March in St. George

Yant Flat is the crown jewel of St. George hiking, and March is the ideal month to visit. The trail leads to surreal, colorful sandstone formations that look like they belong on another planet — swirling patterns of red, white, yellow, and purple rock that have been sculpted by millions of years of erosion.

The 4-mile round trip crosses flat terrain before reaching the dramatic cliffs at the edge of the formation. In March, wildflowers often bloom along the approach trail, and temperatures are perfect for the exposed terrain. This hike has gained Instagram fame, but weekday mornings still feel uncrowded.

The Butterfly Trail is a hidden gem within Snow Canyon that most visitors drive right past. This short loop (about 1.5 miles) winds through lava rock and sandstone, passing through terrain that supports an unusual concentration of butterfly species — especially in March when spring warmth brings the first hatches.

The trail is easy enough for families but interesting enough for experienced hikers. March brings blooming desert marigolds and globemallow along the trail edges, attracting both butterflies and hummingbirds. The contrast of black lava rock and red sandstone here is visually striking.

Water Canyon is a beautiful introductory canyoneering route about an hour from St. George in the Hildale area. March snowmelt feeds small waterfalls and pools that make the canyon come alive. The route involves some wading, easy downclimbing, and one short rappel (which can be bypassed).

This isn't a technical canyon — it's more of an adventurous hike that gives you a taste of what slot canyons are all about. March water levels are usually manageable but keep an eye on weather forecasts. Neoprene socks make the cold water bearable.

Snow Canyon is the most accessible and reliable wildflower viewing spot near St. George. In March, the sandy areas between lava flows often explode with desert marigolds, Indian paintbrush, purple scorpionweed, and globe mallow. The contrast of vivid flowers against black lava and red sandstone is extraordinary.

Drive the main park road slowly and stop at pullouts where you see color. The area around the Petrified Dunes and the West Canyon trail are typically the best, but blooms shift year to year depending on where rain fell.

This free botanical garden showcases native desert plants in a beautifully designed setting along the Virgin River. March brings many of the display plants into bloom, and the interpretive signs help you identify what you're seeing on trails. It's also one of the best spots in town for bird watching during spring migration.

The garden is open dawn to dusk and makes a perfect early morning walk before breakfast. The adjacent paved path along the river connects to a larger trail network if you want to extend your visit.

The Saturday morning farmers market moves back outdoors in March, and the energy is infectious. Local farmers bring the first spring greens, herbs, and starts. You'll also find baked goods, honey, locally-made hot sauces, crafts, and prepared foods. Live music adds to the festive atmosphere.

The market runs Saturday mornings and is a genuine community gathering — you'll run into everyone you know. Come early for the best selection, especially the farm eggs which sell out fast.