12 Things to Do in St. George, Utah That’ll Make You Fall in Love With the Desert
St. George, Utah sits like a jewel in the Red Rock Desert, offering adventures for every type of traveler. From stunning state parks to refreshing water activities, this desert oasis surprises visitors with its diversity. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills or cultural experiences, these activities will transform your desert perceptions and leave you planning your return before you’ve even left.
1. Explore Snow Canyon State Park
Dramatic red cliffs rise from the desert floor like nature’s skyscrapers in this geological wonderland. The park’s 7,400 acres feature ancient lava flows, towering sandstone formations, and surprising pockets of desert wildlife. Hiking the Petrified Dunes Trail feels like walking on another planet, with waves of solidified sand beneath your feet.
For a family-friendly adventure, explore the lava tubes—natural caves formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The scenic drive offers spectacular views for those preferring air-conditioned sightseeing, with plenty of pullouts for photos of the striking landscape.
2. Wander Through Pioneer Park and the Red Hills Desert Garden
Hidden gems await just minutes from downtown St. George. Pioneer Park’s massive red rock formations create a natural playground where you can scramble up boulders or find secluded nooks perfect for picnics. The nearby Red Hills Desert Garden showcases the surprising beauty of desert plants.
Winding pathways lead you through 5 acres of carefully curated native species that thrive in this harsh climate. Don’t miss the replica slot canyon with its flowing stream and fish viewing windows—a refreshing surprise that demonstrates how water shapes the desert landscape over time.
3. Hike to the Emerald Pools in Zion National Park
Just a short drive from St. George lies one of America’s most breathtaking national parks. The Emerald Pools trail system offers three distinct destinations—Lower, Middle, and Upper pools—each with increasing rewards for your effort. Hanging gardens cling to rock walls while seasonal waterfalls create misty veils cascading into crystal-clear pools below.
The contrast between red rock and lush greenery creates postcard-worthy scenes at every turn. Even during busy seasons, the trail provides moments of serenity. Morning hikers often spot wildlife coming to drink from these precious desert water sources.
4. Walk the Historic Downtown and Visit Ancestor Square
St. George’s heart beats in its historic downtown district. Nineteenth-century buildings with fascinating pioneer architecture stand alongside modern shops and restaurants, creating a charming blend of past and present. Ancestor Square houses local boutiques in renovated historic homes. The courtyard, shaded by mature trees, offers a peaceful spot to enjoy treats from nearby bakeries or browse handmade goods from local artisans.
Public art installations pop up throughout downtown, telling stories of the area’s rich cultural heritage. Evening strolls become magical as twinkling lights illuminate the walkways between buildings.
5. Tour the St. George Temple and Visitor Center
Rising majestically against the backdrop of red cliffs, the brilliant white St. George Temple creates one of Utah’s most striking visual contrasts. Completed in 1877, it stands as the oldest operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The grounds feature meticulously maintained gardens with seasonal flowers and peaceful walkways perfect for contemplation. Water features provide a soothing soundtrack as you explore the exterior architecture.
Inside the visitor center, interactive exhibits explain the temple’s historical significance and construction. Friendly guides share stories about the early pioneers who built this desert landmark by hand.
6. Bike or Hike the Gooseberry Mesa Trail
Mountain biking enthusiasts make pilgrimages to this world-famous trail system perched high above the desert floor. Technical slickrock sections challenge even experienced riders, while interconnected loops allow you to customize your adventure.
Hikers aren’t left out of the fun! The same trails offer on-foot explorers breathtaking panoramas of Zion’s distant peaks and the vast desert valley below. Early morning or late afternoon light transforms the landscape with golden hues.
Primitive camping spots along the mesa edge provide unforgettable overnight experiences. Stargazing here reveals the Milky Way with clarity rarely seen near cities.
7. Cool Off at Sand Hollow State Park
Turquoise waters shimmer like a mirage against orange sandstone shores at this desert oasis. The warm water temperatures make Sand Hollow Reservoir perfect for swimming nearly year-round—a refreshing surprise in the desert climate. Water sports enthusiasts can rent everything from simple paddleboards to powerful jet skis at the marina.
The reservoir’s 1,322 surface acres provide plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their preferred activity without crowding. Beyond the water, the Sand Mountain OHV Area offers 15,000 acres of rolling dunes for off-road adventures. Sunset drives along the shoreline reveal spectacular color displays as light plays across water and stone.
8. Catch a Show at Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Known locally as “Broadway in the Desert,” this 1,920-seat outdoor amphitheater nestles dramatically against soaring 1,500-foot red rock cliffs. Professional-quality musicals and concerts gain magical dimensions when performed in this natural setting. Shows often incorporate the landscape into productions, with actors making grand entrances down the canyon walls or special effects utilizing the natural backdrop.
Pre-show dining at the Tuacahn Café turns your evening into a complete experience. The star-filled sky becomes part of the scenery as performances continue after sunset. Cool desert evenings provide perfect temperatures for enjoying world-class entertainment in this uniquely southwestern venue.
9. Take a Day Trip to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Wind-sculpted dunes stretch across 3,730 acres in this otherworldly landscape just outside St. George. The sand’s distinctive salmon hue comes from eroding Navajo sandstone, creating a photographer’s paradise as colors shift throughout the day. Adventurous visitors can rent sandboards or sleds to surf down the steep dune faces.
The soft landings make this an exhilarating yet forgiving activity for all ages. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot the Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle—a species found nowhere else on Earth. The contrast between pink sand and blue sky creates unforgettable vistas that seem more like an artist’s imagination than reality.
10. Marvel at Dinosaur Tracks at Johnson Farm Museum
Time travel 200 million years into the past as you place your hand inside actual dinosaur footprints preserved in ancient mudstone. The Johnson Farm site contains one of the largest concentrations of dinosaur tracks in North America, with over 2,000 documented footprints.
Knowledgeable guides explain how these tracks remained hidden until 2000, when the Johnson family discovered them while clearing land. The preserved trackways show multiple dinosaur species, including the massive Eubrontes which left three-toed prints larger than dinner plates.
Children especially love the interactive exhibits that let them compare their feet to prehistoric giants. The museum’s indoor displays feature fossils and explanations of the area’s prehistoric ecosystem.
11. Climb Dixie Rock (a.k.a. Sugarloaf)
This iconic sandstone formation sits like a crown above St. George, offering relatively easy access to spectacular panoramic views. The short but steep scramble to the top rewards climbers with 360-degree vistas of the entire valley, surrounding mountains, and distant mesas.
Sunset transforms this spot into a magical experience as golden light bathes the city and red cliffs in warm hues. Photographers line the summit during these golden hours, capturing the dramatic play of light across the desert landscape.
Locals often pack picnics to enjoy at the top while watching rock climbers tackle more challenging routes on the formation’s steeper faces. The large “D” painted on the rock has been a city landmark since the 1910s.
12. Enjoy a Scenic Drive on Kolob Canyons Road
Escape the crowds while still experiencing Zion National Park’s grandeur on this lesser-known 5-mile scenic drive. Massive finger canyons carved from vibrant red Navajo sandstone create a dramatic landscape that rivals the park’s main canyon for beauty.
Multiple viewpoints along the route provide opportunities to appreciate the scenery without demanding hikes. The Timber Creek Overlook Trail at road’s end offers a short, rewarding walk to views extending over 100 miles on clear days.
Wildlife sightings are common along this quieter section of the park. Mule deer graze peacefully in meadows while golden eagles soar overhead, riding thermal currents rising from sun-warmed canyon walls.
