Worth the Drive
Venture beyond St. George to discover some of the Southwest’s most remarkable landscapes. These destinations are ideal for half-day or full-day adventures and are well worth the extra travel time. Drive times, weather conditions, park access and seasonal closures may vary, so please check current conditions before departing.
Zion National Park
Experience towering sandstone cliffs, breathtaking canyon views and some of the Southwest’s most celebrated hiking trails. Scenic overlooks and the park shuttle make Zion rewarding for both adventurous hikers and casual sightseers.
Location: Springdale, Utah
Best for: Hiking, scenic views, photography and outdoor adventure
Plan for: A half-day or full-day trip
Guest tip: Parking fills quickly, especially during peak season. When the Zion Canyon shuttle is operating, personal vehicles are not permitted on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Check current shuttle schedules, weather and trail conditions before departing.
The park is open year-round. No reservation is required to enter Zion or ride the shuttle, although entrance fees and permits for certain hikes may apply.
Sand Hollow State Park
Enjoy warm blue water surrounded by striking red sandstone scenery. Sand Hollow offers boating, swimming, fishing, paddling and sandy beaches, along with access to nearby off-highway vehicle recreation.
Location: Hurricane, Utah
Best for: Swimming, boating, fishing, paddling and off-road recreation
Plan for: A half-day or full-day trip
Guest tip: Bring water, sun protection and appropriate footwear, as summer temperatures can be extreme. Check current water conditions and advisories before swimming. Watercraft and recreational equipment rentals are available through independent operators and may require advance reservations.
The park is open year-round, although operating hours vary seasonally. An entrance fee is required.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Discover the park’s famous hoodoos, sweeping amphitheater views and high-elevation trails. Scenic overlooks along the rim make Bryce Canyon rewarding even for guests who prefer minimal hiking.
Location: Bryce Canyon City, Utah
Best for: Scenic overlooks, hiking and photography
Plan for: A full-day trip
Guest tip: Bryce Canyon is considerably cooler than St. George, and snow or icy conditions are possible outside the summer months. Check current road, weather and trail conditions before departing.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Experience a vast natural amphitheater filled with colorful rock formations, high-elevation forests and sweeping overlooks. During summer, the area is also known for its wildflowers, hiking trails and cooler temperatures.
Location: Near Brian Head, Utah
Best for: Scenic overlooks, hiking, wildflowers and photography
Plan for: A half-day or full-day trip
Guest tip: Cedar Breaks sits above 10,000 feet and can be significantly cooler than St. George. The main scenic road typically closes during the winter because of snow, so check current conditions before departing.
The park remains open year-round, but vehicle access and available services vary considerably by season. Current conditions
Valley of Fire State Park
Explore brilliant red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs and dramatic desert scenery at Nevada’s oldest state park. Scenic roads and easily accessible viewpoints make the park enjoyable even without extensive hiking.
Location: Overton, Nevada
Best for: Scenic drives, petroglyphs, hiking and photography
Plan for: A full-day trip
Guest tip: Temperatures can become dangerously hot, and certain trails may close seasonally. Bring plenty of water and check current park conditions before visiting.