Things To Do in Hurricane, Utah
Located in the scenic red rock landscapes of southern Utah, Hurricane is a vibrant small town with a unique charm. Although the town is small, there are tons of things to do in Hurricane Utah and the surrounding areas. Hurricane, which is pronounced “Hurricun” by locals, is known for its breathtaking views, proximity to Zion National Park, and outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re in the mood for hiking through stunning canyons, playing in the water, or soaking in the peaceful desert atmosphere, this hidden gem provides a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. We’ve put together this guide to give you all the ideas you need to stay entertained while visiting Hurricane, Utah.
Things to Do in Hurricane Utah
It may not be a bustling metropolis, but there are plenty of things to do in Hurricane Utah, especially if you love to take outdoor adventures. From beautiful waterfalls to stunning red rock cliffs, you’re sure to find some amazing views nearby.
Trails
Whether you’re looking for an easy trail or a challenging climb, hiking the nearby trails is one of the best things to do in Hurricane Utah.
West Cinder Knoll Trail
Distance: 1.8 miles round trip but can be extended to 2.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy, with one steep section
Location: Located in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, the trail can be accessed from 600 North in Hurricane about a quarter mile west of 870 West. Park at the trailhead and walk over the step-over to reach the trail.
The West Cinder Knoll Trail is popular for hiking, birdwatching, and mountain biking, with a wide trail that takes you through the shrubby desert. There are few trees to provide shade, so avoid the trail during the hottest parts of the day, and make sure to bring plenty of water. The trail takes you to a knoll, which is actually part of a volcanic cone that has been heavily mined.
At the top, you can see the Sandstone Mountains to the north, East Cinder Knoll to the east, and some of Hurricane Valley to the south. From the knoll, you can turn back or continue on with options to take a number of forks. One popular fork in the trail takes you to the Virgin River. Although the trail is quite flat, there is a steep portion that can get a little slippery because of the fine cinders that make up the trail. Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash.
Confluence Park Trail
Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Located in Confluence Park, on the border of LaVerkin and Hurricane
This easy trail is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Hurricane Utah if you’re looking for a hike. Confluence Park was named for the confluence of Ash Creek and LaVerkin Creek where they flow into the Virgin River. The trail takes you along paths of crushed red rock, past basalt cliffs, old ruins (ranging from ancient Anasazi dwellings to a 100-year-old abandoned power station), and, of course, the creek. The trail is mostly flat and can be done in about 2 hours.
Mollies Nipple Trail
Distance: 2.2 miles out and back
Difficulty: Hard, with steep climbs and slippery rock
Location: Located east of Hurricane along State Route 59. Click here for more detailed driving directions.
Mollies Nipple Trail is a challenging hike that has you scrambling up the side of a hill that has a rather distinct appearance. While the area is littered with flat-topped bluffs and mesas, the pointy peak of Mollies Nipple is a unique landmark in the area. Because of the nature of the hike, you’ll want to avoid the trail during a rainstorm or shortly afterward. The hike is a killer leg workout, but the views of Zion National Park, Pine Valley Mountain, Quail Creek, and Sand Hollow are worth it. While dogs are allowed on the hike, it’s recommended that you leave them behind due to the difficult nature of the trail.
State and National Parks
One of the best things to do in Hurricane Utah is to visit one of the many parks–state and national–nearby. Zion National Park is the big one, but there are a number in the area to explore
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
The Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is an important area, created to protect the threatened Mojave Desert tortoise along with other desert-dwelling species. With its stunning natural landscape of vibrant red rock formations, desert vistas, and diverse wildlife, the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area covers over 45,000 acres of land. Visitors can explore unique geological features like lava flows and sandstone cliffs. There are a number of recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The Red Reef Trail and Babylon Arch are some of the favorite places to visit in the conservation area.
Zion National Park
When discussing the best things to do in Hurricane Utah, we can’t forget to mention Zion! This national park, which is just thirty minutes from Hurricane, is world-renowned, with scenic drives through winding canyons, and trails that take you up the red cliffs. Angels Landing and the Narrows are some of the most famous trails in the park, but there are tons more to check out. Home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species, Zion’s unique geography and rich natural beauty make it one of the most visited national parks in the U.S.
Kolob Canyon
While Kolob Canyon is technically part of Zion National Park, this section is accessed by driving about 30 minutes north of Hurricane. Kolob Canyon offers a less-crowded but equally stunning experience, with towering red cliffs, deep canyons, and a rugged desert landscape. Popular hikes like the Taylor Creek Trail lead through vibrant canyons and along streams, while the Kolob Arch, one of the world’s largest natural arches, is a rewarding sight for adventurers. Popular activities in Kolob include hiking, canyoneering, and wilderness camping (by permit only).
Snow Canyon State Park
Located 30 miles south of Hurricane, Snow Canyon State Park is a hidden gem. Like much of the area, Snow Canyon is filled with red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, ancient lava flows, and sweeping desert landscapes. Some popular activities in the park include hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and exploring the lava tubes.
Waterfalls
While waterfalls may not be the first thing you think of when you think of Hurricane, there are a few gorgeous falls in the area that you cannot miss.
Toquerville Falls
Toquerville Falls, located about an hour away from Hurricane, is a picturesque desert oasis known for its cascading waterfalls and refreshing natural pools. Accessible via a rugged, off-road trail, the falls provide a peaceful escape for those looking to beat the heat while enjoying the desert landscape. Once there, you can relax by the pools, explore the surrounding rock formations, or cool off in the falls’ flowing water. When visiting the falls, make sure you bring a high-clearance vehicle with 4-wheel drive, or you might get stuck.
Kanarraville Falls
A bit farther north than Toquerville Falls, Kanarraville Falls offers a thrilling and scenic adventure through narrow slot canyons. The trail takes you along a flowing stream that you cross and walk through multiple times. The end of the trail brings you to beautiful, cascading waterfalls and unique red rock formations. At the first waterfall, you’ll need to climb a 20’ ladder to continue on. The trail is moderate to strenuous, and you’ll need to purchase a permit ahead of time.
Water Canyon Trail
Located 30 to 45 minutes southeast of Hurricane near the town of Hildale, Utah, Water Canyon Trail is another hidden gem that offers a scenic and adventurous hike that takes you to a stunning waterfall. The trail features striking red and white sandstone cliffs, lush greenery, and a clear stream that flows through the canyon, creating small waterfalls and pools along the way. The 3.5-mile round-trip trail has a moderate elevation gain with a decent amount of scrambling, so make sure you’re prepared for a bit of a challenge.
Camping Spots
If you love camping, you’re in luck. There’s a number of great camping spots scattered around Hurricane. Here are some of the top camping destinations in and near Hurricane:
Sand Hollow State Park
Located just minutes from town, Sand Hollow is a prime camping spot if you’re looking for things to do in Hurricane Utah. The park offers both tent and RV camping with incredible views of the red rock formations and a sparkling reservoir perfect for boating, swimming, fishing, and even cliff diving. The sandy beaches and warm water make this a popular destination for family-friendly camping.
Quail Creek State Park
Another scenic spot right near Hurricane, Quail Creek offers peaceful camping with access to a beautiful reservoir that’s surrounded by rolling hills and classic desert scenery. Campers can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as stunning sunsets. Quail Creek offers both tent and RV sites with modern facilities.
Zion National Park
Just 30 minutes from Hurricane, Zion National Park offers world-renowned camping with towering red cliffs and easy access to iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows. Watchman Campground is very popular, with a mix of tent and RV camping. Before visiting, make sure to secure a reservation.
Gooseberry Mesa
If you’re looking for a more rugged and secluded experience, Gooseberry Mesa offers primitive camping and is a paradise for mountain bikers and hikers. The mesa provides panoramic views of Zion National Park and the surrounding desert. Because it’s so remote, Gooseberry Mesa is a perfect spot for stargazing.
Smithsonian Butte BLM Camping
Located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, this free camping area offers a primitive, back-to-nature experience. Just outside Zion National Park, Smithsonian Butte offers campers stunning views of the surrounding buttes and mesas, with access to hiking and off-road trails. The site is perfect if you want a free, dispersed camping option.
Places to Eat in Hurricane
While Hurricane may not be known for its culinary culture, there are still a number of yummy restaurants to try while staying here.
Mekong Kitchen Thai Restaurant
The Mekong Kitchen Thai Restaurant serves delicious Thai food in a beautifully decorated restaurant. Favorite dishes include mango shrimp stir fry, papaya salad, pad thai with chicken, and pineapple fried rice.
Peruvian Flavors
If you’re looking to try something new, Peruvian Flavors offers authentic dishes straight from Peru. Some popular dishes include lomito saltado, fried plantains, pollo a la brasa, and chicharron Peruano. Peruvian Flavors also serves some unique Peruvian juices that you can sample for free.
Pig’s Ear American Bistro
For an all-American experience, Pig’s Ear American Bistro is one not to miss. The atmosphere is fun, with chefs who also interact with the guests. Meat features heavily on the menu, with ribs and burgers playing the star role.
Rooster Run Cafe
Only open for breakfast, the Rooster Run Cafe provides yummy American breakfast options like chicken fried steak, morning chicken sandwiches, omelets, and chicken and waffles, and more.
River Rock Roasting Company
River Rock Roasting Company is another great place to check out for everything from salad and pizza to sandwiches and coffee.
Lodging in Hurricane
While there are a decent number of large hotels and motels in Hurricane, they don’t offer the most unique experiences. There’s nothing wrong with a Best Western or La Quinta, but check out these suggestions for a more unique stay in Hurricane.
Sand Hollow Resort
Sand Hollow Resort is a luxury resort with a mix of homes, condos, and suites. The resort has an outstanding golf course, an onsite restaurant, and access to tons of outdoor activities.
The Ardella Cottage
If you’re looking for a charming place to get away from it all, the Ardella Cottage is a great option. Located in LaVerkin, the historic home has been completely remodeled inside for ultimate comfort.
The Dwellings
For a truly unique experience, the Dwellings at River Rock in LaVerkin offers tiny home vacation rentals with all the amenities you need for your family trip.
Open Sky
If you like camping without the burden of setting up camp, check out the accommodations at Open Sky. Open Sky bills itself as a “luxury camp…experience,” with high-quality tents built safari-style in South Africa.
Gear Up for Your Hurricane Adventure
Whether you’re hiking through Zion or exploring some of the surrounding waterfalls, you’ll need the right gear for your trip to Hurricane, Utah. At General Army Navy Outdoor, we have everything you need to gear up for all the adventurous things to do in Hurricane Utah. Drop by to check out our affordable, high-quality adventure supplies today!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.