Renowned for its spectacular landscapes and wealth of national parks, the U.S. state of Utah is one of North America’s top destinations for outdoor adventure—and for those wishing to explore this massive expanse of land, it’s best to head south. Sparsely-populated and dotted with fascinating natural features, the Utah-Arizona border is a treasure trove of outdoor adventure opportunities, with ample opportunity for relaxation in between excursions.
Whether you’re searching for native wildlife, planning to conquer the Beehive State’s highest peaks, or just kick back by the fire under a starlit sky, the southern reaches of Utah are a veritable paradise for all types of traveler.
Measuring in at over 140,000 acres, Zion National Park has earned worldwide acclaim for its spectacular landscapes and rich array of flora and fauna—and for those wishing to experience the park in its full glory, it’s tough to beat a leisurely e-bike cruise. To kick off your voyage, head to Zion Adventures and snag a rental vehicle, then make your way along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to bask in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. As you speed down the open road, be sure to swing by Weeping Rock—a towering slope that’s lined with verdant moss and trickling water—and keep an eye out for Zion’s native bighorn sheep.
In addition to stunning natural features like Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, the Kanab area is also home to an incredible food scene, with Sego serving as one of the town’s most spectacular dining destinations. Equipped with a menu that specializes in regional New American fare, dishes around here draw inspiration from all corners of the globe, with choices ranging from elote fritters to Cantonese salt and pepper shrimp to masterfully-crafted chicken satay. For early risers, Kanab Creek Bakery is a top-notch breakfast destination, providing visitors with sweet European-style selections including apple turnovers, pistachio croissants, and quiche Lorraine in a supremely cozy space.
While there’s no shortage of incredible campsites scattered across the Beehive State, Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch offers an elevated spin on the activity, equipped with a wealth of cozy glamping tents complete with private fire pits. During warmer months, the property’s wetlands spring to life with native fauna, while kayaks, paddleboards, and freshwater fish can be found all throughout the main pond. For those wishing to explore the surrounding region, Cave Lakes also offers a plethora of activities through ROAM Outdoor Adventure, with excursions ranging from leisurely horseback riding through Cave Lakes Canyon to a heart-pounding via ferrata voyage high above Orderville Valley.
Home to roughly 250 inhabitants, the tiny community of Bluff offers a particularly charming rural escape in the form of Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa. Founded in 2020, this idyllic property serves as the perfect base for exploring nearby sites like Goosenecks State Park—and after a long day of basking in the beauty of southern Utah, there’s a wide array of relaxing amenities to enjoy back at the property. The HóZhó Spa offers treatments ranging from organic facials to massages using hot stones from the nearby San Juan River, while the outdoor pool and hot tub are perfect for a relaxing post-spa soak in full view of the surrounding mountains.
The arid expanses of southern Utah are home to a surprisingly wide array of flora and fauna, making it a highly underrated destination for wildlife lovers. For birders in particular, the scenic Snow Canyon State Park is well worth a visit, hosting a diverse array of avian species to watch for. Raptors abound across the wide open skies, with Cooper’s, sharp-shinned, and red-tailed hawks all thriving across the region, while ground-dwelling birds range from the Gambel's quail to the iconic roadrunner. Beyond birds, the region also serves as a refuge for non-avian animals, offering an opportunity to spot Gila monsters, chuckwallas, jackrabbits, and even the occasional rattlesnake.
