
A Guide to Hiking Quail State Park Overlook near St. George, Utah
Quick Facts:
Location: Quail Creek State Park near St. George, Utah
Coordinates: 37.16846776689224, -113.39477873105773
Length: 4 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 950 Feet
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
In the heart of southern Utah, just a short drive from St. George, lies Quail Creek State Park—a serene oasis known for its sparkling reservoir, red rock cliffs, and stunning desert landscapes. One of the park’s hidden gems is the Quail State Park Overlook, a hike that offers panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding area. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick escape or a visitor eager to experience Utah’s natural beauty, this overlook provides a rewarding and accessible outdoor adventure.
How to Get There:
Quail Creek State Park is conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown St. George, making it an easy and quick getaway. To reach the park, take I-15 north from St. George and exit at UT-9 East towards Hurricane. Follow UT-9 for about 5 miles until you see the signs for Quail Creek State Park. Turn left onto 5300 West, and then follow the park road until you reach the designated parking area near the reservoir. The overlook trailhead is located near this parking area, making it easy to find and start your hike.
Parking Information:
Parking for the Quail State Park Overlook is available at a lot near the reservoir, where you’ll find enough space to park your vehicle. This parking area serves both the overlook trail and other activities within the park, so it can fill up during peak times, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you secure a spot and avoid the crowds. The trailhead is just a short walk from the parking area, providing easy access to the start of your hike.
Description of the Landscape:
The Quail State Park Overlook trail offers hikers a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of Quail Creek State Park from above. As you begin your hike, you’ll follow a gentle path that gradually ascends towards the overlook. The landscape around you is characterized by rolling desert hills, dotted with sagebrush and juniper, and framed by the striking red rock cliffs that define the region. As you reach the overlook, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Quail Creek Reservoir, its shimmering blue waters contrasting beautifully with the surrounding red and orange cliffs. On a clear day, you can see for miles, taking in the stunning scenery of southern Utah’s desert landscape. The overlook is the perfect spot to relax, take in the views, and snap some photos of the picturesque surroundings.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
The Quail State Park Overlook trail is an easy hike, making it accessible to hikers of all ages and skill levels. The trail is approximately 4 mile round trip, with around 900 feet of elevation gain. The path is well-maintained and easy to follow, with gentle inclines that provide a bit of a workout without being too strenuous.
Dog-Friendly Information:
The Quail State Park Overlook trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for visitors who want to bring their furry companions along for the hike. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the park’s natural environment and to ensure the safety of wildlife and other visitors. Be sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, as the desert environment can be hot and dry, especially during the warmer months. The easy terrain of the trail makes it an enjoyable walk for both you and your pet.
Local Regulations:
When visiting Quail Creek State Park, it’s important to follow all park regulations to help preserve its natural beauty. Visitors should stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the fragile desert plants and soil. The park adheres to Leave No Trace principles, which means packing out all trash, including pet waste, to keep the area clean and safe for wildlife. Fires are only permitted in designated areas, and visitors are encouraged to minimize their impact on the environment by avoiding unnecessary disturbance of plants and animals. Following these regulations ensures that Quail Creek remains a pristine and beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.
Other Trails Nearby:
Quail Creek State Park and the surrounding area offer several other trails worth exploring. The Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, located nearby, features a network of trails that take you through stunning red rock landscapes and offer opportunities to see unique geological formations and petroglyphs. For a more challenging hike, the Hurricane Cliffs Trail System provides access to a series of trails with varying difficulty levels, offering spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and canyons. Each trail in the area offers a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty, making it worth exploring multiple routes during your visit.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
In addition to hiking, Quail Creek State Park is a popular destination for water-based activities. The reservoir is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming, with its clear, warm waters providing a refreshing escape from the desert heat. The park also offers opportunities for picnicking, camping, and wildlife watching, making it a great spot for a family outing or a weekend getaway. For those interested in history, the nearby town of Hurricane offers a glimpse into the area’s pioneer past, with several historic sites and museums to explore.
Best Time to Visit the Quail State Park Overlook:
The best time to hike the Quail State Park Overlook trail is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild and the weather is generally pleasant. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, so if you plan to visit during this time, aim for an early morning or late afternoon hike to avoid the heat. Winter offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but be prepared for chilly conditions, especially in the mornings and evenings. Regardless of the season, the Quail State Park Overlook provides a rewarding hike with stunning views of southern Utah’s desert landscape.
Recent Posts