Scout Cave Trail: The Ultimate Guide to This St. George Favorite

his hike stands out at one of the most social media friendly hike. The view from the cave mouth is incredible and you'll be able to take some breath taking pictures. In combination with the volcanic lava fields, red rock canyons, and the most photogenic cave with sweeping views of the valley. This trail delivers on all fronts making it a true Southern Utah experience without requiring a full day commitment. Be sure to tick this one off your hiking bucket list. also Trail Details at a Glance Scout cave is about 3.5 miles round trip with 300 feet elevation gain. The hike generally takes about 1-2 hours to complete and more if you want to spend time exploring the cave. The trail is rated easy to moderate and is suitable for families with who have little hiking experience. There is a gravel parking area on the left. The hike is across the street from the first parking lot from the southern entrance, be aware this hike is now inside the boundaries of the park so a fee will be paid at the park entrance. This hike is about a 15 minute drive from downtown St. George. The Hiking Experience Your adventure starts with a walk across an ancient lava flow. There volcanic rocks date back 27 thousand years ago and they create a dramatic contrast with the surrounding red and white rocks. The terrain here is rugged and has scratch plenty of knees, be sure to tighten those hiking shoes. Watch your footing as you'll be walking over uneven lava rock at times. After crossing the lava field, the trail descends into a beautiful canyon where you'll spend the next mile or so walking along the base of an impressive sandstone cliffs. This section is pretty flat and offers plenty of chances to enjoy the geology. The final stretch to Scout Cave is climbing up from the canyon floor, the elevation gain is modest but noticeable. All your efforts are rewarded when you reach the cave. The Cave Scout Cave is a large alcove carved out of the sandstone cliff face. The opening is a distinct tear shape and creates for some photogenic scenery. It frames the valley below like a natural tear shaped picture. Inside the cave you can escape the sun depending on the time of year you go. As you walk from the back of the cave to the front you are shown panoramic views of the St. George Valley, Pine Valley mountains, and the surrounding desert landscapes. It truly is one of the best views in all of St. George, Utah. When to Go One of the best thinks about hiking in St. George is the year round access, Scout Cave can be hiked every day of the year. Spring or fall offers ideal conditions offering temperatures of 65-85 F (~8-29 C). The weather is perfectly comfortable, the lighting is beautiful and the plants are vibrant. Winter hiking is also excellent, daytime highs are often 50-60 F (~10-15 C) which makes for a nice crisp hiking! One of the best winter hikes in St. George. Summer requires some planning and water, a lot of water. Temperatures can easily exceed 100 F (~38 C) from June through August. If you visit you'll likely want to do this hike early to beat the heat. I've done it with my kids in these conditions and it's hot, you need water (bring a extra), hats and sunscreen. What to Bring Camera - Amazing photogenic views Sun Protection - However you want to do it. Water ( over prepare in summer ) - Essential Snacks - Because I like snacks, and so should you (can easily spend 3 hours here) Sturdy shoes - Walking over lava rocks can be an ankle twister Tips for Families It's a manageable hike for kids who've been on hikes. I've done it with a toddler, I just put her up in the baby carrier through certain parts. Children who love climbing rocks with have an absolute blast. Keep an eye on the young ones at certain parts, a little attention here keeps everyone safe. I'd recommend a carrier backpack of some type for the toddler aged kids, strollers won't work. I took my toddler out at certain parts, she even climbed the stairs at the end. Final Thoughts This is a must do, everyone who comes to St. George should do this hike. It's family friendly and can pay back in some pretty amazing photos. It's a great place to come see a huge range of geological history. The wide variety of rock types here is stunning from red, black and white rocks, from sweeping sandstone hills to towering white cliffs all littered with dark lava rock. It is truly an experience you wont forget.