For those looking to take a break from chilly Colorado this winter, there’s no better place than sunny St. George, Utah! This desert oasis is the perfect winter escape for Coloradans dreaming of warmer temperatures and outdoor activities. Here are the top reasons why St. George should be on your winter travel list if you live in Colorado!
Easy Access from Colorado
Getting to St. George, Utah from Colorado is a breeze. A direct flight from Denver to St. George will have you ditching your snow boots in under two hours, making it a perfect option for a weekend getaway. For those located in Western Colorado, St. George is an easy (and incredibly scenic!) drive - only 5 ½ hours from Grand Junction, and 6 ½ hours from Glenwood Springs or Aspen. Plus the drive gives you the flexibility to bring your own gear like bikes and golf clubs.
Smaller Winter Crowds
Winter is considered the off-season for many Southwest destinations, making it an ideal time to visit for those who enjoy solitude on the trails. St. George’s most popular attractions are less crowded, giving you the chance to enjoy everything from golf courses to hiking trails at your own pace. Shorter lines, easier reservations, and a more relaxed atmosphere make winter a quiet and peaceful time to enjoy all St. George has to offer.
Mild Weather
With winter daytime highs ranging between 50-65°F, St. George’s mild climate is one of the biggest draws in the winter. Clear blue skies and abundant sunshine make it a perfect setting to trade in your winter gear and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. While it may not be typical pool weather, many St. George vacation rentals offer heated pools and hot tubs so you can still enjoy an outdoor soak in winter.
Incredible Hiking in St. George
Winter is one of the best times to explore the hiking trails in St. George and the surrounding area. Iconic spots like Snow Canyon State Park and Red Cliffs Desert Reserve showcase the area’s dramatic red rock formations and desert landscapes. The milder temperatures, warm sunshine, and smaller crowds make these trails even more enjoyable in winter.
Make the short drive to Zion National Park for an unforgettable hiking experience. The lighter winter crowds will make you feel like you have this stunning National Park all to yourself. If you time it right, you may even be able to enjoy Zion’s stunning canyon walls with a dusting of snow, which is a magical sight! Some trails may be closed due to ice, but many popular trails and the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive remain open for exploration all winter.
Southern Utah is a Mountain Biking Mecca
St. George and nearby Virgin and Hurricane are known for their incredible mountain biking trails, which stay rideable year-round (depending on recent precipitation). From the flowy singletrack at Bearclaw Poppy to the technical slick rock at Gooseberry Mesa and the family-friendly GEM trails, there’s a trail for every skill level. Beginners and kids can also get some practice on the pump track at St. George Bike Park. Winter mountain biking means less dust, cooler temperatures, and smaller crowds – perfect conditions for an epic day on the trails. If you’re itching to get out on your mountain bike mid-winter, St. George, Utah is the place to be!
Golf Year-Round
St. George is a golfer’s paradise with over a dozen world-class courses. With the mild winter weather, golfers can tee off surrounded by gorgeous red rock landscapes. Popular golf courses like Sand Hollow Resort, Black Desert, Copper Rock, and Coral Canyon offer challenging play with stunning views that you can enjoy while your course at home is buried under snow.
Local Cultural Experiences
St. George also offers a rich cultural scene that is perfect for cooler days. Visit the St. George Art Museum or explore the fascinating exhibits at the Dinosaur Discovery Site. Take the kids to experience the interactive exhibits at the Children’s Museum or visit one of the excellent local parks. There are also tons of great restaurants in the area, as well as top-notch shopping to explore. St. George also offers lots of festive events during the holidays, as well as outdoor concerts and markets throughout the winter.
Plan Your Visit from Colorado
St. George’s mild weather, outdoor adventures, and laid-back vibe make it an incredible winter destination for Coloradans looking to escape the snow. Whether you’re flying from Denver or driving over from the Western Slope, this desert haven promises a refreshing change of pace from Colorado’s winter weather. Plus, guests can take advantage of non-peak season rates on vacation rentals, for a more affordable getaway to St. George. Red Rock Vacation Rentals offers nearly 400 St. George vacation rentals, with options in every size and price point for your winter getaway. Book your St. George vacation rentals and start planning the perfect winter desert escape!
