When avalanche danger limits mountain hiking it becomes a good time to head south to Utah's red rock country for some desert hiking. One of my favorite late winter/early spring hikes in Utah's Dixie is the Red Reef Trail located at the Red Cliffs Recreation Area near tiny Harrisburg, Utah. From St. George travel north on I-15 for about 15 miles taking exit 22 to Leeds, Utah. Turn south onto Old Highway 91 and travel for about 2 miles then turn right at the signed junction for Red Cliffs Recreation area. Continue under 2 narrow freeway tunnels then take a left turn and follow the paved road just over 1 mile into the Red Cliffs campground. This recreation area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and a $5.00 day use fee is required. Red Cliffs is very popular and extremely busy on weekends and holidays even in February and parking is limited. The trail follows Quail Creek along a beautiful sequence of small waterfalls and pools. When you arrive at the second waterfall and pool you will find a series of steps carved into the sandstone and a rope to help make your way over the pool to explore a little further up the canyon.
 |
| Upper Pool |
 |
| Grandson at upper pool |
If you don't mind getting very wet, you can continue hiking up Quail Creek and explore more of this beautiful canyon.
Back at the beginning of the trail you will pass this very old dead tree that looks just like the head of an elephant.
 |
| This photo taken early May |
 |
| At the beginning of Red Reef trail. |
 |
| First pool and small waterfall. |
 |
| Great hike for the entire family! |
There are 10 overnight camping sites at Red Cliffs which look lovely, and a picnic
area next to the creek. Water, picnic tables, and vault toilets are also
available.
Enjoy!
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
******Miles hiked tally
beginning March 22, 2013
Beginning of this Blog
224.5
