Archive for the ‘Camping’ Category
Thursday, June 17th, 2010
 A view of Kolob Reservoir in summer Kolob Terrace Road begins in the small town of Virgin, Utah about 15 miles west of Zion National Park’s south entrance. This road offers access to several trailheads and overlooks, including the Left Fork of North Creek, The Subway slot canyon, West Rim Trail, Lava Point Overlook, and Kolob Reservoir. From the town of Virgin the road ascends to a plateau and runs for about 25 miles through diverse and dramatic backcountry scenery, disecting Zion National Park between Zion Canyon and its lesser-explored sister, Kolob Canyon. The name “Kolob” comes from Mormon (LDS) scripture, indicating a star near Heaven. Climbing Kolob Terrace Road to nearly 8,000 feet above sea level it’s easy to see this area comes close to Heaven, in both elevation and beauty.
 A horse grazes in tall grass fields on the Kolob Terrace near Zion National Park How to get there: Kolob Terrace Road offers instant access to wilderness and solitude; you won’t find Zion’s crowds here. Look closely for a small sign indicating Kolob at the intersection of Highway 9 in Virgin. The paved road starts out lined with fertile pastures, then climbs steeply into the red cliffs, winding in and out of the park through mountainous alpine forest, rugged canyonland, and the open expanse of the Lower Kolob Plateau. Inside the park you’ll pass the Firepit Knoll cinder cone, cross over Pine Spring Wash, and pass the West Rim trailhead, before reaching one of the park’s literal and figurative high points: Lava Point Overlook. Sitting at 7,890 feet, Lava Point Overlook is the one of the higher peaks in Zion National Park and offers a stunning panoramic view. Lava Point Road also offers access to the remote Blue Springs Reservoir and the Wildcat Trailhead, where the hike through The Subway begins (permit required).
About five miles from Lava Point Road, pristine Kolob Reservoir lies at 8,8118 feet just outside the park boundary. A few ranches and log cabins dot the landscape on the way to the well-stocked reservoir but if you’re seeking solitude, good trout fishing, and primitive camping, this is the place. The final stretch of road around the reservoir and beyond is unpaved. Most people choose to turn around and go back the way they came.
In winter the upper section of this road can be closed with snow but the lower section is still worth the drive. Check road conditions with the ranger station prior to heading out during winter months.
Tags: Kolob, kolob canyons, kolob reservoir, kolob terrace, subway slot canyon, utah, virgin utah, west rim trail, zion, Zion National Park, zion park, zion utah Posted in Adventure, Camping, Canyoneering / Climbing, Geography, Hiking, Lakes / Reservoirs, Scenic Drives, Zion National Park, activities, fishing
Thursday, June 17th, 2010
 Utah's Highway 18 from St. George to Enterprise Highway 18 (SR-18) encompasses a 40-mile stretch between St. George and Enterprise. As part of the Legacy Loop Highway, the paved scenic byway winds past rugged red canyons and dramatic turns of history as it follows along a section of the historic Old Spanish Trail trade route.
Highway 18 begins in St. George, just south of I-15, and heads north past the Ledges Golf Club and through the black lava-capped sandstone cliffs of Snow Canyon State Park. The road continues northwest through Wide Canyon, and past the imposing Veyo Volcano cinder pit. A four-mile hike leads to the summit of this geologic relic (5,223-feet above sea level) , where panoramic views of Snow Canyon and the surrounding mountains and valleys await. Continue the short drive north to the quiet, bucolic community of Veyo (pop. 724), an acronym for “virtue, enterprise, youth, and order” coined by the girls of a local Mormon youth group “Beehive girls” in the early 1900s.
 Diamond Valley area volcanic cinder cone near Snow Canyon State Park North of Veyo, Highway 18 winds for another 21 miles through the hills and vales of the Dixie National Forest. The remote community of Central is the gateway to Pine Valley town, reservoir, and recreation area; exit Highway 18 onto Forest Highway 35 and head east for about ten miles. At an elevation of 6,500 feet Pine Valley is known for its alpine forest, cool summer temperatures, camping, hiking, and horseback riding. Continuing north on Highway 18, you’ll pass the site of the controversial Mountain Meadows Massacre of 1857. The road then turns northeast for the final stretch to Enterprise (pop. 1285), a small upper valley town with access to camping, hunting, and rainbow trout fishing in nearby Upper and Lower Enterprise Reservoirs.
Click on the pictures to see a larger view.
Tags: dixie national forest, enterprise reservoir, enterprise utah, highway 18, ledges golf club, mountain meadows, pine valley utah, saint george, Snow Canyon, St. George, utah, veyo utah, volcano Posted in Camping, Cities - Towns, Fish, Geography, Geology, Lakes / Reservoirs, Scenic Drives, Snow Canyon, St. George Utah, State Parks, activities, fishing
Monday, May 10th, 2010
There’s nothing quite like outdoor adventure experiences in the St. George and Zion National Park area. Bringing the right equipment can make a day of mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, camping or any type of outdoor adventure, an extremely enjoyable experience. Without it, your experience around St. George or Zion may be less than you expect. Below we have created a list of a few “must have” items for being prepared to enjoy the great outdoors. Remember that even if you’re in familiar territory, challenges can still arise.
 Hiking, Climbing, Biking, Rappelling, in St. George and Zion National Park Always carry rain or cool weather gear, even in the summer, when flash rains or hail storms can change temperatures quickly. Here’s a list of a few key items to have close at hand:
Compass
First Aid Kit
Flashlight/Batteries
Insect Repellant
Map
Pocket Knife
Repair equipment (per activity)
Snacks/Food
Sunscreen / Hat
Sturdy Shoes
Toilet Paper
Water
Waterproof matches
Whistle
In addition to these items you may need repair resources for the vehicle or equipment you are using. Here’s a list of local shops that supply much of what you may need.
Springdale, Utah:
* Biking Zion (1458 Zion Park Boulevard) Bicycle rentals, equipment and repairs
* Zion Adventure Company (36 Lion Boulevard) - Equipment rentals, guides, climbing, camping, hiking and canyoneering gear.
* Zion Cycles (868 Zion Park Boulevard) - Bicycles, parts, service and rentals.
* Zion Rock and Mountain Guides (1458 Zion Park Boulevard) - Equipment rentals, guides, climbing, camping, hiking and canyoneering gear.
Hurricane, Utah:
* Over the Edge Sports (76 E 100 S) - Bicycles, parts, service and rentals.
St George, Utah:
* Bicycles Unlimited (90 S 100 E) - Bicycles, parts, service and rentals.
* Big 5 Sporting Goods(245 Red Cliffs Drive) - Hunting, fishing, camping, outerwear, footwear.
* Desert Cyclery (1091 N Bluff Street) - Bicycles, parts, service and rentals.
* Desert Rat (160 N 500 East) - Climbing, camping, hiking and canyoneering gear.
* Dixie Gun and Fish (1062 E Tabernacle)- Hunting and fishing supplies
* Hurst Ace Hardware (160 N Bluff Street)- Hunting, fishing and camping supplies
* Red Rock Bicycles (100S Bluff Street) - Bicycles, parts, service and rentals.
* Sportsman’s Warehouse (2957 E 850 N) - Hunting, fishing, camping, outerwear, footwear.
* Sunset Cycles (491 N Bluff) - Bicycles, parts, service and rentals.
Tags: biking gear, equipment, hiking gear, outdoor gear, St. George Utah, supplies, zion, Zion National Park Posted in Adventure, Biking, Camping, Hiking, St. George Utah, Zion National Park, activities
Friday, February 19th, 2010
 Views of the Virgin River in Zion and and a Virgin River Overlook The Virgin River is the water system that is responsible for carving some of the main canyons in Zion National Park. This river drainage contains some of the most dramatic landscapes in the America. Located in the southwest corner of Utah, the Virgin River provides valuable water resources and recreation opportunities for over 120,000 local residents. The Virgin River and its contributors are divided into three main drainages: the North Fork, the East Fork, and the Santa Clara River.
 Viewers look down into the north fork of the Virgin River basin. North Fork - Virgin River: The North Fork of the Virgin River begins at Navajo Lake and Kolob Reservoir and receives contributions from many drainage areas along the southwest Markagunt Plateau. The North Fork enters Zion National Park, forming the famous Zion Narrows which is popular for hiking. The East and North forks of the Virgin River come together outside of Zion National park, south of the town of Springdale. Once the North and East Forks of the Virgin meet the river continues on in a southwestern direction running through the towns of Rockville, Virgin, LaVerkin, and Hurricane. Along its path towards St. George are Sand Hollow and Quail Creek Reservoirs. These state parks are beautiful places for boating, fishing, and swimming.
 Shadows show the course of the east fork of the Virgin River. East Fork - Virgin River: The headwaters of the East Fork originate in the southeast Markagunt Plateau near the junction of US Highway 89 and State Highway 14. After flowing through the towns of Glendale, Orderville and Mt. Carmel Junction the river turns west entering Parunaweap Canyon and Zion National Park. Within Parunaweap Canyon adventurous hikers and kayakers navigate “The Barracks” section, a remote narrow canyon which in places is less than 15 feet wide and 500 feet deep.
Santa Clara River Drainage: The Santa Clara River originates in the Pine Valley Mountains, flows towards the town of Santa Clara, and on south to St. George, meeting up with the Virgin River next to I-15 at about mile marker five. The Santa Clara River runs through Gunlock State Park and Reservoir a popular spot for fishing, camping, swimming and boating. The river generally runs only a few inches deep, ideal for skim boarding.
Virgin River Gorge: After the Santa Clara River joins the Virgin River the river then cuts through the rising Beaver Dam Mountains to create a spectacular Gorge reminiscent of the Grand Canyon with eroded, stepped cliffs and terraces of sandstone and limestone. The Virgin River Gorge is a spectacular place to enjoy many different activities including camping, hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking.
In the river itself, the threatened Woundfin minnow and Virgin River Spinedace struggles to survive. Desert bighorn sheep were historically present on the Arizona Strip. By the early 1900s desert bighorn were believed to be extirpated from the Virgin and Beaver Dam Mountains and Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs areas. Small remnant populations were still extant in the Grand Wash Cliffs and Kanab Creek. Since the late 1970’s, Arizona Game and Fish Department and the BLM have been cooperatively working to re-introduce desert bighorn sheep to the Arizona Strip. Visitors might also spot an antelope, a mountain lion, wild turkey, peregrine falcon, or desert tortoise.
About 20 miles south of St. George, along I-15, is Cedar Pocket Campground. This recreation area with 75 camp and picnic sites is open year-round and is a gateway to one of the most remote areas of the United States.
Near the lower end of the gorge is some of the most challenging rock climbing in the United States. Climbers worldwide come to climb the legendary limestone in this narrow gorge. This area isn’t for the timid as routes average 5.12d.
Virgin River to Lake Mead: After leaving the Virgin River the river enters the Mojave Desert and flows past the towns of Beaver Dam and Littlefield, Arizona and then enters southern Nevada near the town of Mesquite. The river empties into the Colorado River at Lake Mead, approximately 40 miles east of Las Vegas.
Posted in Adventure, Boating, Camping, Canyoneering / Climbing, Geography, Geology, Hiking, Lakes / Reservoirs, State Parks, Water Sports, Zion National Park, activities, fishing, virgin river, wildlife
Friday, February 5th, 2010
Ever since the new freeway was opened through the Virgin River Gorge, travelers simply don’t travel very much to Las Vegas via old highway 91. This state road, that goes west through the quaint city of Santa Clara, comes to a fork near the base of Utah hill. Go left at the fork, and you would continue toward Las Vegas, turn right and you will go north to Gunlock State Park. The reservoir, tucked away about 15 miles northwest of St. George, is a hidden secret.
 Water Skiing on Gunlock State Park Gunlock State Park is a scenic 600-acre park is a great place for boating, swimming and for other water sport enthusiasts to enjoy some of the warmest water temperatures in Utah. The reservoir, built in 1970 and fed by the Santa Clara River, also provides excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. The banks of the reservoir are lined with pine and juniper trees, with a backdrop of red and pink Navajo sandstone cliffs to the west and ancient lava beds to the east. With heavy spring snow-melt and rains, you may find water flowing over the southwest corner of the reservoir and then cascading across the red rock formations below. This is quite a spectacular site and the best opportunities to see this are usually between March and April. It really depends on the weather conditions. Also found in this area are a wide array of ancient Native American writings. Click here to read more.
 The town of Gunlock - Just 1 mile north of the Gunlock State Park The park is named for “Gunlock Will” (William Haynes Hamblin), a Mormon pioneer and expert marksman who settled in the area in the mid-1800s. The road to the park was once known as the Old Spanish Trail and was traversed from New Mexico to California by adventurers in search of gold.
Southern Utah’s sunny, dry climate allows the park to remain open year-round, although spring and fall entertain the most visitors. There is a day-use fee ($5.00 in 2010) for this state park, which includes the boat launch and limited facilities, including a covered pavilion and vault toilets. Primitive camping is available ($10 per night in 2010).
Tags: Boating, Camping, cliff jumping, fishing, gunlock, gunlock state park, gunlock utah, kayaking, State Park, State Parks, utah state park, utah state parks, wake boarding, water skiing Posted in ATV/4x4, Adventure, Boating, Camping, Cities - Towns, Hiking, Lakes / Reservoirs, Scenic Drives
Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
 Sand Hollow State Park - Often referred to as Little Lake Powell Sand Hollow State Park is often referred to as little Lake Powell because of its red-rock formations and sand dunes that rise from the waters edge. Just 15 miles from St. George and just five miles from downtown Hurricane, Sand Hollow State Park beckons water sports and off-road enthusiasts with a 20,000-acre playground of sand dunes, and sparkling water. Recreational opportunities range from boating and fishing in Sand Hollow Reservoir to off-roading in the dunes surrounding the neighboring Sand Mountain. The newest of Utah’s state parks has quickly become one of its most popular.
 Swimmer at Sand Hollow State Park The summer-time warm waters of Sand Hollow reservoir make it a favorite destination for boaters, kayakers, swimmers, and also fisherman who are looking for the catch of the day. The reservoir is well-stocked with bluegill and bass. Water sports fans are also lured by the occasional fishing tournament, boat show, or wakeboard competition.
ATV enthusiasts consider the 6,000 acres of red sand dunes some of the most enjoyable off-road terrain around. Sand Hollow also offers opportunities for biking, hiking and equestrian adventures. Overnight camping with hook-ups is available at the Westside campground and at the Sand Pit campground.
The gates of Sand Hollow State Park are open year-round and daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. In 2010 the day-use entrance fee is $10.00 which includes the boat launch and OHV access. Annual state park passes ($75) can also be used at Sand Hollow.
 Boating at sand Hollow State Park. Hurricane Sand Dunes in background. Directions: Take I-15 to Exit 16 and travel east on Highway 9 for four miles. Turn right on Turf Sod Road and travel one mile. Turn left onto the Sand Hollow access road (two miles), then turn left at the park entrance.
Nearby activties: Sand Hollow Golf Course is just across the street from the entrance to the state park. Check out more details on this course by clicking here.
Tags: bass, bass fishing, bluegill, bluegill fishing, boaters, Boating, fishing, kayak, sand hollow, Sand Hollow State Park, State Park, swimmers, swimming, utah state park, water, Water Sports Posted in ATV/4x4, Adventure, Boating, Camping, Cities - Towns, Geography, Geology, Hiking, Lakes / Reservoirs, Sports, St. George Utah, State Parks, Water Sports
Wednesday, January 20th, 2010
One of the great things about the St. George area is that you have multiple water sports opportunities, all within minutes of downtown. Quail Lake State Park is one of those places.
 Wakeboarding at Quail Creek State Park Located just 12 miles from St. George, the warm southern climate at Quail Creek State Park’s lends itself to year-round water activities. The park offers an excellent environment for boating, kayaking, swimming, sunbathing, camping, and fishing.
 Hitting the wake on a three person tube at Quail Creek State Park The reservoir is partially fed by water diverted from the Virgin River and is well-stocked with rainbow trout, crappie, largemouth bass, bullhead catfish, and bluegill.
Quail Creek operates on a 40-boat limit on the reservoir, with odd/even (boat registration number) restrictions on weekends and holidays from May through September. If you don’t have your own watercraft, you can easily rent boats and jet-skis in St. George or Hurricane.
There is a 23-site campground that overlooks the reservoir. Each site can accommodate one large or two small tents at a present rate of $13 per night. Additional amenities at Quail Creek State Park include two covered group-use pavilions (first come, first served basis), along with drinking water, and modern restrooms. No showers are available but the lake is filled with good clean water.
 A view over Quail Creek State Park toward Zion National Park Quail Creek State Park is open year-round and offers daily access from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the summer season and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in winter months. There is an $8 day-use fee that includes use of the boat ramps. An annual State Park Pass is currently $75 and these are sold and accepted at the park.
To reach Quail Creek State Park, you will take I-15 to Exit 16 and travel east for three miles on State Road 9. Follow the signs and turn left (north) onto SR-318 and follow along the western contour of the reservoir to the entrance of the park.
Quail Creek State Park is just north of Sand Hollow State Park.
Tags: bass, bluegill, Boating, campground, Camping, fishing, jet ski, kayaking, quail creek, quail creek state park, quail lake, rainbow trout, State Park, utah state park, wakeboarding, Water Sports, watercraft, waterskiing Posted in Adventure, Boating, Camping, Cities - Towns, Lakes / Reservoirs, Seasons, St. George Utah, State Parks, Water Sports
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