The best walks and hikes around St. George

The St. George area offers over 20 hiking routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a diverse range of trails, from easy strolls through red rock landscapes to more challenging ascents.

Yes, St. George has many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. Out of the over 20 routes, 16 are rated as easy. These often feature gentle terrain and minimal elevation gain, allowing everyone to enjoy the unique desert scenery. For example, the Mississippi River Greenway from Jefferson Barracks County Park is an easy path following a greenway.

St. George is a geological marvel where three ecosystems converge, offering a kaleidoscope of landscapes. You'll encounter vibrant red rock formations, ancient lava flows, petrified sand dunes, and slot canyons, especially prominent in areas like Snow Canyon State Park and the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. Look out for unique features such as the 'Vortex' sandstone bowl near Gunlock or the otherworldly 'Candy Land' formations at Yant Flats.

Yes, despite its desert setting, St. George offers trails with refreshing water features. The Red Reef Trail in the Red Cliffs Campground is a popular choice, leading through a canyon with small waterfalls and natural pools, especially after rainfall. Gunlock State Park also features a large body of water and a seasonal waterfall.

Many trails in the St. George area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out. Generally, trails in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and many city parks welcome leashed dogs. Remember to bring plenty of water for both yourself and your pet, especially during warmer months.

Yes, there are several excellent loop trails available. These are great for experiencing diverse scenery without retracing your steps. An example is the Dennis Schick Trail loop — Jefferson Barracks County Park, which is an easy loop with minimal elevation gain. Another option is the Officer Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park loop from Grant's Trail, which leads through parkland.

St. George boasts nearly year-round sunshine, making it an excellent hiking destination. However, the most comfortable times are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild. Summer can be very hot, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended, and winter offers pleasant conditions, though some higher elevation trails might see occasional snow.

While popular spots are fantastic, St. George also has its hidden gems. Snow Canyon State Park is often considered a local secret, offering stunning petrified sand dunes, lava flows, and slot canyons that rival national parks. Yant Flats (Yankee Doodle Hollow) is another unique spot known for its 'Candy Land' formations of swirled sandstone, providing an otherworldly hiking experience away from the main crowds.

The hiking trails in St. George are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning red rock scenery, the variety of landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that offer options for all ability levels. Many appreciate the unique geological formations and the opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems.

Beyond the trails themselves, St. George offers several interesting attractions. You can visit the River des Peres Greenway for a different kind of outdoor experience, or explore the unique art at the Laumeier Sculpture Garden. For panoramic views, the River overlook provides a great vantage point. The Red Hills Desert Garden also showcases diverse desert flora and even dinosaur tracks.

Parking availability varies by trailhead and popularity. Many state parks and national conservation areas have designated parking lots, though these can fill up quickly during peak seasons or on weekends. For city parks and smaller trail access points, street parking might be an option. It's always advisable to arrive early, especially for popular trails, or consider carpooling.