Red Cliffs National Conservation Area wilderness guide
National Conservation Area · UT

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers striking red rock landscapes and a host of outdoor activities near St. George, Utah.

National Conservation Area44,7254+ Trails

Designation

National Conservation Area

Total Wilderness Area

44,725

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers striking red rock landscapes and a host of outdoor activities near St. George, Utah.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, situated in southwestern Utah, spans over 45,000 acres of stunning red rock terrain. The area is part of the Mojave Desert and is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and unique geological formations. Visitors are drawn to its trails that wind through vibrant sandstone landscapes, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to explore petroglyph sites that speak to the ancient history of the region. The conservation area is a haven for wildlife, including the threatened Mojave Desert tortoise, as well as a variety of bird species. Popular among hikers and mountain bikers, the region boasts extensive trails and loops, including the renowned Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. Its proximity to urban amenities makes it an accessible destination for outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience the intersection of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Key recreational opportunities include hiking, camping, climbing, and wildlife viewing, making it a year-round draw for nature lovers.

Field Guide · National Conservation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Snow Canyon Overlook✦ Habitat of the Mojave Desert Tortoise✦ Silver Reef Ghost Town✦ Babylon Arch
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee is required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Washington, Utah
⌖ 5.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Washington, Utah

Washington, Utah is a lively desert town offering access to incredible hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and paddling adventures. With nearby protected reserves and famous state parks, it’s a perfect base for thrilling outdoor experiences year-round.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Ivins, Utah
⌖ 6.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ivins, Utah

Ivins, Utah is a vibrant desert town where hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing meet spectacular red rock scenery. With access to Snow Canyon State Park and the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, it offers adventurous escapes amid stunning sandstone formations and open skies.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
St. George, Utah
⌖ 6.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. George, Utah

St. George, Utah offers outdoor enthusiasts a desert playground with thrilling hikes, climbs, and biking trails. Famous for its proximity to Zion, it's a perfect basecamp for red rock adventures.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Gunlock, Utah
⌖ 11.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gunlock, Utah

Gunlock offers peaceful desert adventure with hiking, mountain biking, and warm hot springs soaking. This quiet Utah town is perfect for travelers seeking scenic views, starry skies, and outdoor relaxation far from crowds.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Leeds, Utah
⌖ 12.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Leeds, Utah

Leeds, Utah offers a rugged desert escape with top hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing just minutes from Zion National Park. Ideal for spring and fall visits, it’s a quiet basecamp for outdoor adventure lovers.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Pine Valley, Utah
⌖ 13.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pine Valley, Utah

Pine Valley, Utah, is a quiet desert mountain town offering hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and peaceful camping among red rocks and pine forests. It’s a perfect basecamp for adventurers seeking serenity and stunning natural contrasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Chasing the Double-Tiered Drop: Toquerville Falls Trail Blaze
ADVEXPEDITION
Toquerville, Utah
Guided TourADV Bookable

Chasing the Double-Tiered Drop: Toquerville Falls Trail Blaze

A guided, three-hour mountain-bike progression through chunky rock, slickrock and red-sand washes that finishes at a double-tiered waterfall—useful for riders who want shuttle-supported, coach-led desert riding.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip