Tag: visit utah

Ashdown Gorgeous: Chasing Waterfalls

Ashdown Gorgeous: Chasing Waterfalls

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Distance: ~9+ miles RT

Elevation gain: ~700-1k FT 

Difficulty: Not technically difficult, but not for tenderfoots either. Teva or Keen style water shoes, or waterproof hikers are highly recommended as you are constantly in and out of the creek and the terrain is all rock, all the time. There is a wonderful payoff for those who persevere.

Spoiler alert:

Ashdown Gorge Trail is an out and back, slot canyon trail that follows a rocky, turquoise creek as it flows under overhangs and between shear limestone cliffs. The views are spectacular and dizzying at times.

This is a refreshing hike with plenty of opportunities to cool off. If you’re hiking on a cool day, the water crossings can be chilly.I hiked it a couple weeks ago and jumped into a little pool. This time, Labor Day weekend, it was too chilly for me to dunk in under the falls. Low temps in the area are dropping into the 30s next week.

Notes: At mile 3.5, the creek/trail forks. (It’s easy to miss if you aren’t paying attention.)  Take the trail to the left to discover the 2 wonderful waterfalls of Lake Creek and Rattlesnake Creek (adds 2 miles roundtrip). Stay straight to experience the slot canyon cracking open to the big sky of the gorge. Be prepared for weather and don’t attempt this hike if there is rain in the forecast as there’s the danger of flash floods.

Photo update from September 2022. Leaves beginning to change. Ashdown Gorge never disappoints.

Happy Trails!

    Tip: Post hike libations and sustenance at Don Miquel’s or the Centro Woodfired Pizzeria in Cedar City highly recommended.

    Getting there: 15N to exit 57 to UT-130 to UT 14E UT (about 15 minutes form Cedar City) You can access the trail via the large pullout area along the 14 or via the Rattlesnake Trail, Crystal Springs / Potato Hollow Trail.

    Snow Canyon Red Mountain Trail Keeps Me Coming Back for More, Dammeron Valley, UT

    Snow Canyon Red Mountain Trail Keeps Me Coming Back for More, Dammeron Valley, UT

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    Why? For the stunning views of Snow Canyon and Pine Mountain, the colorful wildflowers sprinkled along the trail, and the vast horizon!

    Distance: 12.1 out and back. Note: This hike takes longer than the mileage would have you expect due to the varied, ornery terrain.

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    The first mile and a half of the initial approach from Red Mountain Trail is forgettable. And it should be noted that for the duration of the hike, you’ll be slogging through rocks and dirt, deep sand, some slip rock, and more deep sand. If you persevere to the Snow Canyon Overlook – just about 2.5 miles in, you’ll be rewarded by unforgettable views – ranking among the best in Southern Utah some say.

    The first time, I did the hike I had to turn around near the first overlook. The 2nd time, I made it a couple miles further, but had to turn around because night was descending and I didn’t have my head lamp. Walking through rocks in the dark, not recommended.

    Will I do again? Most likely–the views are stunning, it’s close by, and I’m stubborn. I’d like to make it over to the Ivins’ side just to take in that view. And yes, I could start there and do the scramble, but I’m notorious for walking off obvious trails, so probably not prudent. TBD, I’ll post an update on my next visit.

    Getting there: You can start this hike from the bottom at Ivins or from Dammeron Valley off the 18N. The Ivins’ way is the hard way for several reasons—it’s a straight up scramble with few trail markers. Rescues happen often here.

    Since the Dameron Valley trailhead – Red Mountain Trail is just down the street from me, I defaulted to that–I love climbs, but am not into risks that could take me out the game.