Hildale, Utah is a small city on the border between Utah and Arizona. Located in beautiful red rock country, this tranquil destination offers guests a chance to experience the beauty of Southern Utah, away from the crowds that flock to Springdale and St. George, Utah, and Zion National Park each year.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a family vacation full of hiking and other outdoor activities, or want something a little more laid-back, the area offers something for everyone. Planning a visit to the new Water Canyon Resort this summer? Keep reading to learn 7 things to do the next time you visit Hildale, Utah resorts.
1. Hike the Water Canyon Trail
Visitors looking to enjoy an up-close look at the region’s most beautiful landscapes should plan to hike the Water Canyon Trail. This short, but the mildly challenging hike will take you through a canyon that features waterfalls and pools, as well as slot-canyon-like passages.
While not a part of a state or national park, Water Canyon Trail is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and is open to the public. Hiking from the trailhead to the upper end of the canyon is about a 1.5-mile trail, though this can be extended to 2 miles if you continue on to the edge of the mountain plateau.
The best time of year to take on this hike is late spring and fall. Earlier in the spring, heavy rainfall causes the water levels in the canyon to rise, making the trail impassable. Summer can be a good time for a hike, as long as you are well-prepared; temperatures often reach triple-digits, and shade may be scarce in the middle of the day.
2. Take a Day Trip to Zion National Park or the Grand Canyon
One of the best things about staying in Hildale, Utah resorts is the chance to get away from some of the busier cities and towns in Southern Utah, particularly during the summer months or around holiday weekends. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t still experience some of the region’s most famous landmarks.
Springdale, Utah, where the popular South Entrance to Zion National Park is located, is just an hour’s drive from Hildale. This makes it the perfect destination for a day trip. Take a ride into the Lower Canyon on the Zion Canyon Shuttle. See Angels Landing, the Watchman, and some of the park’s other famous formations. Take a walk along the Virgin River, and see the entrance to the slot canyon that The Narrows trail winds its way through.
Another great day trip to take when you stay at a Utah resort-like Water Canyon is the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This lesser-known entrance to Grand Canyon National Park may see just a fraction of the number of annual visitors that the South Entrance sees. But this doesn’t mean that the views are any less stunning. The North Entrance is just a two-hour drive from Hildale.
3. Tour a Vineyard and Enjoy a Wine Tasting
Looking for a new and unique experience to enjoy during your next visit to Southern Utah? In the Spring of 2022, visitors to Hildale will get to experience the area’s first winery and vineyard.
Water Canyon Winery is a family-owned and operated vineyard and winery that specializes in producing a variety of natural wines. Guests will be able to tour the vineyard and learn more about how the grapes go from the vine to a bottle to your glass. Enjoy a wine tasting with views of the incredible desert landscape in the distance.
Water Canyon Resort offers Southern Utah vacation rentals with easy access to the winery and vineyard.
4. Go Off-Roading in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
While many visitors to Southern Utah come to visit one of the region’s national parks, what many don’t know is that there are also a number of unique and beautiful state parks. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is one must-see. This stunning park features sand dunes that visitors can explore. This is also a great place to enjoy a more fast-paced activity; off-roading.
Rent an ATV or UTV, or join a tour, and race across the dunes for a heart-pounding experience you won’t soon forget! Over 90 percent of the dunes are available for off-roading, so there’s plenty to explore during your visit.
5. Experience a Yoga Retreat
Another unique experience coming soon to your favorite Utah resort is yoga retreats. Tranquil Water Canyon Resort is the perfect destination for getting your zen on. Follow experienced instructors as they guide you through daily yoga practices, alongside a variety of other activities designed to help you relax and detox from the demands of your hectic life back home.
Check back soon to learn more about our yoga retreats.
6. Take a Horseback Ride Through the Desert
If zipping across sand dunes on an off-road vehicle at high speeds isn’t for you, or you want to add some variety to your trip, a horseback ride through the desert might be just the ticket. Guided horseback rides are available both for experienced riders and first-timers. Take a leisurely ride along the trails as you take in the beautiful landscapes from an entirely new angle.
7. Go Mountain Biking at Gooseberry Mesa
This is one activity that’s best enjoyed by those with some experience. But if you already love mountain biking, you’ll definitely want to make time to visit Gooseberry Mesa during your next trip.
This is a bucket-list destination for mountain biking enthusiasts from around the world. You’ll experience stunning desert vistas as you zip along Slickrock singletrack trails. There are several trails in the system, with a variety of difficulty levels for riders at every stage. There’s even a moderate Practice Trail for those who want to test their skills before taking on a more challenging route.
Planning a Visit to Hildale, Utah
If you’re ready to start planning your next visit to Water Canyon Resort, these activities may be a great addition to your trip itinerary. Whether you’re visiting with your family and looking for kid-friendly outdoor activities, want to disconnect and unwind with a yoga retreat, or are excited to experience Hildale’s first winery, there’s something for everyone at our beautiful Utah resort. Book your stay today to see for yourself!