Fall is a little different in St. George, Utah. After all, the area is always surrounded by the kind of orange hues that so many of us associate with autumn. For many, fall is a time when the falling leaves and fresh, crisp air sends us indoors with hot drinks, lit fires, and warm sweaters.
Here, in St. George, the color changes act as an invitation to set out exploring the great outdoors with fresh vigor, safe in the knowledge that the stifling summer months are far behind us. Whether you’re looking to embrace the season of Halloween or want to explore the incredible landscape, there truly is something for everyone.
So grab your pumpkin-spiced latte and settle in for a guide on how to make the most of fall in St. George.
This one simply had to come top of the list. With spectacular panoramic views and a remarkable red sandstone “sugarloaf” shape, Dixie Rock is definitely one for the St. George bucket list. As we bid goodbye to summer, now is a great time to take advantage of the cooler weather and hike up to the top. It really is a great place to draw life into perspective and appreciate incredible views of St. George, Zion National Park, White Dome, and Arizona.
Better yet, head there for a sunrise or sunset that will take your breath away. Located within Pioneer Park, there are many hiking routes to explore and boulders to climb, a way to nurture your adventurous side and reward your efforts with wondrous sites. While you’re there, see if you can locate a slot canyon to get a taste of canyoneering. This is an active activity, and perfect for the cooler weather. Be sure to take water and wear sensible hiking boots before you set out on this particular St George adventure!
It makes sense to follow Dixie Rock with the incredible 52-acre Zion National Park. If fall colors are your thing, this is the place to go. Embark on relaxed hiking routes like the Pa’rus Trail, Lower Emerald Pools Trail, Weeping Rock Trail, and Riverside Walk Trail, or opt for more challenging terrain, like Angels Landing, as you explore a wondrous national park that draws in thousands of visitors every year.
The fall months are the quietest to visit, which is perfect because they are also the most comfortable to walk in, and with spectacular photo opportunities every step of the way you’ll be sure to create memories you’ll treasure. You can even stop for a dip in the Virgin River—but be warned, the water will be cold!
Be sure to plan your visit ahead to make the most of what Zion National Park has to offer, whether it be exploring, hiking, or horse trails, there is something for everyone to appreciate in this federally preserved landscape.
As the heat of the summer declines, why not keep a lookout for some of the great festivals in the area? Southern Utah hosts some of the best fall festivals. Be sure to check out the St. George Art Museum, The DiFiore Center, the Tuacahn Amphitheater, and the Kayenta Art Village for more information.
Experience fall at a genuine farm and get involved in the many attractions they host. Catch a tractor ride to their Fall Corn Maize or experience their Field of Screams, or their Trick or Treat Trail to get in the Halloween spirit! They also have some great witchy fun up their sleeves to add to the Halloween magic.
Head over to their very own pumpkin patch and pick a pumpkin of your own choosing. Better yet, why not pick the best ones to bake a delicious pumpkin pie—does it get any more fall-like than this?
With 280 miles of ATV trails, it’s practically blasphemy to miss out on the opportunity to rent your own and go exploring the sandstone cliffs and desert landscape. Whether you want to kick up some dust and get the adrenaline pumping or take an easier ride to find lava fields, panoramic views, forest, and mountainous terrain, there is something for everyone at every ability.
It’s well worth checking out routes at Coral Sand Dunes State Park, too. Take along a sandboard to ride the dunes! Or explore all the off-roading and mixed terrain you can dream of at Sand Hollow State Park.
To get into the Halloween spirit, why not attend the Scarecrow Walk and Haunted Canyon at Red Hills Desert Garden? Here you can spot dozens of spooky scarecrow creations, as well as explore the haunted slot canyon.
Better yet, if you can get there on the opening day, you might also get the chance to decorate cookies while listening to music.
Featured scarecrows of the past have included Wizard of Oz characters, superheroes, and day-of-the-dead inspired creations. The Red Hills Desert Garden is the first desert conservation garden in Utah and is open all year round, so be sure to pay a visit and check out the latest happenings.
Fall is a great season to step back in time and visit the ghost town of Grafton—where parts of "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" were filmed—Jacob Hamblin’s home in Santa Clara, the St. George Tabernacle, the St. George Opera House, Silver Reef ghost town—which housed miners in the late 1800s—and the winter home of the second prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young. If history is your thing, there is plenty to see and do in and around St. George.
You could also head over to the historic Wendover Airfield to gain a greater understanding of what life was like in World War Two.
Whether you are looking to find something fun to do with friends, or create memories with someone close to you, you’ll be spoiled for choice in and around St. George. And, armed with your newfound knowledge, you’ll be sure to create great memories if friends or family come to stay. Most importantly, be sure to always stay safe, plan ahead, and have fun!