Discovering the Majestic Beauty: Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, is located outside of idyllic St. George, Utah and is a geologically diverse natural wonderland. With its incredible red sandstone cliffs, vast canyons, and picturesque desert landscapes, this park offers an immersive experience that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The area is not only home to many unique rock formations, but is also the stronghold of rare and threatened species, such as the desert tortoise. Hiking through the rugged trails visitors will lay their eyes on some of the most beautiful landscapes including colorful cliffs, vibrant wildflowers, dinosaur tracks and ancient petroglyphs. The peaceful environment of Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers a unique experience, where one can seek the solitude of nature and appreciate the remarkable wonders of the Southern Utah.
Entrance Fees
At the Red Cliffs Nation Conservation Area, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee to support the preservation and maintenance of this pristine park. The entrance fees are reasonable at 5$ USD and give visitors access to a wide array of trails featuring stunning geological formations, historical archaeological sites, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails.
Exploratory Glory YouTube Channel
Orson B. Adams House
The Orson B. Adams House, located within the borders of the park, is an interesting piece of history that perfectly blends into the natural landscape with its wonderful stone construction. Designed by renowned architect Orson B. Adams in 1863, this house is a true momento to his vision and appreciation for nature. The house boasts large windows that frame picture-perfect views of the vast desert and breathtaking cliffs.
Map of Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Hiking Trails
Red Reef Trail: Length 3.5 km - 51 minutes
Elephant Arch Trail: Length 6.1 km - 1 hour 26 minutes
Owen’s Loop Trail: Length: 4.3 km - 1 hour 12 minutes
Turtle Wall and Paradise Rim Loop: 6.1 km - 1 hour 32 minutes
Chuckwalla Trail: 2.7 km - 40 minutes
Paradise Canyon: 8.7 km - 2 hours 26 minutes
Babylon Arch Trail: 2.6 km - 48 minutes
Dino Cliffs Trail: 4.8 km - 1 hour - 12 minutes
Church Rocks and Grapvine Trail: 8.5 km 2 hours 5 minutes
For another truly sensational hiking experience in Southern Utah, be sure to check out Ashdown Gorge outside of Cedar City
Dinosaur Tracks
The Red Cliffs are a treasure trove for paleontologists and nature enthusiasts alike. This remarkable landscape boats a trove of ancient history with its numerous dinosaur tracks and archaeological sites. These fossilized footprints offer a very rare glimpse into the lives of these extinct lizards roamed these lands millions of years ago. As hikers traverse the rugged landscape, they can follow in the footsteps of these prehistoric beasts, staring in wonder at the tracks preserved nearly perfectly in the red stone. The Dinosaur Cliffs Trail, in particular, reveals an interesting display of dinosaur tracks, each imprint an excellent reminder of the creatures that once inhabitated these dramatic lands.
Mohave Desert Tortoise
The Mojave Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is a unique reptile that can be found wandering the desert of the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. This slow-moving reptile is well adapted to the arid conditions of the harsh Mojave Desert. These amazing tortoises possess a unique ability to dig burrows, helping them regulate body temperature and escape from the predators of the area. One of the most fascinating traits of these tortoises is how long they can live, and in the right conditions some individuals can live up to 80 years. Considered a threatened species, conservation efforts focus on protecting the reptile’s habitat and limiting predatory threats to ensure the survival of this iconic desert dweller.
Camping
The park offers an excellent camping experience for adventure-lovers. As the sun sets across the rugged terrain, campers can revel in the mesmerizing ambiance of the desert surrounding them. The sprawling red cliffs, and vibrant desert flora, create a stunning background as campers gather around the fire and gaze up at the star-studded night sky.
There are 11 well-maintained campsites, with each featuring a convenient shade shelter, except for campsite 4. Picnic tables and grills are also part of each site and ensure campers can cook delicious meals. Accessible vault toilets are conveniently located between sites 5 and 7. Pets are welcome in the park but must remain on a leash and under control at all times.
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area Photos
More Utah Hiking Trails
