Reasons To Visit Cedar City

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Cedar City

If you’ve ever traveled from Salt Lake to Las Vegas, you’ve most likely passed through Cedar City. Residents of Utah will tell you it’s a great stop. But, if you’ve never stopped there, you’re missing out on some of the great things Cedar City has to offer. Cedar City has access to the outdoors, entertainment, and views you can’t find anywhere else. Whether you’ve been there before or not, Salt Lake Express is here to show all the great reasons to visit Cedar City!

Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon is one of the five National Parks in Utah. The Canyon has more than fourteen hiking opportunities. Each with their own unique views and access to the park. Visitors to Bryce can find a hike for them no matter how much experience they have. The park also offers opportunities for horseback riding, bird watching, camping, and much more. If you’re traveling with Salt Lake Express, you should definitely add Bryce Canyon to your travel plans.

Zion National Park

Like Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park provides hiking, camping, and other activities for visitors. However, Zion is known as one of the premier national parks in the country. In addition to the activities we’ve already mentioned, Zion provides opportunities for rock climbing, cycling, canyoneering, and more. Visitors with an interest in adventure can go to the extreme in this park. For travelers with a more laid-back approach, there are several tours, small hikes, rivers, and picnic opportunities to enjoy. If you travel to Cedar City, know there is something for everyone in nearby Zion National Park.

Utah Shakespeare Festival

Crowd at the Shakespeare Festival

If you’re looking for something closer to the city, you can always stop by the Utah Shakespeare Festival while they’re in season. We’ve mentioned this festival before. But, no matter how long its been, we always have to mention it again. Because the Utah Shakespeare Festival is amazing. The Festival runs from June through September, and provides entertainment and opportunities for both theatre enthusiasts and thespians. Southern Utah University has hosted the Shakespeare Festival for over fifty years. Each season, actors perform three classic Shakespeare plays. While volunteers help run activities, competitions, seminars, and tours. The festival has also won several awards. Including a Tony, Emmy, and an award from Utah’s governor. If you travel to Cedar City next summer, be sure to stop by the Utah Shakespeare Festival.

Kanarra Falls

Visitors willing to go a short distance outside of Cedar City can visit the beautiful Kanarra Falls. The falls lie in a slot canyon. Hikers have to traverse the narrow canyon floor and climb a short ladder in order to get to the falls. The hike is relatively difficult, so inexperienced hikers had better travel in a group. As always in these situations, bring a first aid kit and let someone know where you are going just in case. The hike requires visitors to wade through water at some point so be willing to get a little wet. The view is definitely worth the trip.

Skiing Opportunities

Cedar City is a short distance from Brian Head Resort. One of the best skiing resorts in Utah. The resort opens ski runs Nov 19, 2021 and will close at the end of ski season. Anyone who loves skiing knows that Utah has the best snow on earth. Professionals love the light, soft, powdery snow that you find in the Rocky Mountains. What better place to enjoy winter weather than a resort with over 71 runs and skiing opportunities. Even if you have no desire to ski, the resort offers plenty of activities, hot and cold, to keep you entertained. If you’re a Salt Lake Express traveler looking for a vacation in the winter, this is the place.

St. George Express Zion National Park 15

4 Things To Plan Before Your Trip To St. George

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St. George Express and Salt Lake Express make visiting St. George convenient and memorable. However, trips are not fun unless you know what is in store. There are four things you need to consider before planning your trip to St. George. These things include museums/history, activities, parks, and food.

The Museums & History of St. George

St. George has loads of history and museums to display the amazing artifacts from history. Just outside of St.George is The Jacob Hamlin house. Inside there are preserved artifacts from the 1800s. These artifacts depict what life was like from Jacob Hamlin who played a huge role in serving the American Indians and settling St. George. Another key player in the history of St. George is Brigham Young.

St. George

In St. George you can find the Brigham Young Winter home. Tours of the home show what life was like for him and his growing family in the 1870s as well as his participation in the community.

Another gem found in the heart of St.George is the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum which is packed with pictures and artifacts from the pioneers. They offer tours and have a fun scavenger hunt to participate in.

Rosenbruch Wildlife Museum is another fun place to visit. There you can find wildlife from every continent. You are free to walk around on your own or pick up an electronic wand and be taught by individual narration about the creatures that roam and have roamed our continents.

The Activities

If you are looking for an outside adventure, St. George does not disappoint. The winters in St.George are pretty mild but if you go to certain resorts the mountains are full of skiers and snowboarders.

The summers on the other hand are hot. But there is nothing better than spending a hot summer afternoon near the water. St. George is home to three perfect water locations. Whether you choose to go fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding or boating you will enjoy yourself at Sand Hollow State Park, Gunlock State Park, and Quail Creek State Park.

If you like shooting come practice your aim at “The shooting experience”. Horseback riding or ATVing is a unique way to view some of the canyons and trails in St. George. All of these activities are loads of fun but nothing beats hiking through the canyons of the state and national parks.

The Parks

St.George is known for its red rocks and national and state parks. You can visit one park or go see a few. Each park has unique wildlife, vegetation and rock formations.

Chuckwalla Trail

At the head of the Chuckwalla Trail you can find people rock climbing or repelling down the rocks. As you head down the path you can see several caves in the rocks, as well as a variety of trees, flowers and wildlife.

At the end of the trail there is a mini arch. That looks over a beautiful view of the red rock land below.

Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon is a State Park that offers 12 unique trails just off of one road. Throughout the park there are several parking places, picnic areas and bathrooms. In the middle of the park, surrounded by red rock are one of a kind camping sites. It is also home to a diversity of plants and wildlife that are only found in this state park.

You can check out the Snow Canyon State Park Trail Map here.

In the middle of all this red rock however, is some white rock mountains. Due to its color one of the first trails at the top of Snow Canyon is called White rocks trail. It is a 4 mile trail that passes through red, white and black rock. A Quarter mile into the hike there is a fork in the path. If you take a right at this point you will come to the White rocks Amphitheater. This trail is a total of 1 mile that leads your to an amphitheater of natural sandstone and back.

Further down the road is the Lava Flow trail. This trail 2.5 miles of uneven surfaces due to the jumbled lava rock. There are also two lava tubes that are big enough to climb into.

Petrified Dunes is another fun hike. It is 1.2 miles long. There are some steep, uneven surfaces but a pretty moderate hike. This hike walks along Navajo sandstone outcrops and sand dunes that are petrified and frozen in time.

Snow Canyon is family friendly park. The shorter length hikes make it possible to enjoy more than one hike and see a variety of different views.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is open everyday of the year, however some facilities and services may be closed during certain parts of the year. A free shuttle is in operation March through late November. The shuttle starts at the Visitors Center and goes to the end of the park. There are 8-9 stops depending on the time of year and weather. Due to the weather and rock slides some trails may be closed as well. It is smart to have an idea of what trails you want to hike before you arrive to make the most of your time.

Here is the Zion National Park Shuttle and Trail Map.

Angels Landing

One of the most famous hikes in Zion is called Angels Landing. Although the view from this hike is breath taking, this hike is not for everyone. This hike is 5.4 miles with and elevation change of 1488 ft which means long drop offs. Since 2004, 10 people have died falling from the cliffs on this route. The path is often snowy and icy. It is not for young children of people with fear of heights.

The Upper Emerald Pools

The Upper Emerald Pools is another popular hike. It is a mile long hike across a sandy and rocky path. The hike ends at the Upper Emerald Pools at the base of a cliff. In the winter the pool is covered in snow and ice but is still beautiful. In the summer when the snow has melted the pool is an emerald green color with vegetation surrounding the pool.

The Temple of Sinawava

Temple of Sinawava is the last stop that the shuttles go to. It has a beautiful view along with bathrooms and water. This stop takes you to the trail head of Riverside Walk and The Narrows. The Riverside Walk is just what its name says. It is 2.2 miles of paved trail along side the river. It is wheelchair accessible and very easy but can get pretty cold in between the canyons. At the end of this trail is the start of The Narrows trail. This hike is one of a kind but pretty strenuous. It is an additional 7.2 miles and most of that is through water. However, there are boots and dry suits available at the visitor center for this hike.

The Food

Food is always an important part of a vacation. No matter what you are in the mood for, they have it in St.George. Some of the local favorites are as follows. The Painted Pony is a well loved fine dining restaurant that serves American Contemporary food. The Hawaiian Poke Bowl is another option. It has 5 stars on trip adviser and its seafood, Polynesian food and Hawaiian food does not disappoint. Red Fort Cuisine of India is another favorite. It is a traditional Indian food restaurant. Another cheaper, yet popular option is Irmita’s Casita which is a Mexican restaurant. They offer all types of options from authentic to Tex-Mex.

Whether you want to relax and enjoy the scenery with some good food or experience an action filled adventure, St. George is the place to visit. So when you plan your trip to St. George, remember that the Salt Lake Express and the St. George Express are here to help.

St. George Express Bryce Canyon National Park

The A-Z of Traveling with the Salt Lake Express

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The A-Z of Traveling Up & Down the I-15 Corridor

Travel like a pro with our A-Z guide for trekking west with the Salt Lake Express. As we share our A-Z of traveling list, think of your own and what you might do differently and feel free to let us know!

A: All-Inclusive

Gone are the days without extra legroom and drop-offs right at your door. The Salt Lake Express has countless perks – check out some of the best right here! It’s the perfect way to kick off our A-Z of traveling with us!

B: Beaver Dam, AZ

Beaver Dam, one of our stops in Arizona, may not seem like party central at first. However, if casinos are your thing, Beaver Dam is just 17 minutes away from the Nevada border! It’s also only a 37 minute drive away from St. George, Utah. Check out inexpensive things to do in St. George here.

C: Cedar City, UT

Next on the list, we’re headed to southwest Utah! Cedar City has plenty to offer – not only is it close to Zion National Park (only 34 miles away!), but it also boasts other fabulous outdoor opportunities, such as Cedar Breaks National Monument and Dixie National Forest.

D: Darby Canyon, WY

Darby Canyon sits on the border of Idaho and Wyoming, and is only approximately 1 – 1.5 hours away from our stops in Rexburg, ID and Jackson, WY, respectively. Whether you’re headed out to hike the trailhead or explore the wind caves, stopping at Darby Canyon if you’re staying in either state is a must.

E: Emigration Canyon, UT

If you ever wonder where exactly Brigham Young famously declared, “This is the place,” then Emigration Canyon is the spot for you. If you’re stopping in Salt Lake City, Emigration Canyon houses the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, perfect for hiking or biking, as well as a couple of local places to eat, such as Ruth’s Diner.

F: Falls, as in Great Falls, MT

Great Falls, our northernmost stop here at the Salt Lake Express, has much to offer with multiple heritage museums, hundreds of local restaurants, and over 57 parks. It’s the perfect blend of big city excitement and small town charm.

G: Grand Teton National Park, WY

The A-Z of Traveling with the Salt Lake Express - GTNP

Hop off at our stop in Jackson, Wyoming, and head over to Grand Teton National Park! Teeming with alpine views, crystal lakes, and adventurous animals, it’s definitely a sight to see.

H: Helena, MT

Next stop on our list is Helena, Montana! Did you know there’s a gorgeous European-style cathedral right in the city? You’ve also GOT to check out the Gates of the Mountains wildlife area. It showcases some of the most beautiful views Montana has to offer.

I: Island Park, ID

You haven’t really been to Idaho until you’ve been to Island Park. If you love the outdoors, Island Park is the Salt Lake Express stop for you, with access to so many mountains, lakes, springs, and more.

J: Jerome, AZ

Say hello to the nation’s largest ghost town, just half a day’s trip from our stop in Page, AZ. Once known as “America’s Wickedest City,” Jerome once boomed as a mining camp in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Once the mines closed in the 1950’s, Jerome’s population became virtually nonexistent – however, it’s now a thriving tourist hub with plenty to see.

K: Kodachrome Basin State Park, UT

Kodachrome Basin State Park, named after one of the first color films developed in the 1930s. And rightfully so – the park is bursting with color! Seeing those red rock formations contrast against a brilliant blue sky will leave you speechless.

L: Las Vegas, NV

The A-Z of Traveling with the Salt Lake Express - Las Vegas

Las Vegas is one of our most popular stops here at the Salt Lake Express. It’s most popular tourist spots seem to span the entire city, with plenty of nightlife, gambling, and faux world attractions covering the entire surrounding areas.

We have also added a direct stop at the Las Vegas LDS Temple to accommodate patrons while the LDS temple in St. George is closed until 2022.

M: Montana

The A-Z of Traveling with the Salt Lake Express - Montana

We love Montana! From stops in Dillon, Butte, Helena, Great Falls, and more, we have I-15 covered. The state is home to seven state forests and 53 state parks – talk about adventure!

N: National Parks

What’s better than a shuttle service that takes you straight to the great outdoors? Here at Salt Lake Express, we stop at three national parks, of which are Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Zion National Park.

O: Ogden, UT

If we had to pick one word to describe Ogden, it would be eclectic. Ogden’s got rock climbing, a dinosaur park, indoor water sports, axe-throwing, a trampoline park, and so much more. Check out all the entertainment that Ogden has to offer right here.

P: Lake Powell, UT

Did you know that Lake Powell is not technically a lake? It’s a reservoir located in southern Utah! While it’s a little further out from our stops than some of the other locations on this list, we definitely recommend visiting at least once – there’s tons to do, like boating, hiking, fishing, and camping.

Q: Quail Creek State Park, UT

Quail Creek State Park, located in southern Utah, is a short 20-minute drive from St. George and boasts some of the state’s warmest waters. Learn more about it here.

R: Rainbow Rocks, Nevada

The A-Z of Traveling with the Salt Lake Express - Rainbow Rocks

Okay, we had to get a little creative with this one. We’re actually talking about the Seven Magic Mountains, a desert art installation that features rock towers painted in a myriad of beautiful colors! It’s only 10 miles south of Las Vegas, and is scheduled to be available on view through the end of 2021.

S: St. George Express

Did you know we also operate another shuttle service? The St. George Express has fares as low as $19, and travels to Nevada and southern Utah! Currently, we have stops in Beaver, Cedar City, St. George, and Hurricane for Utah. We also have stops in Mesquite and Las Vegas for Nevada.

T: Twin Falls, ID

Twin Falls hosts Shoshone Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the United States! It’s taller than Niagara Falls, which is probably why it’s called the “Niagara of the west.” While you’re at it, check out these awesome attractions and trails in the area!

U: Utah State University

At the heart of our stop in Logan is Utah State University, the “fifth best public university in the nation,” according to their website. Know someone who’s applying for college? Stop in Logan and take a tour of USU!

V: Virgin River, Utah

Much of the Virgin River runs through Zion National Park, so if you’re headed that way, make sure to hike through the Narrows and feel the water splash your feet!

W: Wasatch Mountains

The Wasatch Mountain Range is one of Utah’s defining characteristics. Cities in the Wasatch area are sprawling with beautiful canyons, exclusive ski resorts, world-class golf, and more. Start planning your trip right here, right now.

X: Cross something off your bucket list!

See what we did there? With the Salt Lake Express, you have easy access to hundreds of beautiful destinations across the west. Plan a trip. Make it happen. We’ll take you there!

Y: Yellowstone National Park

Did you know that Yellowstone is the world’s first national park? Amazing! National Geographic has much to praise about it. Yellowstone’s most popular (and most accessible!) months are between April and September. Plan your trip today!

Z: Zion National Park

The A-Z of Traveling with the Salt Lake Express - ZNP

There’s a reason that “Z” on our list of A-Z of traveling is Zion. Get ready for the most spectacular views of your life at Utah’s first national park. Check out our blog post about six things you HAVE to do when visiting Zion.

There you have it, the A-Z of traveling with Salt Lake Express! We hope that many of you will treat this like a bucket list of sorts as you continue to travel with us in the future!

Bryce Canyon, one of the great Utah destinations

5 Utah Destinations to Visit Before Summer Ends

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In the 1966 cult classic surfing documentary Endless Summer, a couple of surfers travel both sides of the equator for one year searching for the perfect wave, enjoying an “endless summer”. Salt Lake Express does not have a travel route that expansive, so by necessity, summer must end for us. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t time to check out the many great Utah destinations at your fingertips.

The Beehive State is famous for its national parks, opportunities for hiking, and breathtaking scenery. From the majesty of the Wasatch Range to the red-hued geology of southern Utah, the landscape provides plenty of diversions. If this gorgeous part of the country doesn’t provide an endless summer, it certainly encourages endless summer fun. And now in the month of August, the pressure is on to take advantage of what remains of the season.

Here are a five Utah destinations you’ll want to make sure you visit this month.

Zion National Park

Zion, one of the great Utah destinations
Photo courtesy of Wolfgang Staudt, via Flickr

Zion National Park is not only one of the most beautiful Utah destinations, it is also extremely inviting. Scores of hiking trails weave through this national park, including the popular Narrows, a hike down and in the Virgin River through the narrowest gorges of Zion Canyon.

Fascinating wild and plant life also swarm the lovely sandstone cliffs and wilderness, adding to the camping and hiking allure. Learn more about park fees, permits, and other things to do at Zion’s by visiting their official website.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, one of the great Utah destinations
Photo courtesy of Garrett, via Flickr

Some of the best that Utah has to offer can be found in the sights, sounds, and culture of its capital. Salt Lake City keeps the summer party going even going into September. The ongoing Red Butte Garden Outdoor Concert Festival entertains with events through mid-September, the Real Madrid schedule begins this month, and City Creek is all the more enjoyable in warm weather.

From concerts to festivals to dining, Salt Lake attracts thousands upon thousands of visitors each year. And as our namesake, Salt Lake Express is proud to help sustain that exodus. Join us in Salt Lake City this summer before the cool weather moves in.

Bonneville Salt Flats

Bonneville Salt Flats, one of the great Utah destinations
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, via Wikimedia.

Home to the Bonneville Speedway and numerous land speed records, the Bonneville Salt Flats are a mere two hours west of Salt Lake City. The dense salt pan is a natural phenomenon and definitely worth checking out for its own sake. Not to mention there are several places to camp nearby — though not on the flats!

And when we say flats, we mean flat. You can practically see the curvature of the earth, and there is no vegetation to decorate the landscape. This truly otherworldy part of the state is one of the most impressive Utah destinations.

Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon, one of the great Utah destinations
Photo courtesy of PiConsti, via Flickr

Just 72 miles from Zion is yet another national park — Bryce Canyon National Park, which includes more sandstone features, huge, breathtaking amphitheaters, and a dazzling array of color. Summer is a great time to visit Bryce Canyon, but late August and September are especially timely; at this point, the summer rains have subsided and temperatures are still pleasant. In fact, while other popular outdoor areas in southern Utah experience fairly scorching heat, Bryce Canyon remains more temperate.

If you are looking to visit Utah destinations off the beaten path, Bryce is several hours from any major airport and over 100 miles from the I-15. We’re happy to take you as close as we can!

Bear Lake

Bear Lake, one of the great Utah destinations
Photo courtesy of Andrew Kalat, via Flickr

On the other end of the state, straddling the Utah-Idaho border, Bear Lake boasts just about all the summer fun you can imagine. Swimming, boating, camping, and fishing are all available from both states’ sides.

You can also enjoy summer events at Bear Lake, such as the Bear Lake County Fair and coinciding Rodeo Days.

Our summer days may be numbered, but in Utah, there are plenty of attractions to fill them up. From the diverse cultural experience of the city to the beauty and wonder of the parks, these Utah destinations are ideal during this time of year.

Book your trip to your next destination with Salt Lake Express and we will take you there or to the nearest drop-off point. This state is vast and open for adventure, so make good use of the summer and explore its endless majesty.

Charter Bus Rentals for Group Transportation - fleet.

Charter Bus Rentals for Group Transportation

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We as human beings have a primal desire to fall into groups. We marry, raise families, work in companies, go out with friends, join teams, and go to movie theaters. And sometimes, this desire to pack together not only has social and emotional benefits but logistical as well. It is much easier to move a planeful of people from one country to another than to individually ship them. And at Salt Lake Express, we offer charter bus rentals because we know your need for group transportation.

There are many ways to individually get from point A to point B. But when it comes to moving an entire team or another group of people, options become more limited. Say you’re a baseball team with not only a whole roster of players but a large amount of equipment. Or maybe you’re a church group and you need space for all the food to feed them. Very quickly, a well-intentioned work retreat can turn into a logistical nightmare.

This is where Salt Lake Express can show you what it’s really made of. Just how can we help you transport your group, and whom do we serve? That is what we hope to address.

Charter Bus Rentals for Group Transportation - MCI D-Series

We offer charter bus rentals.

Salt Lake Express is a time-honored shuttle service serving over 100 stops throughout the intermountain west. Spanning from Montana all the way down to Nevada, our route includes numerous popular destinations like Yellowstone, Zion’s National Park, Sun Valley, and Las Vegas. With this blessing of serving such areas comes an inherent responsibility. Millions of people visit these and other spots annually, and most come from outside the region. We are committed to assisting them in their journey.

And more often than not, people make these trips as groups, not just individually. This where the issue of logistics returns. How do you comfortably move a large group of people when there is such limited space, and high demand? The answer lies in charter bus rentals.

With four different bus models in our fleet, we are well-equipped from the beginning to customize your trip to your needs. If you are traveling a longer distance, you can specify that you require a restroom on the bus. Thankfully, each of our buses comes with heating and air conditioning so no matter the weather, you can still comfortable on the bus. Each bus, regardless of the model, also comes with overhead storage and reclining, high-back seats.

Convenience and specific requests come at no extra cost — just identify what you need and we’ll take care of it.

Charter Bus Rentals for Group Transportation - Grech M2 GM40

We offer group transportation.

We and our drivers take group transportation very seriously. The overall success of your trip — and the determinant of future trips like it — largely depends on having the right travel accommodations.

Is everyone comfortable? Is the bus traveling at a safe speed? Have we been living up to the promises we made? These are the questions our drivers ask themselves. We want you to not only be safe and comfortable but to have an overwhelmingly positive charter bus experience.

No matter the group, we provide transportation at an unbeatable group price. Here are just a few of the different groups we provide charter bus rentals for.

Charter Bus Rentals for Group Transportation - M1235

Athletic

We’re coming into the baseball season, which means you’ll need to get your team to state and regional championships in a couple months. But no matter the sport, regardless of the season, we are dedicated to getting you, your team, and your equipment there safely. Our charter bus drivers also sometimes even get into the team spirit and cheer the team on.

School

From field trips to competitions, Salt Lake Express also works with high schools, colleges, and universities. Take your school group on your next educational outing through one of our charter bus rentals.

Corporate

Taking the office on a corporate retreat? Hoping to dress potential future VPs? Take everyone to that placid lake all together on the same bus. Our Gretsch Freightline M2 GM40 is well-equipped for corporate group transportation. With Salt Lake Express’ motto — “Executive Service. Always” — you know on whom you can depend.

Special events

Don’t leave us to define your reason for renting a charter bus from Salt Lake Express…no matter your special event, convention, what-have-you, we are here to serve you and your needs. When receiving a quote for your charter, let us know how we can make your experience an unforgettable one.

Charter Bus Rentals for Group Transportation - Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

We offer the best prices.

Renting a charter bus for group transportation can be expensive. It makes sense; for one rate, you’re moving a large group of people and shuttle companies need to beat their margins.

We understand the logistical need for a charter, however, and we also understand that budget is the first thing on a customer’s mind. If you wish to rent a charter through Salt Lake Express, we will give you a quote and do our best to work within your budget.

In our human desire to be and travel in groups, Salt Lake Express is making it easier to do so with our charter bus rental services.

Whether you are chartering for group transportation for work, school, sports or something else, we take your trip seriously. And with four different models of bus to choose from and several amenities to include, you can start planning your customized charter trip today.

Be sure to follow Salt Lake Express on social media to receive information on promo codes and charter services.

Things to do in St. George for Cheap

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St. George, Utah is one of the best cities in the world for inexpensive activities. Outdoor activities reign supreme. Because of temperatures that average over 70 degrees seven months of the year, people are always looking for new things to do. Here’s a list of 10 inexpensive ideas of things to do in St. George.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park could have a list of ten things to do just by itself. This world-famous national park is just 45 minutes from downtown St. George. Because the whole family can experience some of the best hiking, backpacking, climbing, and biking in the world, it comes at a cost – $25 per car.

Zion National Park is a world-famous park in St. George's backyard

Pioneer Park / Dixie Rock

Similarly, Pioneer Park is 52 acres of the famous red rocks of Utah. Feel free to explore the hills and cracks, or climb up Dixie Rock for a view that overlooks St. George.

Snow Canyon State Park

If you think Zion National Park is too big, and Pioneer Park is too small, Snow Canyon State Park will be just right. With all of the same features as the other two, some people prefer Snow Canyon State Park because it’s often overlooked by the common tourist. Just 20 minutes away from St. George, Snow Canyon State Park is popular among locals.

https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/snow-canyon/

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

Because of the rapid expansion of southern Utah, the government took action in 1996. Over 60,000 acres were set aside to protect plants and animals alike. The desert tortoise, Gila monster, and other snakes and reptiles are often found here. The visitor center is open from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

Gila Monsters are common in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

Chuckawalla Climbing Wall

The Chuckawalla Climbing Wall is located at the beginning of the Chuckawalla trailhead. Climbers of any skill level can climb here, making it one of the most popular climbing areas in the state.

Coyote Gulch Art Village

So, you’ve had enough of the red rocks? While that’s what most of the outdoor activities in St. George entail, there are other things to do in St. George. The Coyote Gulch Art Village is a fun place to explore and experience Utah’s Kayenta Community. The art village is open to the public and free, although the actual art is very expensive.

http://www.coyotegulchartvillage.com/

St. George Tabernacle

There’s a strong Latter-day Saint (Mormon) culture in St. George, dating back more than 150 years. A white temple stands tall in the St. George landscape. Anybody is able to walk around the grounds, but only members of the church are able to actually go inside. Because of that, many people choose to visit the St. George Tabernacle instead. The tabernacle opened over 140 years ago and is now a historic St. George building. Close to the city center, the tabernacle is a nice place to stop by to experience a little bit of the history of St. George.

Parks on every corner

St. George and neighboring cities have worked hard to make sure parks are central to the outdoor life in St. George. Families can spend a warm afternoon at any one of the many parks in the city.

Parks are found everywhere - just one of many things to do in Saint George

Events

Since it’s over 70 degrees for seven months out of the year, there’s always something going on in St. George! Click on the link below to find a month-by-month list of all of the different events going on in this busy city.

https://www.visitstgeorge.com/calendar/2017/05/

Outdoor Activities

While on this list were specific places about where to hike, backpack, climb, and mountain bike, St. George (and all of southern Utah) is your playground. Get outside, head any direction, experience the diversity of the beautiful landscape of southern Utah. There’s plenty of things to do in St. George.

 

A Weekend Getaway to St. George, Utah

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Need a weekend getaway from the stresses of everyday life? St. George, Utah is a great escape location full of complete relaxation and amazing activities. You’ll experience warm sunny weather, gorgeous scenery, hiking, art, heavenly food, and so much more.

St. George is located in southern Utah. It enjoys a desert climate with mild winters and over 300 days of sunshine per year. The town is surrounded by red rock summits and deep canyons. It’s within a two-hour drive of the Grand Canyon, an hour to Zion National Park, and 90 minutes to Las Vegas. Lastly, the elevation changes from 2,860 feet in St. George to over 10,000 feet just 20 miles north.things-to-do-in-st-george-utah-getaway

Read Top 5 Hiking Trails in St. George

Downtown St. George itself hosts community events, concerts, and street fests each month. Town Square and the Red Hill Golf Course alone make it a worthwhile stay. To get started on the ultimate weekend getaway, below are some great ideas of places to stay, eat, and experience.

 

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Places to Stay

There are three places we recommend to stay, ranging from from least expensive to most expensive. First is The Best Western Plus Abbey Inn and Suites. It has an indoor whirlpool spa, a heated outdoor pool, exercise room, and guest laundry. Next is Inn On The Cliff which is moderately expensive, but well worth the cost. It was featured by trivago.com in an article as one of 18 spectacular hotels that must be added to any bucket list. It is known for “simply luxurious rooms” and an enhanced cliff side view overlooking St. George. Finally, and most expensive, is Red Mountain Resort. It is one of the most luxurious destination spa resorts. Features include daily guided morning hikes, walking trails, bicycling, fitness classes, and indoor and outdoor pools.

Read 5 Things to do in St. George Utah

Places to Eat

With so many options available in St. George it is hard to find the perfect place to eat, but The Black Bear Diner, Sakura, and The Cliffside Restaurant are fantastic options. The Black Bear Diner offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is beautifully decorated, has a friendly staff, and has more menu selections than imaginable.  Sakura is a Japanese restaurant that serves sushi, hibachi, and Thai dishes. All aspects of the sushi cooking process is performed in front of your eyes. Prepare to be dazzled by the skillful mastery and showmanship of the chefs. And then Cliffside Restaurant offers not only an amazing view, but also a unique experience that you will not find anywhere else in southern Utah.  It is a local favorite and has a great variety of American-based foods.

Things to Do

activities-in-st-george-utah-getawayThat brings up the topic of things to do. First on the list is going toZion National Park and hiking, camping, and watching the wildlife. It has over 100 miles of trails and 15 miles of paved walkways. Canyoneering is also one of the more popular things to do in Zion National Park. Another great weekend getaway activity is stopping by the Coyote Gulch Art Village in Kayenta. Kayenta is an artsy, desert community a few minutes northwest of downtown St. George, and is also home to the Desert Rose Labyrinth with more than 1,800 indigenous rocks patterned. Next is exploring Gunlock Resevoir. It is 20 minutes from St. George and has soft orange sand and blue water. Top features include kayaking, exploring caves in the rocks, and some cliff jumping.

Top 5 Hiking Trails in St. George

Posted by Salt Lake Express on

St. George is a top travel destination for many reasons. It has red soil and rock formations, historical sites, golf courses, palm trees, and extremely fun sand dunes. With so many options available, St. George offers endless opportunities to all ages. But there is one activity that brings people to St. George from all over the world: the hiking trails.

There are so many great hiking trails available around St. George it’s hard to not find a hike you’ll enjoy.  If you’re looking for a family friendly trail or just an adventurous trail St. George has options. However, below we have provided a list of the top 5 hiking trails in the surrounding areas of St. George to get you started on the right hike.

1) HellHole Canyon – Kayenta Canyon

First is Hellhole Canyon Trail. This hike takes you into a canyon that is not visible from the road, and, depending on the time of year, will reward you with a spectacular waterfall! The hike does have a few steep climbs and takes you along some drop-offs. Plan on taking a couple of hours, as this trail is roughly 3.2 miles round trip.

2) Johnson Canyon – Snow Canyon State Park

Next is Johnson Canyon Trail. This hike is a great option for families! The trail passes through a lava flow field and into a canyon where you will see a spring and a 200-ft arch. As you make your way, there are many places to rest in the shade as well as a place to sit and have a picnic. Plan on taking about an hour of hiking there and back as this trail is roughly 1.8 miles long.

3) Petrified Dunes – Snow Canyon State Park

Another great hike is Petrified Dunes Trail. This trail has mounds of petrified Navajo Sandstone and has some of the most incredible views in the park. The hike is one of the most photographed places in the area and accessible for exploring and wandering off the trail! Plan on taking about an hour of hiking as well. The hike is roughly 1.2 miles long.

4) Lava Flow – Snow Canyon State Park

Following Petrified Dunes is Lava Flow Trail and it is also great for families. It takes you past three lava tube or cave entrances, and through a lava field. The trail is also very educational; signs along the trail explain all about the lava tubes. There are opportunities to explore the lava tubes, so make sure to bring flashlights! Plan on taking about two hours to hike this two-mile trail.

5) Kanarra Creek – Kannaraville Falls

Last is Kannara Creek Trail. This trail takes you up a canyon and through lots of little streams and creeks. You won’t be able to complete it without getting wet, so plan accordingly. The trail crosses Kanarra Creek and eventually enters a slot in the canyon where hikers will enter a slit in the canyon. The slit has roughly 3-6 inches of water you have to cross in order to see the falls. Plan on taking about three hours to hike the trail, as it is about 4.8 miles long.

5 Things To Do in St. George Utah

Posted by Salt Lake Express on with 1 Comment

Are you in need of a warm weekend getaway? Then St. George, Utah is the place for you! Visit St. George to enjoy a variety of activities. Explore the beautiful red rock sandstone during all times of the year. Enjoy watching outdoor plays as the sun goes down. Go site seeing through the many different parks and see breathtaking views unlike any other. These are just a few of the many things to do in St. George, Utah! Read below to see what our top 5 things to do in St. George are.

 

1. Zion National Park

You can’t visit St. George, Utah without exploring Zion National Park! Zion National Park is an amazing canyon with over 147,000 acres of parkland. Enjoy breathtaking views as you hike to the top of Angels Landing or walk alongside the river at Riverside Walk. Take the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to see landscapes unlike any other. You can also spend the night camping at either Watchman, South or Lava Campgrounds. Zion National Park has it all! Come to St. George and experience hiking, biking, rock climbing, canyoneering and camping at Zion National Park!

things to do in St. George Utah
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2. Tuacahn Amphitheater

If you like movies, plays, concerts, musicals or being outdoors then Tuacahn is for you! Tuacahn Amphitheatre let’s you enjoy an outdoor show unlike any other. In the spring of 1995, Tuacahn Amphitheatre opened its doors for the first time. Seating 2,000 people, the outdoor Amphitheatre brings a show to life right before your eyes. Enjoy their 2017 Broadway Season filled with the amazing shows Shrek the Musical, Newsies, and Mamma Mia. You can check ticket pricing or purchase your tickets online. Visiting Tuacahn is just one of the many things to do in St. George, Utah!

 

 

3. Snow Canyon State Park

Located in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, Snow Canyon State Park is a 7,4000-acre scenic park. Enjoy majestic views as you explore the 38 miles of hiking trails. If you plan on visiting for the day, it costs $6 for a vehicle with up to eight people and $2 for a vehicle with nine or more people. Explore views of nature at Snow Canyon State Park by looking for wildlife while hiking, biking or camping. This is a family friendly park to visit on your next vacation to St. George, Utah!

things to do in St. George Utah
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4. Kanarraville Falls Hike

Enjoy the heat of St. George by going on the Kanarraville Falls Hike! This is a water hike that you’ll want to cool off in during those hot summer days! The hike is 4.8 miles round-trip and is covered with lush trees and plants. The best time of the year to go is late spring, summer, and early fall. It  doesn’t cost to hike Kanarraville Falls, but if you are parking a car then there is a $10.00 parking fee. Enjoy walking through the flowing stream the entire hike! Remember to visit Kanarra Creek and enjoy the hike to the falls next time you visit St. George, Utah!

things to do in St. George Utah
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5. Pioneer Park

If you are a person that enjoys exploring and rock climbing, then Pioneer Park is for you! Pioneer Park has over 52 areas of land and offers an amazing view of Zion National Park and part of Arizona. This is a free park that is fun for people of all ages. Venture out to find Boy Scout Cave, slot canyons or Dixie Rock. Spend the day exploring with family and friends at Pioneer Park! This is another fun thing to do in St. George, Utah.

things to do in St. George Utah
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