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Red Cliffs National Conservation Area: A Desert Oasis

4.7 (2469)

Explore red rock canyons, discover ancient history, and encounter diverse wildlife in this stunning conservation area near St. George, Utah.

Discover the rugged beauty of Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, where the Mojave Desert meets the Colorado Plateau. Hike among red sandstone cliffs, explore archaeological sites, and encounter diverse wildlife in this protected landscape near St. George, Utah.

A brief summary to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

  • Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring.
  • Parking at the Red Cliffs Recreation Area is limited, especially on weekends and holidays; arrive early to secure a spot.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear for hiking in the desert environment.
  • Be aware of potential hazards such as flash floods, loose rocks, and extreme weather conditions.
  • Check the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the latest alerts, closures, and regulations.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From St. George, take I-15 north to Exit 22 for UT-228 N/Leeds. Turn right onto Old Highway 91 and continue for about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto W Red Cliffs Campground Rd. and follow the paved road for 1.3 miles into the Red Cliffs Recreation Area. Note that vehicles over 11'9" in height cannot access the Red Cliffs Recreation Area due to tunnels under I-15. Day-use fee is $5 per vehicle, payable at the self-pay station. An annual National Parks Pass is also accepted. Parking is limited, especially during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, SunTran, St. George's public transit system, operates Monday through Saturday. The closest SunTran stop is in Leeds, about 3 miles from the Red Cliffs Recreation Area. From there, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare to the recreation area. A one-way SunTran fare is $1.50. Taxi or rideshare services from Leeds to the recreation area would cost approximately $15-$25.

Discover more about Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area (NCA) encompasses 44,724 acres of diverse landscapes in southwestern Utah. Established in 2009, the NCA is part of the larger Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, created to safeguard the threatened Mojave desert tortoise and other species. Here, the Mojave Desert converges with the Colorado Plateau and the Great Basin, resulting in a unique blend of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore over 130 miles of non-motorized trails, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Red Cliffs Recreation Area offers a convenient entry point with facilities like picnic areas and trail access. Discover dinosaur tracks along the Silver Reef and Red Reef East Trails, or explore the Red Cliffs Archaeological Site, featuring remnants of Ancestral Puebloan dwellings inhabited between 500 A.D. and 1200 A.D.. The NCA also includes the Cottonwood Canyon and Red Mountain Wilderness areas, offering more remote and rugged experiences. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including mule deer, mountain lions, Gila monsters, and various bird species. Remember to minimize your impact by staying on designated trails, keeping dogs on leashes, and practicing Leave No Trace principles.

Explore the best of what Red Cliffs National Conservation Area has to offer

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