Who Is Greater Zion For?

It’s easy to assume that people who visit Southern Utah are experienced hikers, climbers, and mountain bikers. While Greater Zion attracts millions of thrill-seekers each year, it’s truly a place for everyone. From family and friend trips to bachelorette parties and honeymoons, it offers a one-of-a-kind gathering place to spend time with loved ones in the natural splendor that is Greater Zion.

Locals who have lived in Greater Zion for most of their lives reveal one common thread: The sense of community here is unmistakable. You don’t have to live here to experience the collective pride. The incredible landscape, the thrill of new adventures, and the charming shops and restaurants are open to all.

Adventure For All Abilities

You don’t need to be an advanced rider to enjoy the great outdoors. Whatever your ability or interest level is, you’ll love these approachable experiences. 

A Mellow Afternoon at Thunder Junction

Thunder Junction at Tonaquint Park is a dinosaur-themed, all-abilities park. This park will please visitors of all ages with wheelchair-accessible playground equipment, a climbing wall, splash pad, erupting volcano, and a quarter-scale train on a 2,700-foot track.

Approachable Hikes in Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon State Park is one of Southwestern Utah’s best-kept secrets. This 7,400-acre State Park is minutes north of St. George and often isn’t quite as busy as Zion National Park. Hikes in Snow Canyon range from easy walks to hikes with steep slopes and uneven surfaces, so you can choose whatever works for your and your group’s ability level. For a fun introductory hike that’s also wheelchair accessible, check out Whiptail Trail. 

As with any outing in Greater Zion, make sure you do your research ahead of time and leave prepared. While most trails in Snow Canyon State Park are well-marked, it’s still possible to get turned around. You’ll find water and shade coverings at a few trailheads and rest areas in the park, but you should still carry a daypack with the essentials.

Full-Adrenaline Days at Sand Hollow State Park

Pillowy dunes surround a warm reservoir at Sand Hollow State Park, making this a must-see for off-road enthusiasts and boaters. Famous for its unique landscape where dunes practically pour into the water, this reservoir offers a Lake Powell-lite experience just 15 miles east of St. George. Add Sand Hollow State Park to your itinerary if you’re interested in a day that starts on or even nearby the water and ends with an OHV excursion.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Most trails at Zion National Park don’t allow dogs, but Greater Zion is full of dog-friendly hiking trails. Pioneer Park, Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, Snow Canyon State Park, and Pine Valley Recreation Area have trails that welcome furry family members. Keep your pup on a leash, clean up after them, and make sure they remain hydrated.

Study the Stars with a Guide

Are you looking for an unforgettable after-hours experience? Zion National Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park, and a stargazing tour is something you won’t want to miss. It’s an incredible opportunity to unplug from technology and completely absorb into nature. The stargazing tours include access to professional telescopes, binoculars, and long-exposure stargazing photographs.

Go Golfing

With mild weather and 14 courses within a 20-mile radius, Greater Zion is a golfer’s dream. At whichever course you land, you’re guaranteed challenging shots paired with stunning views that you won’t get anywhere else.

Popular Golf Courses

Dixie Red Hills: Developed in the 1960s, Dixie Red Hills is St. George’s first golf course. Since then, it’s been a favorite of recreational and serious golfers. This nine-hole golf course features red-rock settings and sandstone cliffs. With ample tree coverage, there’s plenty of shade during the heat of summer. 

The Ledges of St. George: Visit this course for a premier golf experience. This 7,200-acre course touts beautiful backdrops, expertly designed greens, lessons, tournaments, and men’s and women’s leagues. Stay-and-play packages provide three- to five-night stays in luxury vacation rentals surrounding the course, so you’ll never be too far from the first hole.

Activities for Families

The younger, the better when it comes to educating kids about responsible outdoor travel and safety. Greater Zion provides ample educational opportunities for the whole family to discover Southern Utah’s wildlife, topography, and history. Visit the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve in St. George for a family-friendly hike with incredible scenery. To see ancient petroglyphs and petrified dunes, check out Snow Canyon State Park.

Take a quick trip to Pioneer Park for a fun, easy walk. Adventurers can climb on sizable red rock formations and explore hidden nooks while enjoying spectacular views. Have kids who are crazy about dinosaurs? Take them to St. George’s Dinosaur Discovery Site to see early Jurassic dinosaur tracks and participate in hands-on exhibits.

Rejuvenate in Luxury

Looking for the luxe life? Plan a girls’ weekend or romantic getaway packed with grandeur and relaxation. Book your stay at a Greater Zion resort and make reservations for fine dining. Relax by the pool after a guided hike or spend a leisurely day shopping at local boutiques and galleries. 

Take your pick of spa services, too. Indulge yourself in a luxury massage, body treatment, or aromatherapeutic facial. Are you looking for holistic self-care? Try pilates, transformative yoga, or the Kayenta Desert Rose Labyrinth. Visit The Painted Pony, Cliffside Restaurant, Balcony One, Dulivia Ristorante Italiano, or Anasazi Steakhouse for a gourmet meal to complement the day.

Take an Art Stroll

No doubt, Greater Zion is a photographer’s paradise. Pros and smartphone snappers alike enjoy around-the-clock, picture-perfect moments. Capture the light, shapes, color, and movement of Greater Zion’s natural, other-worldly beauty during the day, then take advantage of being near an International Dark Sky Park and get those starry-night shots. 

Need inspiration? Or want to take home a professional’s artwork? Visit Greater Zion’s various galleries to view cultural, geographical, and historical interpretations.

Travel Responsibly

We can all help keep Zion in pristine shape for future generations to enjoy. We’ve asked visitors to be proactive in protecting this beautiful area’s natural and cultural resources. From packing out trash and avoiding crowded areas to supporting local restaurants and businesses, everyone can be a steward of the environment. Take the Land of Forever Pledge and learn more about how you can help with preservation efforts.