For many guests visiting Southern Utah resorts, hiking and exploring the region’s incredible national and state parks is at the top of their to-do list. But while scaling Angel’s Landing or exploring the Water Canyon Trail are great ways to spend your time, there’s much more to see and do in Southern Utah during your stay.
When you stay at Water Canyon Resort in Hildale, Utah, you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle of St. George and Springdale, while remaining close enough for quick and easy day trips. This makes it easy to mix exploring and relaxation during your stay.
From mountain biking in Gooseberry Mesa to off-roading in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, keep reading to learn 6 ways to explore during your stay at a Southern Utah resort that aren’t hiking.
1. Mountain Biking
While many visitors come for the hiking, mountain biking enthusiasts from around the world flock to Southern Utah for a different kind of trail. The region’s rocky landscapes and variety of terrain make it a destination for mountain biking trails. While many are challenging courses for experienced bikers, there are plenty of beginner-friendly trails, too. If you don’t want to travel with your gear, you can even rent a bike and safety equipment from local outfitters.
One of the most popular places in Southern Utah for mountain biking is Gooseberry Mesa. Located just 20 minutes from our Utah resort, Gooseberry Mesa features a network of trails open to mountain bikers. The looping trail system allows riders to choose from a variety of course options to customize the difficulty level of their ride.
2. Skiing, Snowboarding, and Tubing
When most people think about Southern Utah, they picture a desert. And for the millions of visitors who come to the region in the summer, this is exactly what they experience during their trip. But visit during the winter months, and you can experience a whole different side of Southern Utah.
Just under two hours from Water Canyon Resort is Brian Head Ski Resort. This mountain resort features a mountain biking park during the warmer months. But by late fall, it transforms into a winter wonderland. Here, you can hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even snowmobile tours. This is a great way to enjoy some time on the slopes without having to travel to the busier ski towns in Northern Utah! You can enjoy a day full of shredding snow, then return to your private cabin for an evening of rest and recuperation!
3. A Winery Tour
After a couple of long days of hiking or mountain biking, you may find yourself looking for a more relaxing way to spend your time. While a rest day at your Utah resort may be in order if you still want to get out and see something new, why not plan a winery tour? You won’t have to go far—the new Water Canyon Winery is just a short walk away!
Wander our beautiful vineyards, learn about the organic wine-making process, and even sample some of our delicious wines. This is a great way to see a different side of the region, as well as to take a break from the many outdoor activities you likely have on your itinerary.
4. Off-Roading
When the summer crowds of tourists descend on Zion National Park each summer, the locals head to some of the region’s best-kept secrets; its state parks. A number of state parks are scattered across Southern Utah, and each offers its own unique features.
Several of the parks, including nearby Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, offer a heart-pounding way to see their stunning landscapes—off-roading. Rent a UTV or ATV, join a tour, or bring your own gear to explore the more than 2,000 acres of designated off-roading space.
5. A Scenic Drive
Another great way to spend a day or even just an afternoon that won’t leave you drenched in sweat is to take a scenic drive.
Head South out of Hildale on Highway 389. You won’t be far from town when incredible desert views take over. If you have a day to spend exploring, continue on to 89A towards Page, Arizona, where you can visit Vermilion Cliffs National Monument or see the famous Horseshoe Bend. You can also head north and take the drive through Zion’s Upper Canyon, which remains open to vehicle traffic even when the Lower Canyon closes. Or, go a bit further and take a day trip to Bryce Canyon, an often overlooked but equally stunning national park.
6. Canyoneering
Want to see a side of Southern Utah few visitors get to see? Consider booking a canyoneering tour.
Canyoneering is the sport of exploring slot canyons through a mix of rappelling, hiking, and climbing. Utah is said to be home to the largest collection of slot canyons in the world, with many of the most famous canyons located in Southern Utah.
Canyoneering is challenging and isn’t something you should attempt without experience and the right gear. But if you’re new to the sport, you can book a guided excursion with a local company.
Want to experience a slot canyon without rappelling? Antelope Canyon in Page, Utah is one of the most beautiful, and the most popular, slot canyons to explore. With sweeping red-orange walls, this incredible canyon is also one of the easiest to access. Guided tours take visitors to various levels of the canyon by walking and climbing a series of ladders between each level.
What to Do When You Stay at Southern Utah Resorts
A visit to Southern Utah resorts wouldn’t be complete without a hike or two. But hiking is far from the only way to experience the region’s incredible landscapes. From off-road adventures to mountain biking to quiet, scenic drives, there’s something for everyone.
Before you can start planning your itinerary, you first need to book your Utah resort. Water Canyon Resort’s location in Hildale means staying in the heart of the action. Whether you want to day trip to Zion or take a scenic drive through northern Arizona, our modern cabins make the perfect basecamp for your adventure. Book your stay today and start planning your own Southern Utah adventure!