Lake City. Salt Lake is a 5.5-hour drive. OUR EXPERIENCE STAYING AT BASECAMP37° My kiddos and I love visiting Kanab any chance we can get. Since Kanab is just an hour from our home, it makes for the perfect little staycation. My kiddos were a little hesitant when we turned down the dirt road a few minutes outside of town, but once we pulled up to our tent, they were thrilled to run around and check out our base camp for the weekend. Our tent had a king size bed and a twin-sized bed for my 13-year-old. My younger two were happy to cuddle with me in the kingsize bed for the weekend. Amy, the host, and owner of BaseCamp37°, was quick to greet us and tell us about the property. She was awesome and gave me some great ideas for kid-friendly spots to check out close by. We took our groceries over to the main house and explored all the shared space. Everything was so beautifully designed and functional. I loved that there was plenty of room to cook dinner and eat breakfast. It's so nice not to have to eat out every meal when traveling with kids. The weather was perfect, and we spent the evening in the outdoor communal space. I was in awe of how lush and beautiful the cactus and desert sagebrush were on the property. I even asked Amy if they had done landscaping. She just laughed and said no. It was all natural. My kiddos found the hammocks and spent the evening fighting over them...haha! 2 hammocks + three kids = fighting! After roasting smores, we walked the short distance to our tent to cozy up in bed and listen to the sounds of the desert at night. The dark sky was filled with millions of twinkling stars. It was so magical! I woke up in the morning just before sunrise and enjoyed the pink glow on the horizon. Everything was so quiet and still. That is the magic of the desert. Away from all the hustle and bustle, you get a peacefulness that is so rare these days. It is just what my soul needed. We enjoyed a slow morning, eating breakfast in the main house and exploring the property before heading out for the day. I love that we didn't have to drive far to find all sorts of things to do for a day of adventure and fun. That night I made dinner for the kids in the communal kitchen, and we hung out inside and played UNO at the large table. It was a perfect evening after a long day of adventuring. The following day we woke up and had another slow morning, eating breakfast and swinging in the hammocks before checking out. BaseCamp37° is something special. We loved every minute of our stay in this beautiful desert setting and highly recommend making BaseCamp37° your base camp for your Southern Utah adventures. OUR FULL WEEKEND ITINERARY Day 1 - 1/2 day A Stop at Best Friends Visitor Center in downtown Kanab to pet the kittens Dinner at Big Als Frost Stop - Buffalo burgers, sweet potato fries, and yummy milkshakes Check in to BaseCamp 37 Spend the evening swinging on hammocks, watching the sunset, and making smores under the magnificent Southern Utah sky Day 2 - Full Day Wake up early to watch the sunrise from the tent Slow morning with coffee and cereal and exploring BaseCamp37 Hike The Nautilus (Thanks, Amy, for the great recommendation!) Lunch in Page @ Swimming and cliff jumping at The Chains area of Lake Powell A quick stop at Horseshoe Bend Dinner at BaseCamp37 UNO at the kitchen table Day 3 - 1/2 day Breakfast and slow morning, then check out Coffee at Kanab Creek Bakery Hike Squa Trail - Local trail right in town with views of the town Explore Moqui Caverns Explore Belly of the Dragon Scenic drive home through Zion National Park When I say that BaseCamp37° is close to so many things to do, I'm not kidding! Check out this list I have put together of 15 hikes and things to do close to BaseCamp37°. Most of these things we have done but there are still a few on my list for next time and I'm sure I will continue to find more and more. 1 - Hike Wire Pass Trail 2 - Hike Buckskin Gulch 3 - Hike The Toadstools 4 - Hike Whitehouse Trail 5 - Hike Coyote Buttes North 6 - Hike The Wave 7 - Hike to Moqui Caverns 8 - Hike Belly of the Dragon 9 - Paddle Board Antelope Canyon 10 - Visit Horseshoe Bend 11 - Swim at Lake Powell 12 - Hike Mansard Trail 13 - Hike Water Canyon 14 - Go Canyoneering 15 - Try a guided slot canyon UTV tour For more inspiration and info about staying in Kanab check out this post 20 Reasons Why Kanab, Utah Should Be Your Next Family Vacation Happy Adventuring, Arika CHECK OUT THESE OTHER RELATED POSTS

Southern Utah is filled with a bunch of boring small towns with nothing to do. THIS IS WHAT I USED TO BELIEVE!!! Silly right! Our recent winter weekend in Cedar City blows this thinking right out of the water. Not only did we manage to have a fun, action-packed weekend in Cedar City with kids but we even got in a little culture.....take that big city adventurers.....haha! When most people think of Southern Utah they think desert and warm but Cedar City is located in a transition zone between desert and mountain environments with average summertime high temperatures of about 90 degrees F, and average wintertime lows of about 17 degrees F. Cedar City also gets about 110 inches of snow per year which makes it a great destination for some family winter fun. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE We don't get a chance to play in the snow often living in Hurricane, so with Cedar City being just 45 minutes away, I decided to plan a little family winter staycation. It was the perfect weekend mixed with snowmobiling, snow tubing, a visit to the Southern Utah Museum of Art, a mystical magical hot spring and a beautiful, snowy drive through the recently reopened Kolob Canyons. Make sure to read to the end for our favorite place to stay in Cedar City......it's so freaking cute! OVERVIEW OF OUR WEEKEND ITINERARY FRIDAY - BRIAN HEAD UT 11am Snowmobiling with Thunder Mountain Motorsports 1pm lunch at Pizanos 4pm Snow Tubing at Brian Head Resort SATURDAY - CEDAR CITY/MONROE UT 10am Frontier Homestead Stake Park Museum/Ice Skating 12pm Lunch at Centro Wood Fired Pizza 1pm Southern Utah Museum of Art 5pm Mystic Hot Springs SUNDAY - KOLOB CANYONS Drive through Kolob Canyons DAY ONE Brian Head is located just 30 minutes from Cedar City and is a perfect destination for winter sports in Southern Utah. When we were trying to figure out what activities we wanted to do in Brian Head I was tempted to spend the day teaching the kids how to ski/snowboard but I was a little nervous about how they would do. Flashbacks filled my head of my own childhood experience of learning to ski. Let's just say there were lots of tears involved. So we decided to do a snowmobiling tour and snow tubing instead and I am so glad that we did! Our day in Brian Head was a total hit with the kids. We planned our 1.5-hour snowmobile tour with Thunder Mountain Motor Sports for 11 am. As soon as we checked in we got completely suited up from head to toe in gear to keep us warm and dry. All the gear that we didn't have we were able to borrow from Thunder Mountain. Getting a family of 5 suited up is no small task and during all the chaos that ensued, I had serious doubts about whether or not all this work was going to be worth it. Luckily our tour guide, Mike was super patient with us while we dealt with tantrums and missing clothes. Phoenix, my 3-year-old did not want to wear his helmet but as soon as we got outside and he got to sit on one of the snowmobiles he was good to go. It turned out that all the work paid off......big time. Mike was so good with the kids and driving the snowmobile was more fun than I ever could have imagined (except for the time that I didn't make my turn and I got stuck in a snow bank.....whoops!). Mike stopped us regularly to let us get off the snowmobiles and play in the snow. It was so beautiful! Our favorite stop was at a really cool old dilapidated yellow school bus......a photographers dream. Mike also took us to an amazing overlook called Bear Canyon. The kids loved every minute of the adventure except for poor Willow who got cold hands towards the end. Note to self, buy Willow better winter gloves. The 1.5-hour tour was $105 per snowmobile & $20 for each additional passenger. Book your tour here. After the tour, we headed over to Pizanos for lunch. I got a really great chicken parmesan sandwich and Chris and the kids split a pepperoni pizza. The food and the service were great. The kiddos were a little tired and cranky after lunch so we drove around for a bit to let them warm-up and take a nap. While everyone was sleeping in the car I headed over to get tickets for snow tubing at Brian Head Resort. Luckily they were starting a new 1.5-hour session soon so we didn't have to wait long for our turn. Right from the getgo, the kids were in love with snow tubing. They loved every minute of riding the escalator up the hill and zooming down. No complaining about being cold or tired, they just wanted to fly down the hill as many times as they possibly could. I have to admit I thought it was pretty fun too. Those tubes were fast! Tickets are $25 per person (child & adult) for a 1.5-hour session. Book online here. Day Two We were planning to head over to go ice skating at the Glacier Ice Rink after breakfast but the rink was located outdoors and the wind was blowing pretty hard. It looked like a storm was rolling in. Our next option on the list was Frontier Holmstead State Park Museum but since much of it is also outdoors that was out too. So guess what we did! We took the kids to the McDonalds Playland. You do what you gotta do when vacationing with kids right! I had heard great things about Centro Wood Fired Pizza so we headed there for lunch. It was such a cool and modern place. It felt like we were in a big city. The quality of the pizza was top notch and I was in love with the design of the restaurant. With the weather still not great we needed something to do indoors so we decided to go check out the Southern Utah Museum of Art. It didn't seem like the ideal activity with kids but oh my gosh was I wrong! The museum was small but really beautiful and I loved all the landscape paintings that they were showcasing. The art is changed out often. There is no entrance fee. It is all based on donations so you can donate as much or as little as you would like. From the moment we stepped into the museum one of the sweetest volunteers took my girls under her wing and walked them through the entire museum. She was so great with the girls. My 9-year-old, Lucy is starting to get into drawing and it was so good for her to have someone talk to her about art in a really fun and enjoyable way. I could see Lucy's little imagination just spinning. We got so lucky because the museum does a free family art day once a month (we had no idea about this) and turns out it was happening in an hour! The craft was so much fun for the kids. I even got in on the action and made my own art project. We will definitely be back for family art day again soon. After our fun at the museum, we headed to the hotel, quickly changed into swimming suits and made the drive to Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe UT. Mystic Hot Springs has been on my bucket list for a while now and since we were staying in Cedar City and it was only a 1.5-hour drive it seemed like the perfect evening activity. On a Saturday evening, the springs were pretty busy but we all had such an amazing time. The girls made friends quickly and Phoenix and I got lucky with one of the best tubs on the property. READ MORE : Mystic Hot Springs - A Family Adventure In Central Utah Day Three After our late night, we had a slow morning eating breakfast and checking out of the hotel. We made one last stop at the McDonalds playland to let the kiddos get out some energy and then we headed to Kolob Canyons to do the scenic drive. Kolob Canyons is a less busy section of Zion that is just 20 minutes south of Cedar City. 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 a stunning 5-mile scenic drive. The drive was so gorgeous with the red snow cover mountains. If the kids weren't so tired from our weekend adventures I would have hustled them out of the car to do a little hiking & playing in the snow. Oh well. There is always next time. Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Kolob Canyons are Taylor Creek and Timber Creek Overlook Where to Stay in Cedar City Cedar City doesn't have a huge selection of interesting lodging choices. They have all the chain hotels but those are boring. We like to stay in a places with character. Something that the kids will love and that will be a part of the memories we make on our trip. This Airbnb, just 10 minutes north of Cedar City is such a great place to stay with kids. We absolutely loved everything about our stay. The property is on a working farm and has all the amenities you need with all the comforts of home. We cooked, played games, and watched movies in the upstairs theater room. It can even fit up to 14 guests. If you plan on visiting Brian Head or Cedar City with kids this is the place to stay. So what do you think? Are you ready to head to Cedar City for some winter fun? I hope I have inspired you to add another Southern Utah town to your bucket list. Stay tuned because we will be doing a summer staycation in Cedar City and I can't wait to show you how much fun this little town is in the summer! Happy Adventuring, Arika CHECK OUT THESE OTHER RELATED POSTS

When I booked a canyoneering adventure with Red Desert Adventures for my family I was so excited to break out of my comfort zone and do something new and different together as a family (minus our two yr old who was too young for the adventure). What I didn't know was what a tremendous learning and growing experience it would be for all of us. Me, my husband Chris, and our two girls Lucy(8) and Willow(5) met Nathan, our guide for the adventure in La Verkin, UT. He drove us up Kolob Terrace Road to a beautiful spot just outside of Zion National Park. Nathan was so friendly and good with the girls. They warmed up to him immediately. We put on the helmets and harnesses that were provided by Red Desert Adventures, Nathan went over some guidelines, and then we headed out. The hike to get to the canyon was so beautiful and so much fun for the girls that they didn't complain once.....yay! The first spot where we needed to use our gear was a simple climb up some steep rocks. Nathan tied off some ropes, we clipped in and used the lines to safely climb the steep rocks. It was a great way to get the girls warmed-up, and they both did great. Next, we walked along a cliff with a narrow ledge with a steep drop off. Again Nathan set up the ropes and we all clipped in. Lucy went first. She hesitated for a minute, but she did great. Nathan walked with Willow and helped her out just a little. Willow was beaming from ear to ear. The first repel was a first for all of us. To be honest, I wasn't sure if I was brave enough, but I felt very confident in Nathan, and I knew we were 100% safe. Chris went first. He was such a rockstar and didn't hesitate for a minute. Next was Lucy's turn. She started out completely confident but as soon as she hit the first ledge, game over. We had to coach her with lots of positive affirmations. It took some time, but she eventually went over the ledge and made her way to the bottom. There were tears involved and lots of "I'm scared"'s, but she did it, and when she hit bottom she was so proud of herself. When it was my turn I didn't think twice; I just went for it. It was a little nerve-racking going over that first ledge but knowing that we were 100% safe made all the difference for me. It was so exhilarating to do something I wasn't sure if I was capable of doing. After seeing how hard it was for Lucy, I had my doubts about Willow. Nathan took such great care of her though. We gave her lots of coaching and positive affirmations, but in the end, Nathan clipped her on to him and they came down together. We had two more repels after that, and they both went about the same as the first one. Lots of coaching the girls and lots of positive affirmations. Nathan was so fantastic and patient as he coached and guided the girls down. The last repel was the most fun for me. I loosened up a bit and had fun with it. I was jumping off the walls and even took the time to savor the beauty of the canyon. There were so many great take-aways from our time with Nathan at Red Desert Adventure. The memories we made will always be so special to Chris and me, and I think they will be for my girls as well. Watching my girls work through their fear was pretty emotional for me. I was so proud of them, and they were so proud of themselves. It was also incredibly hard seeing the uncertainty on their faces and the tears running down their cheeks, but what an amazing lesson for us to learn in such a beautiful way! Life is full of fear and uncertainty, but when we overcome it, that is truly living. I can't wait to go canyoneering again with Nathan at Red Desert Adventures. There are so many more canyons located all over Southern Utah that I am excited to explore. If you are looking for a family activity that you will never forget you need to book a canyoneering adventure with Red Desert Adventures. Click here to check out their website for all the details.

Hot springs are one of my very favorite winter activities. Unfortunately, there are very few options for hot springs in Southern Utah. The best option for a fun day trip or weekend getaway is a quick 2-hour drive to Mystic Hot Springs in Central Utah. I have visited Mystic Hot Springs several times since my first visit with my kiddos over five years ago. CHECK OUT OUR FIRST VISIT HERE. Since then, I have visited with just me and my kiddos two times, on a girl's trip getaway, with my partner on a romantic getaway, and as a family one other time. All our visits have been in the winter, and every visit has been filled with fun moments that I will remember and cherish forever. Hot springs have a special place in my heart. I grew up spending a lot of time at the Pah Tempe Hot Springs, about 1/2 a mile from my home in Hurricane. I often joke that the pungent rotten egg sulfur smell is the smell of my childhood.....haha! HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE Unfortunately, these hot springs are no longer, but the good news is there are plans to use that amazing hot spring water coming from the Virgin River, and plans are underway to build a new Zion Hot Springs Resort soon!!!!! But for now, Mystic is my go-to hot spring. TABLE OF CONTENTS Why I love Mystic Hot Springs so much A little history about the property Where is Mystic Hot Springs located? How much are the soaking passes? Where to stay when visiting Mystic Hot Springs? What to bring with you to Mystic Hot Springs in the winter? Our first family visit Red Hills Hot Spring - Free Local Hot Springs WHY I LOVE MYSTIC HOT SPRINGS SO MUCH There are so many things I love about Mystic Hot Springs. It has a very eclectic hippy vibe that adds to the property's charm. There isn't anything fancy about Mystic Hot Springs, so be prepared, but there is definitely something magical about it. The unique cast iron tubs surrounded by mounds of red mineral deposits are perfect for soaking, and the larger pools at the bottom are great for swimming and playing. There are two pools and six soaking tubs. The pools and tubs range in temperate. The large main pool stays quite hot, and the smaller pool is quite a bit cooler. So it's perfect cause when you get too hot from the larger pool, you can jump in the smaller pool to cool off a little. The main mineral in the water is calcium carbonate. There is no sulfur in the water, so there is no pungent smell, and showering after soaking isn't necessary. The pools are cleaned twice weekly, and the tubs are cleaned several times daily. If you go in the evening, bring a flashlight with you. The property is pitch dark after sunset. The first time we went, the property was quite busy. Since Covid, they have been limiting the number of people who can visit at a time. In the five times I have visited since Covid, there have only been a few other people at the property during our visits. It has been so lovely and peaceful! Make sure to read to the end for information for a free bonus hot spring located 5 minutes from Mystic Hot Springs!!!! A LITTLE HISTORY ABOUT THE PROPERTY The property dates back to 1886, when Mormon pioneers settled near the large mounds of mineral deposits formed by a small stream of flowing hot water. The Pioneers eventually built a swimming hole at the site and named it Monroe Hot Springs. The property changed hands a few times until "Mystic Mike," the current owner, bought the property in the mid-1990s. With the desire to welcome more people to the property, Mike sought out abandoned vans and pioneer cabins and restored them to rent out to guests wanting to stay on the property. He currently has 15 cabins, all in different stages of restoration. WHERE IS MYSTIC HOT SPRINGS LOCATED? Mystic Hot Springs is located in Monroe, UT, right in the heart of Central Utah. Mystic hot springs is a 2 hours 40-minute drive from Salt Lake City and 2 hourish drive from St. George/Hurricane Valley. If you are headed up north after a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park, a stop at Mystic Hot Springs is a perfect way to break up the drive. Click here for Map and driving directions. HOW MUCH ARE THE SOAKING PASSES? You can purchase a 2-hour soaking pass online. An adult pass online is $25, and a child pass is $12.50. For some reason, they only let you purchase four passes at a time, so if you have a party bigger than four you have to make two separate purchases. Click here to purchase soaking passes. WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING MYSTIC HOT SPRINGS? There are a few different lodging options to turn Mystic Hotsprings into a weekend getaway. I have tried the cabin and buses on the property. They make for a very rustic stay, but it's fun and convenient to be right on the property. When we stayed in the Old Pine Cabin at the end of December, it was very cold, and the one space heater we were given was not enough to keep us warm. Luckily I had two kiddos with me and cuddled all night to stay warm. On a fun girls' weekend in November, we stayed in one of The Buses on the property. The heated blanket and space heater managed to keep us warm enough but beware, the doors and the busses do not have locks. That sketched me out a little. We have stayed at The Monroe Inn a few times. The Monroe Inn is a super cute inn just around the corner from the hot springs, but it looks like it isn't currently running.....bummer! There are plenty of options for airbnbs in the area. Richfield is located 30 minutes away and has lots of great lodging options. I think that is what we will do next time we visit. WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU TO MYSTIC HOT SPRINGS IN THE WINTER? I have learned a few things about how to visit Monroe Hot Springs in the winter. Here is my list for what to bring with you to help your visit go smoothly. Change of clothes that are quick and easy to put on Big warm towel + additional towels. Shoes that are easy to slip on and off like Teva's or Chaco's. The ground is a little muddy with wet feet and you will be going from pool to tub/tub to pool. Headlamp if you are going at night. There are no lights to light up your way around the property. Lot's of water Snacks Beanie to keep your head warm There are no bathrooms close to the pools/tubs, so you will have to walk a little way in a cold, wet swim suite unless you are comfortable doing a quick change after getting out. OUR FIRST FAMILY VISIT February 2019 - On a cold weekend in February, we loaded up our three kiddos and made the 2-hour trek to Mystic Hot Springs. From my research, I knew the property was a little run down, so I didn't expect much.......but right off, I fell in love. It felt welcoming, with a very eclectic hippy vibe. I actually think it would be a little sad if they fixed it up and made it all perfect. I loved the old cabins and buses on the property. They are so unique and beautiful in their own way. I wish I could have spent more time exploring the cabins and buses, but we pulled up an hour before sunset so our number one goal was to get our passes and get soaking! I was hoping it wouldn't be too busy but seriously I should have known better. As we climbed the steps up to the springs, I crossed my fingers that we would be able to get one of the cast iron tubs to soak in but my hopes were quickly dashed as I saw that they were all full. With my heart broken, we went back down to get into the pools at the base of the property. Chris and the kids climbed in the warmest of the two pools, and I walked around the property to check out and photograph the springs. As I walked around the upper south side of the property, I noticed there was one hidden tub that no one was in. WHAT!!!! I was so excited I could hardly contain myself. I practically ran down to the pools and begged Chris to come with me to the hidden tub. It was freakin cold outside so I wouldn't have blamed him if he said no. We couldn't leave Phoenix in the pool by himself, so we bundled him up in towels and took him with us while the girls happily played with new friends in the pool. Our view from the tub!!! The cast iron tub was big and warm. (a perfect temp) and had the best views on the property. It was also totally secluded. I was in complete and total heaven. Chris stayed for a little bit and then went down to be with the girls in the lower pool. Phoenix and I soaked and splashed as the sun went down and the stars came out. We played the I Love You More Than game. "I love you more than all the stars in the sky" I told him. "I love you more than all the stars and a thousand bugs bugs bugs," he told me. I can't even express in words how magical it all was. We stayed in the tub until it got dark, and I realized that there were no lights on the property. No lights is great for star gazing, but I made the mistake of not having anything to light our way back down to the pools. Whoops! Luckily we made it down without falling, but it was pretty sketchy. RED HILL HOT SPRINGS - FREE LOCAL HOT SPRINGS IN MONROE, UTAH If you don't want to spend the money to visit Mystic Hot Springs, these local hot springs. Red Hill Hot Springs are just a 5 minute drive from Mystic. They sit on the hill overlooking the Monroe valley are a great alternative or addition to your Mystic Hot Springs visit.. Red Hills Hot Springs has four small pools that range in temperature. The pools aren't very deep and can get crowded, but they are free, so you can't really complain. I recommend going before or after your visit to Mystic Hot Springs. CLICK HERE FOR DIRECTIONS I hope this guide helps you plan a weekend or day trip to Mystic Hot Springs for a fun winter activity that you won't forget. Happy Adventuring, Arika CHECK OUT THESE OTHER RELATED BLOG POSTS

One of the best ways to skip the crowds in busy national parks is to visit in the offseason and Bryce Canyon National Park is no exception. Visiting Bryce in the winter with kids is magical! Those hoodoos covered in snow are such a beautiful site! Your hiking options may be a little limited because of ice and snow, especially if you are visiting with kids, but it is still 100% worth it. WHAT ARE THE TEMPS LIKE IN BRYCE IN THE WINTER Bryce in the winter is cold. Temps during the day average 36 degrees so dressing in layers and warm winter clothing is very important if you want to get out and explore. The graph below will give you an idea of the average temperatures in Bryce Canyon in the winter months. INFORMATION FROM GOOGLE HOW TO GET TO BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK Bryce Canyon is located in South Central Utah. Bryce is often visited along with Zion National Park or on a mighty 5 road trip. Many visitors fly into the Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport, rent a car, and drive 3 hours to Zion. They often make Zion their home base and make a 1 hour 45 minute drive for a day trip to Bryce. The other most popular way is by visiting as part of a Mighty Five Road Trip by flying into Salt Lake City in northern Utah and driving three hours to Moab and visiting Arches National Park and Canyon Lands National Park together. Then head down the state two hours to Capitol Reef National park and then 1.5 hours over to Bryce Canyon National Park and then lastly 1.5 hour drive to Zion National Park. This road trip is typically done over a week. ONE DAY WINTER ITINERARY WITH KIDS For a Bryce winter adventure with kids I have put together a one-day itinerary that will give you the perfect mix of hiking and site seeing, and the best part is, you will have the park pretty much to yourself! Start your day later in the morning (give the temps time to warm up a little) with a short and easy 1-mile round trip hike at Mossy Cave Trail. For this hike, you won't be driving into the park. Click here for directions. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE This trail is a great one to do in winter because even if it is covered in snow it is still totally doable because there is very little elevation gain. If it has just recently snowed you may need snowshoes so be prepared. When we hiked this trail the snow was very compacted from all the hikers that had gone before us and we didn't need snowshoes or even Yaktrax for our snow boots (Yaktrax would have been nice though!). You will cross a beautiful bridge and hike to a waterfall area and then backtrack a bit to check out the caves. This is a great hike with kids. Take plenty of time to explore and play. The hike will take about an hour. Head into Tropic for pizza at The Pizza Place after your hike. It's just a five minute drive from Mossy Cave Trail. The Pizza Place offers specialty pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. There should be something here to please everyone. Other options for lunch include The Pines Restaurant. or Ruby's Inn Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room. The Pines restaurant offers delicious home-cooked meals including soup, pie, cowboy size steaks, mashed potatoes, and gravy. The Pines is world famous for their pie so make sure to get a slice! Ruby's Inn is diner style and offers lots of options. The Cowboy Buffet and Steak Room is family style western dining featuring lots of options including the area's finest steak, ribs, chicken, and seafood. After lunch head to the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance station. Drive into the park past the Bryce Canyon Lodge (the lodge is closed during the winter from December 1st through March 8) turn left towards Sunset Point. Park in the designated parking lot and head to Sunset Point. Take in the views! They are AMAZING!!! From here you can hike Navajo Loop Trail for a short distance. When I was here with my family we didn't have Yaktrax with us so the trail was too slippery to go very far. If you want to hike make sure to bring Yaktrax with you for your boots. If you go to the right you will only be able to hike a short distance. The Wallstreet section of the trail is usually closed in the winter, but you can look down onto the trail from above and it is still pretty cool. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT HIKING NAVAJO LOOP TRAIL Defrost from the cold temps by heading to Ruby's Inn for hot chocolate. Take the hot chocolate to go and do a scenic drive through the park. Chances are you won't be able to make it to the end of the road to Bryce Viewpoint, they close the road in the winter due to heavy snow, but you should be able to make it pretty far. Our favorite scenic stop was the Natural Bridge Viewpoint. When you get to the end of the road turn around and head to go park on the east side of the lodge. From here make your way to the Rim Trail until finding the perfect spot to experience sunset in Bryce. The sun won't go down in front of your eyes but hopefully, you will catch some beautiful colors in the sky like we did. What to wear for a winter day in Bryce Canyon National Park with kids? Average winter temps in Bryce are in the mid 30's so it is very important to dress warmly. You will need beanies, gloves, winter boots, and warm coats. Here is some link to some of our favorite winter gear. Here are some items that are similar to what we have used and loved in the past. I just purchased these boots from LLbean! I'll come back and let you know how they are after I have worn them for a bit. Toddler/Young Kid Winter Boots Big Kid Winter Boots Kids Winter Coat Women's Beanie Women's Warm Leggings Women's Down Jacket Where to stay when visiting Bryce Canyon National park in the winter? Stone Canyon Inn - If you are looking for a modern and stylish stay when you are visiting the area then you will love Stone Canyon Inn. Ruby's Inn - This Bryce Canyon classic hotel is a family-friendly destination and the closest lodging to the park. Ruby's Inn has a number of winter activities available including Ice Skating Horseback Riding Snowmobiling Snowshoeing Cross-country Skiing Sleigh Rides I hope this inspires you to visit Bryce Canyon National Park in the winter. You won't regret it I promise. In the comment section below let me know if you have ever visited Bryce in the winter. I would love to hear about it. CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

Fall comes to Zion National Park a little later than it does to most areas of the country. In mid-November, you will find yellow leaves on the trees, cool crisp air perfect for all those hiking adventures, and bonus, the summer crowds have thinned out. If you want to experience Zion in all it's fall glory I have put together the perfect fall family adventure itinerary. WHO: Me, my hubby and our 3 children (1, 4, and 7 years at the time) WHEN: End of October, November, or beginning of December is the best time for fall color HOW LONG: 3 days 2 nights WHERE WE STAYED: Cable Mountain Lodge We booked a Wallbed Suite and loved it. It was spacious with 3 beds (a king bed, a sofa bed, and a murphy bed) and a kitchenette. The rustic decor was very warm and cozy. The hotel’s location is the absolute best in Springdale since it is a 2-minute walk from Zion National Park. Parking at the park’s Visitor Center can sometimes be hard to find, so being able to leave the car at the hotel is extremely convenient. You also get a 20% discount at all the shops and restaurants on the property. PRO TIP: Food in Springdale is a little expensive. Save money by buying groceries in Hurricane or La Verkin before heading to Springdale and use the suite’s kitchenette. DAY ONE Evening activities: After checking in we ate dinner at Zion Canyon Brew Pub. The location is convenient as it is located on the hotel’s property. We also received a 20% discount on our bill by showing our room key. The food was tasty, and the service was prompt. The restaurant has high chairs and plenty of space for strollers, but does not have any crayons or other activities for keeping little ones entertained. Make sure to bring your own books and toys if you plan to eat here. I was hoping to do a sunset walk along the Pa'Rus trail after dinner but we didn't arrive early enough and it was already dark. The evening was really cold so we decided to snuggle up in our suite. We made hot chocolate, which we had purchased in town earlier, and enjoyed a movie together. The kids were thrilled to be on a mini-adventure and to be staying in a hotel. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION/SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE DAY TWO Morning Activities: The baby was up by 6.30 a.m. so I bundled the two of us up and we went for an early morning walk while my hubby played with the girls in our suite. We ventured into Zion National Park and walked along the Pa’Rus Trail with the beautiful sunrise as our backdrop. The weather was quite chilly, but, as soon as the sun rose, it warmed right up. On my way back, I grabbed two Junior Ranger handbooks at the Visitor Center so my kiddos could start working on getting their Junior Ranger Badges. PRO TIP: The National Park’s Visitor Center offers free Junior Ranger booklets for visitors ages 4 +. This activity booklet leads little nature explorers through Zion National Park in search of natural treasures. Upon completion, a Junior Ranger Badge is earned. The program is tailored to different age groups. Younger children only need to complete a couple of the pages, while older kids must complete the entire booklet. Allow for several hours to complete the entire program. For breakfast, we ate cereal in our suite that we had purchased in Hurricane. It was such a treat to have a relaxed morning in the room. I also grabbed a coffee from Perks, the on-site cafe. Once I returned from my walk with the baby, we prepared for our family hike. We ate a quick snack of cheese, crackers, and apple slices in the suite since we knew we would be on our hike during our normal lunch time. We were out of our suite by 11.15 a.m. and headed to the Visitor Center to board one of the free shuttles. PRO TIP: The majority of the year the park operates a free shuttle into the main canyon, with nine different stops throughout its grounds. To avoid long lines during the summer, plan to get to the park either first thing in the morning or later in the day. In the winter, the shuttle only runs on the weekends, and it is possible to drive into the park with your own car, but it can be difficult to find parking. We had a 10-minute wait for the shuttle to arrive, and then we rode the shuttle to its final stop: Temple of Sinawava. The ride on the shuttle takes approximately 40 minutes and it’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Zion National Park, especially on a chilly fall day. From Temple of Sinawava, we embarked on our hike of the Riverside Walk Trail. This is a great hike for kids because it is relatively flat and only a 2-mile round trip. Even novice little hikers will enjoy this adventure. It took us about 1 ½ hour to complete, including frequent stops to play on the trail. PRO TIP: Hiking for the first time with your kids? Allow plenty of time for them to play and explore and pack lots of snacks. Children get hungry quickly and will be more motivated during the hike if you promise them their favorite treat. After the hike, we had a late lunch at the Castle Dome Cafe at the Zion Lodge and shared a cheeseburger and a slice of pizza. The food was very mediocre, but we enjoyed sitting outside and eating on the grass while the kids played. PRO TIP: Food options within Zion National Park aren’t the best. It’s better to pack your own picnic lunch. Afternoon activities: On our shuttle ride back to the lodge, we stopped at the Human History Museum to watch a movie about the park, which was a requirement for the Junior Ranger badge. The short introduction to the park lasts about 20 minutes and plays every 1/2 hour. Its content was engaging for the kids, and the baby napped throughout it. When we returned to our hotel we went down to the river where there are picnic tables and a barbecue. We played in the fallen leaves before retreating to our suite for a rest. Evening Activities: We had dinner at Zion Pizza & Noodle Co., which is a 5-minute drive from Cable Mountain Lodge and has a sizable selection of salads and pizzas. Our kids are always up for pizza and they loved it! DAY THREE Morning activities: We had a late breakfast around 9.30 a.m. at Cafe Soleil, a small cafe within walking distance from the hotel. I always enjoy when I don’t have to drive somewhere. The food was a little pricey, but good. The menu even featured a small selection of kids’ sandwiches. My kiddos were so hungry they gobbled everything up. After breakfast, we packed up and made a picnic lunch before heading over to the start of the Watchman Trail, which is about a 10-minute walk past the Visitor Center. The trail is 3-miles round trip with an elevation of 300 ft. Though this trail is a little long and has an elevation climb, the kids did great. We hiked at a slow and comfortable pace and packed plenty of snacks to refuel along the way. The weather was much warmer this day and we didn’t even need coats. Unfortunately, it started to sprinkle when we reached the top so we ate our lunches quickly and then headed back down. If it’s not raining during your hike, the trail offers beautiful picnic spots with gorgeous views. The trail took us about 2 ½ hours to complete. PRO TIP: Sometimes it takes some bribery to get your kids to complete a hike without complaining. Receiving the Junior Ranger badge is one that worked well with my daughters. After the hike, we dropped by the Visitor Center to collect the girls’ Junior Ranger Badges. We presented the handbooks at the information booth, and the kids repeated an oath about protecting the park and keeping it clean before receiving their badges. It was adorable, and the kids loved the Junior Ranger program. Definitely a highlight of our trip. We loaded the car shortly thereafter and headed home. PRO TIP: If you have more time, take a drive through the upper section of Zion National Park and discover its dramatic difference in landscape compared to the rest of the park. Driving through the Mount Carmel Tunnel is such a fun experience for kids. The walls of the tunnel are interspersed with holes that allow young explorers to peek through and admire a sweeping panorama of Zion’s surroundings. A short and sweet hike suitable for kids is Canyon Overlook, located just east of the tunnel. Packing Essentials: Baby Hiking backpack. This is essential for hiking with a toddler. Stroller. This was convenient for the morning walk along the Pa'Rus Trail. Warm coats, beanies and gloves. Even if the daytime temperatures are pleasant, the mornings and evenings can still be pretty chilly this time of the year. Comfortable hiking shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty on the hikes. Plenty of snacks for the kids. Trail mix, peanut m&m's, jerky, and goldfish crackers are our go-to options. Always bring plenty of water for all members of the family. Riverside Walk and Zion Lodge have water fill stations. CHECK OUT THESE OTHER RELATED BLOG POSTS