1. Discovering Washington County, Utah
Find red-rock canyons, snow-capped mountains, and excellent real estate value in Utah’s Washington County.
2. A Landscape of Adventure
There are few places in the country where visitors can admire landscapes as varied and dramatic as Washington County. As the home of four state parks and Zion National Park, Utah’s Greater Zion region stuns travelers with snow-capped mountain peaks, red-rock canyons, and sandy dunes. This area boasts vibrant communities that have recently earned Washington County the title of the best place to buy a luxury vacation home in the U.S.
3. The Secrets of Washington County
“Washington County was a well-kept secret for a very long time for local Utahns who came to the area to recreate and retire,” says Misty Murphy, a broker with Windermere Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International. Murphy, who relocated here 20 years ago in pursuit of rock climbing, notes that Greater Zion is “the new Sedona with more to offer.”
This region boasts stunning destinations like Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park, which are close to four reservoirs, renowned hiking, biking, off-roading, rock climbing, and golfing. Moreover, the region enjoys exceptional weather for most of the year, with only a few hot and cold months.
4. Greater Zion: A Geological Gem
Greater Zion is a geological treasure where the Mojave Desert, the Colorado Plateau, and the Great Basin intersect, exemplified by the towering Pine Valley Mountains rising 10,365 feet into Utah’s pristine blue skies. Adventure seekers can indulge in thrilling activities such as speeding down the state’s longest zip line in Green Valley or exploring the emerald waters of Sand Hollow reservoir. Rock climbing, ATV tours, boating, and mountain biking also provide fantastic options for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Recreational Opportunities
Zion National Park may be the crown jewel, but the four state parks in Washington County equally provide stunning backdrops for various recreational pursuits. Snow Canyon State Park, with its unique lava formations and red sandstone cliffs, offers over 38 miles of trails rich in Native American history. Fishing enthusiasts, paddleboarders, and kayakers can head to Quail Creek State Park and Sand Hollow, while Gunlock State Park is renowned for its 266-acre swimmable reservoir and picturesque waterfalls cascading over red-rock ledges.
6. Cultural Experiences and Entertainment
For those less inclined toward outdoor adventures, Washington County offers a vibrant cultural scene. The area is home to nearly 40 art galleries and museums, 14 golf courses, and entertainment venues, including the stunning Tuacahn Center for the Arts set amid the striking red rocks. Additionally, its proximity to Las Vegas means guests can easily access world-class dining and shopping options.
7. Evolving Real Estate Market
“During the pandemic, when recreational travel by plane came to a halt, people loaded up in their cars to visit national and state parks,” Murphy explains. The local real estate market has seen a surge in interest, particularly for furnished turnkey homes that offer access to resort-style amenities, including tennis and pickleball courts and pools.
Additionally, there is a growing demand for nightly rental properties, enabling homebuyers to profit while not using the property themselves or hosting family.
8. Premier Neighborhoods
Among the most sought-after neighborhoods in Washington County is Kayenta in Ivins, known for its zero-light pollution and breathtaking views of the surrounding red cliffs, which enhance stargazing opportunities at night. Investors are attracted to Desert Color in St. George, a short-term rental community featuring a private lagoon, and Black Desert Resort in Ivins, an in-development mixed-use project equipped with a 19-hole golf course framed by black lava rocks, alongside retail spaces, a hotel, and a spa.
9. The Urban Appeal of St. George
St. George, the largest city in Greater Zion, caters to residents seeking exceptional dining and shopping experiences. The town hosts a vibrant arts district and is a golfer’s paradise, boasting eight golf courses. Consequently, St. George also features the only year-round bike park in Utah, Snake Hollow Bike Park.
10. Diverse Communities
Other notable areas in Washington County include Hurricane, which hosts three golf courses, and the Alpine region, often celebrated for its tranquil rural towns and abundant outdoor activities, including water sports and hiking.
