Top 10 Things to do in Southern Utah

UPDATED: 2023

One of my favorite parts about Summer is heading on road trips. There is nothing quite like the open road, good tunes and good company! I headed down to Southern Utah this past weekend with my husband and our friend and we had a total blast. I’ve been to Southern Utah several times and even used to live in the area while my husband was going to Southern Utah University so I have compiled what I believe are the top 10 things to do in southern Utah, hope you enjoy it while you’re there!

1- Kolob Canyon

I love Kolob Canyon and it’s always a place I drive through on any Southern Utah road trip. Kolob Canyon is actually part of Zion National Park, but it’s located in a completely different area. There are a few hikes here, but the main draw here is the scenic drive and the views you can see from the car are absolutely breathtaking!

2- Sandhollow State Park

Sand Hollow is  a beautiful part of Southern Utah, about a 40 minute drive from Zion National Park. Staying in Sand Hollow Resort is nice if you are wanting a halfway point in between St. George/Snow Canyon and Springdale/Zion. Sand Hollow is best known for golf courses, amazing red rock scenery everywhere and Sand Hollow state park.

Sand Hollow State Park is a must see. The turquoise blues of the lake make an incredible contrast against the red rocks. They have water activity rentals too like kayaks, paddle boards and jet skiing. There are also incredible red sand dunes here and renting ATV’s is one of the most fun things to do at Sand Hollow! (Make sure to wear sunglasses and a bandana.)  There is also an area of Sand Hollow that is known for cliff jumping!

3- Springdale Town

The town of Springdale, the main town before Zion National park is definitely worth spending a little bit of time in.  The town has tons of quirky roadside attractions with views of Zion looming in the background. I love it! I like to stop at Zion Rock and Gem. It is a really cool gem shop about 5 minutes outside the park.

I also stopped at the Virgin Trading post which cost $1 to get in. It is a petting zoo and a miniature Western town which is really fun for the whole family! I loved it too because I love animals and the Western town made a cute backdrop for photos!

4- Hike in Zion National Park

A visit to Southern Utah isn’t complete without at least a day at Zion National Park! This is one of my favorite National parks in the whole world. I have been on about 6 different hikes there so far and there is still more to see! There are hikes for all skill levels which makes it really nice so that everyone can enjoy the park.

For a challenge: Consider Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, Observation Point and the Subway. For easier hikes, consider: Lower and Upper Emerald pools, Weeping Rock and Canyon overlook.

If you have your furry friend with you, consider the Pa’rus Trail (The only trail they are allowed on).

To Read more about hiking Angel’s Landing, check out my experience here. Read about more amazing hikes in Southern Utah here.

For those who are not interested in hiking, don’t fret. There is actually a scenic drive you can go on with views that will leave you speechless and plenty of places to stop for photo opps.

5- Gunlock Falls

One of my new favorite things to do in Southern Utah is to go to Gunlock Falls. I heard about these waterfalls for the first time about three years ago. My husband and I were camping by Gunlock Reservoir and I was looking all over for these waterfalls I had heard of. Needless to say, we never found them.

As it turns out, Gunlock Falls are actually not always there. In fact, they usually are not. Do research before you go to make sure they are actually there! This year Utah had so much snow and rain that the water from the reservoir actually spilled over and created these amazing waterfalls!

6- Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park is an incredible outdoor lover’s playground- right in the heart of St. George. You can climb all over these rocks and explore all day! There is actually a slot canyon here too (but it is very tiny so it is not for those with claustrophobia!) I love to come here at sunset and sit near Dixie Rock for a view of the whole valley and an incredible view of sunset.

This can be a really easy way to get pictures or explore red rocks right off the road! Definitely one of the best things to do in southern Utah!

7- Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon is one of my favorite places in Utah and one of the most unique places I’ve ever been. It is only an hour and a half drive from Zion National Park so the two can easily be done together. Also, one of my favorite parts is about ten minutes outside of the entrance, you go through a red rock tunnel and it’s so cool! It seriously looks like something from a movie.

8- Swimming

Going swimming or relaxing by the pool is an essential part of any Southern Utah road trip because it can get really hot during the day! There was nothing better than hanging out by the pool after a long and hot hike. I especially loved just hanging out and reading a book.

9– Babylon Arch near Leeds, Utah

This hike is truly a hidden gem while visiting St. George, Utah and you won’t find many others on the trail when you head here. This hike truly is all about the journey as well as the destination. There are so many beautiful and unique sandstone formations to see everywhere and at the end you come to Babylon Arch! You can also hike down near the Virgin River if you would like and this is a perfect setting for sunset!

10- Mystic Hot Springs

Mystic Hot Springs has become more popular over the past few years thanks to Instagram. They are hot springs in the middle of no where in Utah where you actually get to soak in bath tubs! It is quite a fun and kitschy experience that you will want to add to your Southern Utah road trip.

There you have it! 10 fun things to do in southern Utah!

Read Next:

Things to do in St George, Utah

St George Hikes | Top Nearby

Hiking Angels Landing- The Ultimate Guide

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