Need a gateway to stunning red rock landscapes? Head to Hurricane, Utah! Explore outdoor adventures, hike dramatic canyons, and enjoy small-town charm. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or relaxing by the lake, Hurricane serves up big adventures in a laid-back setting.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hurricane is during spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Mild temperatures make it perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring Zion National Park without the summer heat.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Hurricane is easily accessible via I-15 and State Route 9, about 2 hours from Las Vegas and 4.5 hours from Salt Lake City.
- By Air: Fly into St. George Regional Airport (SGU), just 30 minutes away, or Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) for more flight options.
- By Shuttle: Several shuttle services connect Las Vegas and St. George to Hurricane and nearby Zion National Park.
Where to Stay
- Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane/Zion National Park – Modern hotel with free breakfast and a pool, near Zion and Sand Hollow.
- Sand Hollow Resort – Ideal for golfers and adventure seekers, featuring luxury suites and access to off-road trails.
- Hurricane Hideaway Lodging – Cozy, affordable lodging with a charming, small-town atmosphere.
Best Things to Do
⮕ Sand Hollow State Park
Boat across red rock reservoirs and ride ATVs on an exciting summer trip.
Located in southwest Utah, Sand Hollow State Park will surprise you with its vibrantly colored landscape composed mainly of startlingly red rocks and sand against a backdrop of brilliant blue waters and wide Utah skies. This is a very popular state park which offers visitors a range of recreational facilities. The best way to experience the park is to bring along your camping gear and spend a night or two getting back to nature. Activities include kayaking and paddle-boarding on the Sand Hollow Reservoir, hiking, biking and ATV trails through the sand dunes. The bass fishing is rumored to be excellent. The park has two campgrounds with modern restrooms and water-craft hire is available on site.
Sand Hollow State Park, 3351 S. Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737, Phone: 435-680-0715
⮕ Quail Creek State Park
Fish in calm waters and kayak beneath cliffs on an easy, affordable weekend.
Quail Creek State Park is located just a few miles west of Hurricane city center, offering locals and passers-by an ideal spot to enjoy some outdoor recreational activities. At the heart of the park you will find the 600-acre Quail Creek Reservoir which is stocked with a variety of fish including rainbow trout and bluegill. The pleasantly warm waters of the reservoir mean that visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing and canoeing year round. There is a boat launch area and a fish cleaning facility. Other activities include hiking and mountain biking as well as horse-back riding. After a busy day of exploration you can relax at your campsite in this unique red-tinged desert setting.
Quail Creek State Park, 472 5300 W, Hurricane, UT 84737, Phone: 435-879-2378
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Red Cliffs Desert Reserve
Hike desert trails and spot wildlife while exploring this unusual natural attraction.
The jaw-dropping Red Cliffs Desert Reserve is located a short distance from Hurricane in a transition belt between the Mojave Desert, the Colorado Plateau and the Great Basin. The reserve encompasses a very unique set of overlapping habitats, home to varied endemic wildlife including the endangered desert tortoise. Adventure seekers will love this reserve. You can spend days exploring on foot or mountain bike – there are over 130 miles of trails to uncover. When the sun drops low you can head to one of several primitive campgrounds where you can spend the night stargazing. Families will find the City Creek area most suitable for exploring while those in search of a challenge can head to Red Reef, Red Mountain or Millcreek.
Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, 345 E. Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790, Phone: 435-688-3200
⮕ Pig’s Ear American Bistro
Savor gourmet comfort food and enjoy a romantic dinner in a cozy setting.
Chef Peter Dominguez’ love of food and cooking started with visits to his grandmother’s house when he was a boy. After 25 years as a chef in the San Francisco Bay area, Peter opened the Pig’s Ear American Bistro in Hurricane. From the outset he and his wife Leanne have been determined to set their standards high and ensure that each and every customer has a great dining experience. The bistro is open from 11am most days – visitors come to enjoy satisfying brunches, lunch or dinner. You will find all your favorite American bistro meals like salads, burgers, tacos and enchiladas on the brunch and lunch menus while the dinner menu includes steakhouse classics like ribs, New York strip steak, rib-eye and more.
Pig’s Ear Bistro, 75 North 2000 W, Hurricane, UT 84737, Phone: 435-359-1957
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Hike in Zion National Park – Access world-famous trails like Angels Landing and Emerald Pools nearby.
- Ride Gooseberry Mesa Trails – Mountain bike some of the Southwest's best slickrock trails and stunning vistas.
- Wander downtown Hurricane – Stroll local shops, art galleries, and historic buildings full of small-town charm.
Where to Eat
- River Rock Roasting Company – Great spot for fresh coffee, wood-fired pizzas, and panoramic canyon views.
- Stage Coach Grille – Classic American steaks, ribs, and comfort food in a casual setting.
- Perks! Espresso & Smoothies – Local favorite for smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, and friendly service.
If you are interested in local events:
- Peach Days (September) – Celebrate Hurricane’s heritage with parades, carnivals, food, and fresh local peaches.
- Sand Hollow Marathon (April) – Annual marathon showcasing the beauty of the Hurricane Valley.
- Southern Utah Outdoor Expo (March) – Outdoor recreation show with gear demos, activities, and entertainment.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Hurricane, Utah:
- Zion National Park (25–30 min) – Iconic red rock canyons, epic hikes, and breathtaking scenic drives.
- St. George (20–25 min) – Enjoy museums, art galleries, shopping, and red rock hiking trails.
- Snow Canyon State Park (25–30 min) – Explore lava tubes, red rock trails, and sand dunes in a serene state park.
- Sand Hollow State Park (10–15 min) – Perfect for water sports, ATV adventures, and sandy beaches.
- Quail Creek State Park (10–15 min) – Calm waters ideal for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding.
- Red Cliffs Desert Reserve (20–25 min) – Hike scenic trails and spot desert wildlife amid striking rock formations.
- Virgin, Utah (10–15 min) – Small town gateway to Kolob Terrace Road’s stunning backcountry of Zion.
- La Verkin (5–10 min) – Access the famous La Verkin Creek Trail and Confluence Park trails.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is the city of Hurricane located?
- The city of Hurricane is located about 300 miles south of Salt Lake City, where it is a popular base for outdoor enthusiasts.
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What are the main attractions in the Hurricane area?
- The area’s primary claim to fame lies in the Sand Hollow State Park and Quail Creek State Park, both of which provide a wide range of outdoor recreational activities against a unique backdrop of bright blue skies and red, red sand and rocks.
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What makes Quail Creek Reservoir special?
- The Quail Creek Reservoir maintains warm water temperatures for much of the year and is ideal for water-sport enthusiasts.
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Is the area popular for ATV riding?
- In addition, the area attracts ATV enthusiasts who can rent vehicles on-site and enjoy spectacular trails through the red sand dunes of Sand Hollow State Park.
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Are there other outdoor activities nearby?
- The nearby Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers yet more camping, hiking, and biking adventures.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming desert flowers, perfect for hiking.
Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane – A modern and comfortable stay near Zion National Park.
Hike in Zion National Park – Explore famous trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows.
Summer (June-August) – Hot but great for water activities at Sand Hollow State Park.
Hurricane Hideaway Lodging – A cozy and quiet boutique hotel.
Go boating at Sand Hollow Reservoir – Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, great for sightseeing.
Comfort Inn & Suites Zion Park Area – A convenient and comfortable stay.
Drive through Kolob Canyons – Experience breathtaking views of red rock formations.
Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures with snow-capped mountains in the distance.
Best Western Plus Zion West Hotel – A budget-friendly option with great amenities.
Explore Snow Canyon State Park – Hike through lava flows and red sandstone cliffs.
Plan Your Trip