We did several Spring hikes, before the weather got too hot, in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area which is managed by the BLM. There are 54 trails here that show up in this area on AllTrails!
The Red Cliffs National Conservation Area in southwest Utah comprises 45,600 acres of ecological diverse landscapes located at the convergence of the Mojave Desert, Colorado Plateau and Great Basin physiographic regions. The Pine Valley Mountains, part of the Dixie National Forest, lie to the north of the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, while the communities of Ivins, Santa Clara, St. George, Washington and Leeds surround the southern boundary.
Owen’s Loop and Turtle Wall & Paradise Rim Loop were two hikes that we really enjoyed that were both close to town:
The Owen’s Loop hike was 2.7 miles roundtrip with 416 feet of elevation and offered really great views looking down on St. George from the red sandstone bluffs. Parking at the trailhead had limited space but the day we did it we only passed two other hikers so it was wonderfully quiet. The gorgeous snow capped mountains in the distance were quite the contrast to the red dirt & rocks!
We were surprised at how many interesting rock formations we passed with lots of tiny arches, caves and cool erosion patterns.
This hike was 3.8 miles with 465 feet of elevation gain and one of several trail options from the parking lot (that also had a restroom). It wound its way around some wonderful rock formations and had nice open views. The fast moving clouds were stunning the day we were here.
Once we reached the bluff we had great views overlooking the town of Santa Clara before making our way back.
