Explore Southern Utah: Adventure Awaits
Southern Utah’s otherworldly landscapes draw visitors from around the world, while pioneering artisans create exquisite food, art, and hospitality. Experience refined dining and cultural encounters that perfectly complement your adventurous days in this unique setting.
Getting Your Bearings in Southern Utah
Southern Utah generally encompasses everything south of Interstate 70. This region is divided into three distinct areas shaped by mountains, mesas, and canyons: Southeastern Utah (including Moab and Bluff), Southwestern Utah (St. George and Springdale), and Central (Boulder, Escalante, Kanab). Each area offers a five- to six-hour drive from Salt Lake City and features ample adventure and beauty, including access to at least one of Utah’s five national parks and eight national monuments.
The ‘Warm Hearth’ of Hell’s Backbone
Nineteen years ago, Jen Castle and Blake Spalding came to Boulder, Utah, to initiate an experiment in sustainable creations. This vision materialized into Hell’s Backbone Grill, a beloved restaurant and six-acre organic farm in the high desert at the edge of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. Operating from mid-March through Thanksgiving, the restaurant and farm welcome staff and volunteers dedicated to the farm-to-table initiative, creating meals with sustainably grown vegetables, herbs, and local meats.
Castle reflects, ‘From the beginning, we aimed to inspire visitors to fall in love with this place. We want to develop advocates for this land.’ They strive to be a launching point for excursions into the monument’s wilderness, encouraging staff to share exploration tips and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for storytelling.
Peace, Harmony, and Western Icons Near Navajo Nation
Another base for exploring Southeastern Utah is the town of Bluff, which offers a serene contrast to busy Moab, set under stunning red cliffs. Bluff’s closeness to the Navajo Nation enriches the area with Native American culture, emphasizing a sense of Ho′zho′—a concept of peace and harmony. Visitors can explore the ancient sites built by the Ancestral Puebloans around 650 AD.
The Cedar Mesa invites exploration, offering a quiet place for reflection. The Desert Rose Inn & Cabins provides modern comforts and guidance for discovering the region, while its restaurant, Duke’s, presents seasonal delights on a beautiful outdoor patio. Another option, Recapture Lodge, features room configurations suitable for families and larger groups, along with trails that explore the San Juan River.
Only 46 miles from Bluff, the breathtaking Oljato-Monument Valley showcases iconic landscapes that formed the backdrop for classic Western films.
Moab: The Epicenter of Adventure and Utah Hospitality
Moab is recognized as a hub of adventure, situated at the entrance to Arches National Park and alongside the Colorado River. Enthusiasts of river running, mountain biking, climbing, and hiking flock to this vibrant town. Notably, the Eklecticafe serves a delightful vegan-friendly breakfast in a lovely outdoor setting. After a day of adventures, relax at the Sorrel River Ranch, a full-service resort offering spa experiences beneath magnificent red rock cliffs.
Springdale: A Charming Gateway to Zion
The small town of Springdale embraces its role as the gateway to Zion National Park. As one of America’s premier national parks, Zion attracts four million visitors annually. To cater to these visitors while retaining a touch of civilization, Springdale features a range of galleries, eateries (such as the King’s Landing Bistro), and top-tier lodging options. One excellent choice is The Cliff Rose Lodge, located right by the Virgin River.
For a unique experience, consider luxury camping with Under Canvas Zion, offering deluxe tents and a plethora of activities from March to mid-November. Don’t forget to ask locals about less-explored trails in Zion for a more secluded experience.
St. George: A Classy Base of Operations in Southwestern Utah
St. George serves as the largest city in Southern Utah, popular for golfing and as a retirement community. Tourists flock to nearby Snow Canyon State Park, Zion, and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Utilizing St. George as a base grants you access to small city amenities. Book a table at Painted Pony, celebrated for its Southwestern vibe and contemporary dishes.
For accommodations, consider Red Mountain Resort, located at the edge of Snow Canyon State Park and close to the tranquil Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, ideal for peaceful hikes and nature trails. The resort and spa also offer guided services to explore rivers, canyons, and other natural wonders in the region.
