Start the day in the small community of Leeds with a hike on the Silver Reef Trail In the late 1800s, this area became famous for silver discovered in sandstone, creating a bustling mining town in an unlikely desert setting. Today, trails wind through colorful hillsides and past remnants of historic structures, offering a glimpse into this unique chapter of Utah history. You can even travel further north to explore the Silver Reef Museum.

Continue to La Verkin for lunch. One option is to grab food to go and eat it in a park or perched on a cliff above the Virgin River for sweeping canyon views. One great location is behind River Rock Roasting Co. This is a trailhead to Confluence Park, where the Virgin River meets La Verkin Creek. The shaded riverside setting makes for a peaceful post-lunch stroll.

From La Verkin, drive south toward Hurricane and the towering dunes of Sand Mountain before arriving at Sand Hollow State Park. Spend the afternoon boating, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, or exploring the surrounding dunes on a side-by-side or ATV.

As the sun sets, the desert takes on a whole new personality. Stay at Sand Hollow State Park after dark for a unique experience: scorpion hunting. With a simple UV flashlight, you can spot these fascinating creatures glowing under blacklight as they emerge from the sand. It’s a fun and surprisingly educational way to experience the desert ecosystem after sunset.

If scorpion hunts are your thing, try the variety of pools at Zion Canyon Hot Springs. There is a side open to families and a side available to 21+.