January in St. George

The Petrified Dunes are arguably the most photogenic spot in Snow Canyon, and January is the best time to visit. The slickrock formations cast dramatic shadows in the low winter sun, and you'll often have the entire area to yourself. The "trail" is really a choose-your-own-adventure across undulating sandstone — perfect for families or anyone who wants to scramble and explore without a set path.

The rock stays grippy even when cold, making this a safe winter option. Plan for about an hour of exploring, though many people linger much longer once they start discovering the pockets, swirls, and mini-arches carved into the stone.

Red Reef is a year-round favorite, but January transforms it. The seasonal stream that runs through the lower canyon is often flowing after winter rains, creating small pools and reflections against the red walls. The trail follows a wash into an increasingly narrow canyon — it feels like walking into the earth.

The full out-and-back to the upper waterfall is about 3 miles, but most people turn around at the first set of pools (about 1.5 miles in). In January, water crossings are minimal but bring waterproof shoes just in case.

Pioneer Park sits right in the heart of St. George and offers surprisingly rewarding exploration for a city park. The red sandstone formations create a natural playground of slots, tunnels, and overlooks with views across the entire valley. Sunset from the top is a local ritual.

In January, the park is perfect for a quick after-work hike when the days are short. Multiple routes wind through the rocks, from easy paved paths to scrambles through narrow slots. The west-facing slopes catch the last light beautifully.

One of the most significant dinosaur track sites in North America, and it's right here in St. George. The museum protects thousands of Early Jurassic tracks preserved in sandstone, including rare swim tracks and the tracks of a crouching dinosaur. The interpretive displays are genuinely fascinating — this isn't a dusty roadside attraction.

January is a great time to visit because the museum is uncrowded, and staff have more time to share stories and point out details you'd miss on your own. Kids especially love the hands-on exhibits.

Tuacahn's outdoor amphitheater is famous for summer Broadway productions, but the indoor theater runs year-round with concerts, plays, and special events. The venue is tucked into a red rock canyon in Ivins, and even the drive there is scenic.

January typically features holiday-season wrap-up shows and the start of the winter concert series. Check their calendar — they often bring in nationally touring acts that feel surprisingly intimate in this setting.

While most people stick to the main trails at Pioneer Park, Third Ravine is a hidden slot canyon that requires a bit of local knowledge to find. The narrow passage winds through towering red walls, and in January the cool shade feels pleasant rather than cold. It's a short but memorable adventure — maybe 20 minutes through the slot — and feels worlds away from the busy park above.

Access is from the southeast corner of the park. Look for the social trail that drops into the wash. The slots are narrow enough that you'll turn sideways in places.

Tucked into the Kayenta Art Village in Ivins, Xetava Gardens is the kind of place that makes you wonder how such a good restaurant ended up in such an unexpected location. The café serves globally-inspired dishes with local ingredients, and the outdoor patio — sheltered and south-facing — is comfortable even in January's cooler temps.

The menu changes seasonally, but the weekend brunch is consistently excellent. Pair it with a walk through the Kayenta art galleries afterward.

George's Corner occupies a prime spot in the Ancestor Square complex downtown and serves as something of a community living room. The menu covers a lot of ground — good burgers, solid salads, creative cocktails — and the atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming. In January, grab a seat by the fireplace and watch downtown go by.

Live music on weekends adds to the appeal, and the patio heaters extend the outdoor season well into winter.

A local favorite for good reason — Riggatti's makes excellent Neapolitan-style pizza in a wood-fired oven, and the casual atmosphere is perfect for families. January is the ideal time to hit Riggatti's because you'll actually get a table without the summer tourist wait.

The Margherita is the benchmark, but don't overlook the pasta dishes. The tiramisu is house-made and worth saving room for.