There is simply no way to do justice to the spectacular scenery in Southern Utah in one article, so I submit this article as an addendum to the prior article. This is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts – a land to re-visit over and over, a land to spend a week or more exploring, touring, absorbing the beauty of God’s creation. And Southern Utah gives you such a great variety of scenery – you have the fabulous rock formations that stretch to the sky and rock bridges that span nothing but cactus and desert, but just a little further down the road, you have the sandy beaches of Lake Powell. And all of these destinations are surrounded by national forests and majestic mountains. There truly is something for everyone in Southern Utah.
Kolob Reservoir Road is a well-kept secret for accessing Zion National Park. Kolob Road keeps you out of the crowds and gives you quick access with wonderful views of the cliffs, valleys, canyons and mountains that make up Zion National Park. The highest elevation in the Park is Lava Point, Further into the Park, Kolob Road takes you through alternating meadows and woodlands while giving you glimpses of distant canyons and mountains as well. Truly, the beauty of this trip is incomparable. And the solitude and quiet of Kolob Reservoir Road makes it all a special destination indeed.
To access Kolob Reservoir Road, in southwestern Utah, you go east on Highway 9 from I-15 Washington, Utah, just north of St. George. Travel east on Highway 9 to Virgin, Utah, and then head north on Kolob Road. It’s closed in the wintertime, so plan this trip for spring, summer or fall. And be sure to bring your camera – the scenery is magnificent. There are not a lot of amenities after leaving Virgin, so fill your tank there, pack a picnic lunch, and make this a day trip you will remember forever.
Another scenic day trip in this same area is Highway 9 through beautiful Zion Canyon. From I-15 just north of St. George, turn east on Highway 9 and follow it from La Verkin, through Virgin, Rockville and Springdale to the intersection with Highway 89. This road runs along the southern edge of Zion National Park and cuts through the southeast quadrant of the Park, taking you through Zion Canyon. This park’s spires stretch heavenward as far as the eye can see as you travel along the river, and the apple orchards in the valley are very pleasing to the senses as well. But Zion Canyon is one of the most picturesque spots in all of Utah. This canyon carved in the limestone common to this area is as varied in color as the rainbow. Truly a site to behold, a photo to be taken.
This is a well-known tourist destination, so if you can go during the week, the crowds will be lighter. But the amenities are good – good restaurants in the Park, places to buy fuel and keepsakes and overnight accommodations to fit any budget. Of course, to camp in Southern Utah is the best way to experience the desert by moonlight.
Across the state, in southeast Utah are Moab and the beautiful canyons of the Colorado River. From I-70, just west of Grand Junction, Colorado, turn south on Highway 128. This road takes you along the Colorado River and through some of the most majestic scenery to Moab. The Colorado River has cut a path through this area, and the canyon walls protrude to the sky on both sides. Of course, you are near Arches National Monument, so the rock formations of bridges and arches in this area are a photographer’s dream. This is an easy 40-mile ride with restrooms along the way, but not much else for amenities. Travel on in to Moab for meals, lodging and gas.
Another corner of this wonderful state where a few days is necessary to see enough to be satisfied, and a return trip is a must. Moab is located just south of the intersection of Highway 128 and Highway 191 on Highway 191. Much history and culture is visible in this area of Utah, but its greatest attraction is its beauty. The national parks and monuments house such magnificent sites as Devils’ Garden, Delicate Arch, Hole In The Rock and Needles Overlook. There is simply no way to see it all in just a day.
This area is known for cool nights and evenings, even in the summertime, as the desert cools after dark. Dress in layers, and bring cold-weather gear in case the temperature drops. A GPS unit might be helpful for touring in Southern Utah, as there are multiple side roads to detour onto. And a camera is a prerequisite! We invite you to come and ride across Southern Utah, but we encourage you to spend some time with us for it’s hard to leave once you get here.
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- River Expeditions, Horseback Riding, Rafting, Desert Tours and More at Moab, Utah
- River Expeditions, Horseback Riding, Rafting, Desert Tours and More at Moab, Utah
