February in St. George

Babylon Arch is one of the most rewarding hikes near St. George, and February's mild temperatures make the 3-mile round trip comfortable. The trail winds through classic Mojave desert landscape before arriving at a striking natural arch framing views of the Pine Valley Mountains.

The hike involves some route-finding and moderate elevation gain, which keeps crowds thin. In February, the desert sage is fragrant after winter rains, and the lighting on the arch is particularly dramatic in late afternoon.

This lesser-known trail leads to one of the best petroglyph panels in the St. George area. The ancestral Puebloan rock art dates back roughly 2,000 years and includes bighorn sheep, human figures, and geometric patterns etched into dark desert varnish on basalt boulders.

The trail itself is short (about 1 mile round trip) but the setting is remarkable — you're walking along a volcanic ridge with panoramic views of the Santa Clara River valley. February is ideal because the cooler temps make the exposed ridgeline comfortable.

The Vortex is a dramatic slot-like formation in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve that sees far fewer visitors than nearby trails. The trail follows a wash into an increasingly narrow canyon where the sandstone walls twist and swirl overhead — hence the name.

February water levels are usually low enough to hike comfortably but high enough to create interesting reflections in the canyon pools. The total hike is about 2.5 miles round trip with minimal elevation change, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

The Kayenta Art Village in Ivins hosts a First Friday art walk that's become one of the best cultural events in Southern Utah. Multiple galleries and studios open their doors simultaneously, artists are on hand to discuss their work, and the desert setting at sunset is unforgettable.

The February edition often features new exhibitions as galleries rotate their winter shows. It's casual, free, and family-friendly. Combine it with dinner at Xetava Gardens for a complete evening out.

The converted sugar beet warehouse in downtown St. George houses a surprisingly strong collection of regional art. The museum rotates exhibitions regularly, and February typically features work from Southern Utah artists alongside traveling shows.

Admission is free (donations appreciated), and the museum is small enough to enjoy in under an hour. The building itself — with its exposed brick and industrial bones — adds character to the experience.

Painted Pony is the go-to for special occasion dining in St. George, and Valentine's week is their time to shine. Located in the Ancestor Square complex, the restaurant offers contemporary Southwestern cuisine in an elegant but not stuffy setting. The chef creates a special Valentine's menu annually that typically includes locally-sourced proteins and creative desserts.

Reservations fill fast — book at least two weeks ahead for Valentine's weekend. The upstairs patio, if weather cooperates, is the most romantic seating in town.

For a uniquely St. George Valentine's experience, hike to the top of the Petrified Dunes in Snow Canyon for sunset, then stay for stargazing. February skies are often crystal clear, and Snow Canyon's minimal light pollution makes for excellent star viewing. Bring a blanket, hot chocolate in a thermos, and a stargazing app on your phone.

The park gate closes at 10 PM, which gives you plenty of time for sunset and a couple hours of stars. The Milky Way won't be visible in February, but the winter constellations — Orion, Taurus, the Pleiades — are stunning.