Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

The Virgin River Gorge, where the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area resides, was cut by the Virgin River. Though the Virgin River is relatively small, it is incredibly steep, dropping an average of 70 feet per mile - 10 times steeper than the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. This steepness, caused by the uplift of the Colorado Plateau, has given the Virgin River the ability to cut through sandstone and limestone canyons. The gorge provides a stunning and colorful mountain desert setting. The gorge mimics, on a smaller scale, the colorful layers and striking depths of the Grand Canyon. In fact, many of the very same geologic formations are present in both areas. The gorge connects the southwestern rim of the Colorado Plateau and the northeastern part of the Mojave Desert. The climate of the gorge is typical of the Mojave Desert with hot summers and mild winters. This desert climate allows for some of the most northern Joshua Tree populations. The canyon is usually about 5 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than St George, Utah, however the canyon can occasionally amplify winds. Many species depend on the water of the Virgin River. The Virgin River directly supports hundreds of wildlife species including, woundfin, Virgin River chub, Virgin spinedace, flannelmouth sucker, desert sucker, speckled dace, and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Many of these species are endangered or are considered sensitive species within the State of Arizona and Utah.

Recreation: The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area provides many recreational opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, water play, and more. It is surrounded by two designated wilderness areas. The Paiute Wilderness east of Interstate 15, and Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the west. The Sullivan Canyon Trail starts within the recreation area and heads into the heart of the Paiute Wilderness. The campground and day-use areas also both have scenic trails leading to the Virgin River. The Virgin River is occasionally runnable to small whitewater boats during spring runoffs. Please check for information on the fish barriers and flow conditions prior to running. Additional opportunities for recreation are available outside of the recreation area. A short drive on the Cedar Pocket Road (directly across the interstate from the campground) leads to the Cedar Pocket Wash Trailhead. This trail leads down a steep path to the narrows of the Cedar Pocket Wash and is a nice short stroll through a Joshua Tree forest. A trails map is available as a PDF or for the Avenza app . The Virgin River Gorge is also frequented by rock climbers and canyoneers. Additional information about recreation available in the area can be obtained by calling the visitor center at 435-688-3200.

Nearby: Hiking Trails The most popular hike is a simple hike down to the Virgin River via the River Trail . This is easily accessed from the lowest parking in the lower loop. The easiest trail is the Canyon Overlook Trail . This trail begins at the fee kiosk. It is a paved, ADA trail leading to an overlook and interpretative compass display. The best hike is the Narrows hike. This is a steep, 1.4 mile hike leading down to a limestone narrows punching through a geologic fold. The best starting point is a short drive up to the Cedar Pocket Wash Trailhead . For the more adventurous, Greyhaven Pinnacle is a exposed scramble up a limestone peak with wondrous views from the middle of the Virgin River Gorge. This 1.8 mile trail is accessed from I-15 Trailhead .