One of the best things about staying in hotels near Zion National Park is of course enjoying easy access to the park. But Zion is far from the only place to explore during your stay at Zion Wildflower Resort.
When it comes to breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventure, Utah, and Southern Utah in particular, never fails to deliver. From majestic national parks to hidden gems like the many state parks, there is no shortage of stunning landscapes just waiting for you to explore.
One of those hidden gems is Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. This hidden paradise is located just half an hour from Zion Wildflower, making it the perfect spot for a day trip or even just an afternoon adventure. With striking red rock formations, picturesque canyons, and diverse wildlife, Red Cliffs is a destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Keep reading to learn how to plan the perfect day trip during your stay.
Getting to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is located on the edge of St. George, just a short drive from Springdale resorts. Because of its location, Red Cliffs can make for a great side trip during a day in St. George. Do some shopping, dine in one of the many restaurants, or enjoy one of the city’s other attractions. The St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site, for instance, is sure to be a hit, especially if you have any dinosaur enthusiasts in the family.
Visiting Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area covers more than 44,000 acres on the edge of St. George. Much of the park is rugged desert terrain. The red sandstone cliffs and expansive landscapes are a haven for hikers, climbers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and more.
Hiking is a popular way to explore the conservation area. Red Cliffs has an extensive trail system that offers hikes for every experience level. One of the most popular trails is Red Reef Trail. This six-mile round-trip trail takes you through a scenic expanse of desert landscape. You’ll pass ancient petroglyphs and end the hike at a refreshing natural waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, and if you’re up for the distance, a great hike for many different ages and abilities.
For those looking for a shorter hike, the Cottonwood Canyon Trail is a great choice. At two miles roundtrip, it’s easier than Red Reef Trail. It winds through a canyon dotted with cottonwood trees offering shade and a chance of scenery. The trail ends in a natural amphitheater called Cottonwood Cove. This is a great spot for a picnic or to take some pictures.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Turtle Wall Trail offers a more challenging hike. While it’s only four miles, this trail traverses some steep switchbacks as you climb the canyon. At the peak, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of much of the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.
Rock Climbing, Wildlife Spotting, and More
There’s much more to do in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area than hiking. If you want to do some rock climbing during your stay in hotels near Zion National Park, Red Cliffs is a great spot to do so. The area boasts numerous climbing routes for climbers of all skill levels, from bouldering to traditional lead climbing. The unique sandstone cliffs offer both a challenge and some incredible views during your adventure.
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is known for being home to a diverse array of wildlife. It’s a habitat for several endangered species, including the Mojave Desert Tortoise. While spotting a tortoise is rare, other animals, like mule deer are far more common.
Planning a Day Trip During Your Stay in Hotels Near Zion National Park
When you’re planning your under canvas Zion National Park adventure, you’ll no doubt want to spend plenty of time in the park. But there are also tons of amazing day trips to enjoy during your stay in hotels near Zion National Park.
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is located just a short drive from Zion Wildflower Resort. With hiking, rock climbing, incredible views, and plenty of wildlife, it’s a destination the whole family will love. It’s close enough to visit for a few hours, and still have time to get back to the resort and enjoy some of our many amenities.
Ready to start planning your next stay at Springdale resorts? Right now is a great time to book your stay at Zion Wildflower Resort. When you book a stay of two or more nights before July 31, you’ll enjoy a 20 percent discount on your stay. Book today to take advantage of this deal.
