Chasing Horizons: A Long Weekend in Southwestern Utah
If you're craving red rock landscapes, outdoor adventures, and wellness-inspired vibes, South West Utah (SWU) is calling your name. Whether you’re flying into the bright lights of Vegas or landing closer to the action in St. George, here’s your go-to guide to exploring this stunning slice of Utah.
Getting There
Option 1: Fly into Las Vegas (LAS airport)
Travel Time to St. George is approximately two hours via car and you can tack on some time in Las Vegas—check out my other posts on LV highlights on & off the strip. No car? No problem! Hop on the St. George Shuttle and their drivers will pick you up right at the airport on Level Zero (ground floor) and take you to Utah.
Option 2: Fly into St. George Regional Airport (SGU)
You might trade a direct flight for less time on the road and fly directly to St. George Airport. Travel with ease with plenty of options once there: RideShare, rental cars & even Turo.
Pro tip: When looking at flight options, I highly recommend skyscanner.com For the best booking success.
Where to Stay
Like most cities these days, St. George has a number of hotels & Airbnb options (check out Ivins/Santa Clara for the views & tranquility). We like The Marriott Courtyard for a deal, The Advenire for a chic, central spot downtown & Inn On The Cliff for the view (plus Cliffside restaurant has phenomenal eats) . Note: If Zion is your focus, book a stay in Springdale, with lodging nestled right at the park’s doorstep and even camping in the park.
What to See
Snow Canyon State Park - one of the most underrated parks in the area. Snow Canyon is in Ivins City (10 minutes from St. George). Often overlooked, this gem rivals the big parks with lava flows, sandstone cliffs, and quiet hiking trails.
Zion National Park - Perhaps the most popular of parks in SWU and most definitely a must-see. 40-min drive from St. George. Depending on your level of interest, you can do Zion in a day. Drive around the park and hike the Canyon Overlook Trail. If you really want to explore the park, at least two days is preferable. This will give you time to use their shuttle service which has nine stops and goes into parts of the park not accessible by car. Our favourite hike is The Narrows where you walk through the Virgin River (water levels fluctuate, plan your visit accordingly). Hot tip: rent e-bikes to ride around and hike (bicycles are allowed in the park where the shuttle goes).
Bryce Canyon National Park - 2.5 hr scenic drive to get there. My personal favourite national park because of how understated it first appears, and how vast and fabulous it actually is. The hoodoos at sunrise are otherworldly. Hike the Navajo Loop trail to get a full experience in an hour. You can do it in a day, but we like to stay in town at Ruby's. Bryce Canyon also has a seasonal lodge that is often sold out, be sure to book in advance and check the weather. Bryce in particular has a micro climate and is significantly colder than St. George.
All three parks offer camping options if you’re feeling adventurous. Definitely check the weather & availability before your trip!
Desert Garden Park & Pioneer Park - Beautiful red rocks, just off the parkway offering stunning views of Downtown St. George and a native desert garden with interactive exhibits for all ages. A great place to stop in at for a short hike and have a picnic or take some memorable photos in the red rock setting.
Kayenta Arts Village - a serene, desert-planned community featuring local art shops, a labyrinth and earthy vibes. Don't miss Xetava cafe built around red rocks. The views alone make for a beautiful drive out to Kayenta.
Where to Eat
The Painted Pony - A fine dining favourite with a seasonal menu that will impress for lunch or dinner. A popular spot, we recommend securing a reservation ahead of time. Located in the heart of Downtown St. George. Skip downstairs for cocktails at Spiritual Parlour.
Farmstead Bakery - Perfect for sandwiches, pizza, and irresistible baked goods. Stop in for a morning or afternoon bite or seasonal pastry. Closed on Tuesdays.
Harmon’s Grocery - The holy grail of grocery stores. It's a little bit like an Albertson's/Publix/Tesco and a little bit like a Whole Foods. But better. A Utah chain, the employees are friendly, the food is fresh, the Harmon's food program is elite (hello housemade Italian gelato). The go to for groceries when in the area.
Feel Love Coffee - Trendy, great coffee in a spacious downtown spot on the square (same square as Painted Pony), plus check out their south-side location for coffee + a hot yoga at Be Hot.
Xetava Gardens Cafe - Desert vibes, for a coffee & a full breakfast/lunch in Kayenta Village.
Wellness & Relaxation
Part of my love for the desert is the spiritual power I feel when among the red rock. There's a calm presence, I slow down, I breathe. We've shared our favourite spots to eat, now here's where to go for wellness & relaxation, for no trip is complete without some self care.
Erth Spa - Recharge with cold plunges, saunas, massages, and other wellness treatments.
Melted Massage - An affordable option for a relaxing, quality massage.
Whether you’re flying into the buzz of Vegas or landing in laid-back St. George, Southwestern Utah is a treasure trove of natural beauty, relaxing retreats, and memorable eats. From the underrated trails of Snow Canyon to the timeless magic of Bryce and Zion, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring moments.
Pack your hiking boots, bring your sense of adventure, and let SWU show you why it’s a destination worth discovering.
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