Are you looking to explore the stunning natural beauty and rich history surrounding St George, UT? Embark on unforgettable day trips from St George UT to discover the wonders that await just a short drive away. From majestic national parks to charming small towns, there is no shortage of exciting destinations to visit within a day’s reach of St George. Join us as we guide you through the top day trip destinations that will leave you in awe of the diverse landscapes and cultural experiences that southern Utah has to offer.
Zion National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from St George UT: 42 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour
- How to get there: Take I-15 N from St George UT, then take exit 27 for UT-17 S toward Toquerville/Hurricane. Follow UT-9 E to Zion National Park
- Click for Google maps directions: Zion National Park
Exploring Zion National Park: Things to do
Zion National Park is a breathtaking destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. As one of the most visited national parks in the United States, Zion is a must-see place for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.
One of the top activities to enjoy at Zion National Park is hiking. With a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, there is something for every level of hiker. The iconic Angel’s Landing hike is a favorite among visitors, offering stunning panoramic views of the park from the summit.
For those looking to cool off, a visit to the Virgin River is a must. The river cuts through the park, providing opportunities for swimming, tubing, and even canyoneering. The Narrows hike, where you wade through the river between towering canyon walls, is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Photography enthusiasts will also find Zion National Park to be a paradise. The dramatic red rock formations, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning images.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to connect with nature, Zion National Park offers a diverse range of experiences that make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beauty of the American Southwest.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from St George UT: 72 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1.5 hours
- To get to Bryce Canyon National Park from St George UT, take Highway 89 north until you reach the park entrance.
- Click for Google maps directions: Bryce Canyon National Park
Exploring Bryce Canyon National Park: Things to do
Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park’s unique geological formations, known as hoodoos, create a stunning landscape that is unlike any other in the world. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant colors of the rock formations, ranging from reds and oranges to pinks and whites, especially during sunrise and sunset.
One of the top activities to do in Bryce Canyon National Park is hiking. With a variety of trails catering to different skill levels, hikers can explore the park’s beauty up close. The Rim Trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon without much elevation change, making it perfect for all ages. For a more challenging hike, the Navajo Loop takes you down into the canyon among the hoodoos, providing a unique perspective of the rock formations.
Photography enthusiasts will also find endless opportunities to capture the park’s natural beauty. The changing light throughout the day creates a dynamic landscape that is a photographer’s dream. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to capture the hoodoos casting long shadows and glowing in the warm hues of the sun.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the park offers scenic drives with multiple viewpoints along the way. Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Bryce Point are just a few of the overlooks that provide panoramic vistas of the canyon. Visitors can also join ranger-led programs to learn more about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in nature, Bryce Canyon National Park offers a truly unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty of the American Southwest.
Grand Canyon National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from St George UT: Approximately 250 miles
- Time to get there: Around 4 hours by car
- How to get there: The most convenient way to reach Grand Canyon National Park from St George UT is by driving. Take US-89 S and US-89A S to AZ-64 E in Coconino County, then follow signs to the park entrance. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from St George to Flagstaff, AZ, and then transfer to a shuttle service that operates to the Grand Canyon.
- Click for Google maps directions: Grand Canyon National Park
Exploring Grand Canyon National Park: Things to do
Grand Canyon National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The sheer size and breathtaking beauty of the canyon make it a truly awe-inspiring sight. One of the top activities to do at the Grand Canyon is hiking along the rim trails, offering stunning panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River below. For a more adventurous experience, consider hiking down into the canyon on one of the challenging trails.
Another popular activity is to visit the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends out over the canyon offering a unique perspective and thrilling experience. If you prefer a more relaxed way to enjoy the scenery, take a scenic helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of the canyon’s vastness.
For history buffs, exploring the historic buildings and learning about the Native American tribes that have called the canyon home for centuries is a fascinating experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a sunrise or sunset over the canyon, as the changing colors and shadows create a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.
Lake Powell
Travel tips
- Distance from St George UT: 150 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2.5 hours
- How to get there: Take US-89 S from St George UT and continue on US-89 S to Lake Powell. The nearest bus station is in Page, Arizona, and the nearest train station is in Flagstaff, Arizona.
- Click for Google maps directions: Lake Powell
Exploring Lake Powell: Things to do
Lake Powell is a stunning reservoir located in the heart of the desert, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Boasting crystal-clear waters and towering red rock formations, Lake Powell is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of the top activities at Lake Powell is boating. With over 2,000 miles of shoreline to explore, boaters can cruise along the tranquil waters, discovering hidden coves and majestic canyons along the way. Fishing is also a popular pastime at Lake Powell, with the reservoir teeming with a variety of fish species.
For those looking to get their adrenaline pumping, water sports such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, and water skiing are available. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic Rainbow Bridge National Monument.
Visitors can also take a scenic boat tour to marvel at the sheer beauty of the red rock cliffs and mesas that line the reservoir. Camping under the starlit sky is a magical experience at Lake Powell, with several campgrounds offering a chance to reconnect with nature.
Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water or simply looking to unwind in a picturesque setting, Lake Powell has something for everyone. Plan your trip to this desert oasis and create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning natural scenery.
Snow Canyon State Park
Travel tips
- Distance from St George UT: Approximately 11 miles
- Time to get there: Around 20 minutes by car
- How to get there: From St George UT, take UT-18 N and follow signs for Snow Canyon State Park. The nearest bus station is the St George Shuttle Stop, and there are no train stations nearby.
- Click for Google maps directions: Snow Canyon State Park
Exploring Snow Canyon State Park: Things to do
Snow Canyon State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting St George, Utah. With its stunning red rock formations, diverse wildlife, and a variety of recreational activities, this state park offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
One of the top things to do at Snow Canyon State Park is hiking. The park features a network of trails that cater to all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Popular trails include the Petrified Dunes Trail, the White Rocks Trail, and the Lava Flow Trail, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For those interested in rock climbing, Snow Canyon State Park provides numerous opportunities to test your skills on the park’s sandstone cliffs. Climbers of all levels can find suitable routes to challenge themselves while enjoying the panoramic vistas from the top.
Photography enthusiasts will also appreciate the unique geological formations and vibrant colors found throughout the park. From sunrise to sunset, Snow Canyon offers endless photo opportunities, capturing the beauty of the desert landscape against the backdrop of the red rock cliffs.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy picnicking, wildlife watching, and horseback riding within the park. Whether you prefer a leisurely day exploring nature or seeking adventure in the great outdoors, Snow Canyon State Park has something for everyone.
Overall, Snow Canyon State Park’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the wonders of southern Utah’s desert landscape.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Travel tips
- Distance from St George UT: Approximately 60 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there: The most convenient way to reach Cedar Breaks National Monument from St George UT is by car. Take UT-18 N and UT-143 E to reach the monument. There are no direct bus or train stations available for this route.
- Click for Google maps directions: Cedar Breaks National Monument
Exploring Cedar Breaks National Monument: Things to do
Cedar Breaks National Monument is a hidden gem in Utah that offers stunning views and a unique natural landscape. The main attraction of the monument is the massive amphitheater, filled with colorful hoodoos and rock formations that are a sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the various trails that provide different vantage points of the amphitheater, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
For those seeking adventure, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is perfect for activities such as hiking, photography, and wildlife spotting. The monument also hosts ranger-led programs and stargazing events, allowing visitors to learn more about the natural and cultural history of the region.
One of the top things to do at Cedar Breaks National Monument is to visit Point Supreme, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The overlook provides a perfect spot for taking in the beauty of the amphitheater and capturing memorable photos. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby meadows and forests, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Overall, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its stunning scenery and abundance of outdoor activities, this hidden treasure in Utah is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Valley of Fire State Park
Travel tips
- Distance from St George UT: Approximately 50 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour drive
- How to get there: Take I-15 S from St George UT, then follow signs for Valley of Fire State Park. No direct bus or train stations available.
- Click for Google maps directions: Valley of Fire State Park
Exploring Valley of Fire State Park: Things to do
Valley of Fire State Park, known for its stunning red sandstone formations, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park offers a unique landscape that showcases the beauty of the Mojave Desert in Nevada.
One of the top activities to enjoy at Valley of Fire State Park is hiking. With trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks, visitors can explore the park’s diverse terrain and discover hidden gems around every corner. Be sure to check out popular trails like the Fire Wave Trail, White Domes Trail, and Mouse’s Tank Trail for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Photography enthusiasts will also find Valley of Fire State Park to be a paradise for capturing the vibrant colors and intricate rock formations that make this place so special. The play of light and shadow on the rocks creates a mesmerizing backdrop for any photo, making it a photographer’s dream come true.
For those interested in history and culture, the park is home to ancient petroglyphs created by the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area. These petroglyphs offer a glimpse into the past and provide a deeper connection to the land and its significance to the indigenous peoples.
In addition to hiking and photography, visitors can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and wildlife viewing at Valley of Fire State Park. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to unwind in nature, this park offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Overall, Valley of Fire State Park stands out as a must-see destination due to its unique geological features, rich history, and diverse recreational opportunities. A visit to this extraordinary park is sure to leave a lasting impression and create unforgettable memories for all who explore its wonders.
