Guide to the best hikes in Utah and Arizona desert.
The American Southwest is an adventure lover’s paradise, filled with towering sandstone cliffs, winding slot canyons, and breathtaking desert landscapes.
Whether you’re hiking to iconic rock formations, exploring hidden gems, packrafting through deep canyons, or road-tripping to scenic viewpoints, there’s something for every explorer. This guide highlights the best desert adventures across Arizona, Utah, and Nevada—from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes—helping you discover epic hikes, stunning sandstone formations, and unforgettable Southwest experiences.
Bryce Canyon in the snow is the best time to visit – the contrast of the snow on sandstone is incredible! Read for the top 4 hiking trails & viewpoints to see when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in the Winter.
Bryce Canyon National Park in the Winter Read More »
HIKE TO: Hidden Pinyon TRAIL: Hidden Pinyon Trail MILES: 1.69 mi TIME: 1 hr DATE I WENT: 12/15/19 DIFFICULTY: easy ELEVATION GAIN/ LOSS: 146 ft HIKE PERMIT: no ENTRANCE FEE/ PARKING: yes PET FRIENDLY: no LOCATION: Snow Canyon State Park, St. George, Utah If you’re short on time but want to get a hike in
Hidden Pinyon Overlook in Snow Canyon State Park Read More »
This blog post combines two separate half-day trips, but if you start in the morning, you can pack all this into one full day or a leisurely weekend trip! I pass Valley of Fire State Park, an hour north of Las Vegas, in Nevada on EVERY Southwest road trip from SoCal and always told myself
One Weekend in Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada Read More »
Hiked The Wave after 14 months of applying. This guide covers the 2026 permit lottery, step-by-step trail navigation, safety tips, and what to honestly expect — from someone who’s been there.
The Wave in Arizona: Ultimate Guide to Coyote Buttes North Permit and Hike Tips Read More »
There’s so many things to do in St. George outside of Zion National Park. Explore Sand Hollow State Park for stand up paddle-boarding and sand dunes, Gunlock State Park and Quail Creek State Park for a lake day, and Snow Canyon State Park for some light hiking and a small slot canyon.
Visit St. George UTAH: 4 State Parks and Hidden Gems Read More »
One-week road trip itinerary from Los Angeles, California to Sedona, Arizona. Find the best hikes and campsites.
Arizona/ Sedona Road Trip: Trails, Camps, & Things to See Read More »