Activities - Nature Sites
Johnson Arch:
In the cliffs north of St. George Pioneer Park is an excellent spot to hike, bike, picnic, and enjoy a dramatic view of the city. There are a few trails that allow hikers and bikers to explore the sandstone rock and beautiful desert flora of the park. Of note, there are several short fences in the park that are meant to protect desert turtles from the traffic on the nearby road, and there is a chance that visitors will see turtles. The park is just off of Skyline Drive which serves as a bypass north of the city from Interstate 15 to SR-18. It is also home to the "Dixie" sign that is painted on the cliffs.
Operated by the Bureau of Land Management, the Red Cliffs Recreational Area is a great place to camp and hike. There are ten campsites for overnight use with water, picnic areas, and vault toilets. A creek meanders throughout the area, and there are several small waterfalls here when it rains. Perhaps the highlight of the area is the lookout at the end of a half mile trail that has a panoramic view of the Silver Reef Valley. This valley is the only place in the country where commercial silver deposits are found in sandstone. It is located near the town of Harrisburg off of Interstate 15 about 15 miles north of St. George. The recreational area is open year round, and camping is pleasant during the winter since the cliffs block the blustery winter winds. Call the Bureau of Land Management St. George field office at (435)688-3200 for more information. Virgin River:
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