Hike the Red Cliffs Recreation Nature Trail
Utah › Red Cliffs Parking Area
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Activities:
Chillin, Camping, Photography, Swimming, Hiking
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Year Round
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Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
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RT Distance:
2 Miles
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Elevation Gain:
150 Feet
This Red Cliffs hike is a fun area to explore, and could be one of the best family hikes in Southern Utah.
Hike along streams that run through red sandstone - the blue water makes a fun contrast against the red rocks and sand.
To get to the trailhead, drive to the Red Cliffs Campground about 20 minutes north of St. George. There is a small fee to park or camp at the campground.
This trail starts in the Red Cliff Campground and is easy to follow with only a mild elevation gain. It follows the stream all the way up the canyon and you are able to walk past a few small waterfalls.
Towards the end of the main trail there is a waterfall and the trail continues along the steep sandstone with footholds dug out of the rock with a rope to help maintain your balance. It isn’t too difficult to get past this point but you may want to supervise children.
After this, the trail ends due to a pool of water covering the canyon floor. However you may continue hiking up the canyon if you want to get wet or are fairly good at rock climbing.
If the temperature is warm enough you can swim in the pools or slide down some of the waterfalls. Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be leashed.
Pack List
- Cash for fee
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Sun Hat
- Swimsuit if planning on swimming
- Camera
- Snacks
This hike is really easy. The trail is wide most of the time and easy to follow. Lots of good views. There was a lot of people when we went (3.14.17), but it wasn't bothersome due to the large trail.
6 months ago
It was really fun other than the road up was closed but only when we went
7 months ago
On a hot day bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Photographer's won't want to leave their wide angle lens behind-great opportunities for cool shots.
9 months ago
Went today 08.16.16 and didn't consider the fact the water may have dried up! Haha most of the creek is dry but there's still some pretty large pools of stagnant water. Still had a blast out there and will definitely be returning in spring and a trip in the snow would be cool. It was just as described in the post though! The campgrounds are really nice too.
about 1 year ago
So fun and easy
over 1 year agoThe campground has multiple trailheads going in different directions, so look for the Red Reef trailhead right by the bridge that goes over the creek as you drive through the campground. It is a fun little family hike. My daughters loved exploring around, criss-crossing the creek. The little waterfall and pond at the end of the trail was a fun spot to rest for a bit.
over 1 year ago
This was a great place to camp! The campground is small, but the spaces are separated nicely. $15 per night per site. Water and vault toilets. The campground does fill up quickly on the weekends so arrive early. Lots of family's come hiking here so it'll get busy during the day, but settle down as the day ends. Make sure to hike the Red Cliffs trail as well. It's right off the campground. Check it out!
over 1 year ago
