September in St. George
The heat breaks and everything reopens
94°F / 62°F
Transitional month. Early September is still hot (90s), but by month's end temps are in the comfortable 80s. Mornings are pleasant and evenings are lovely.
September is St. George's deep breath. The summer furnace finally releases its grip, morning temps drop into the 60s, and the entire outdoor landscape reopens. There's a palpable energy as locals return to trails they haven't touched since May. The light shifts golden, the crowds haven't arrived yet, and everything feels possible again.
Best Hikes (Welcome Back)
September hiking starts cautiously — early month still demands early starts — but by late September, all-day hiking returns. The anticipation locals feel is real.
West Canyon Trail — Snow Canyon
West Canyon is one of the best introductions to slot canyon hiking near St. George. The trail descends into a narrow sandstone canyon with towering walls that provide shade even on warm September days. The geology is layered and colorful — reds, whites, and yellows compressed into dramatic strata.
The full out-and-back is about 5 miles, but the most impressive sections are within the first 2 miles. September temperatures make the exposed approach section manageable, and the shade within the canyon itself is welcome. This trail is a good gauge for whether it's cool enough to return to your summer favorites.
The deepest, narrowest section of West Canyon is at the very end where most people turn around. Push past the "dead end" — there's a short scramble that accesses a final chamber that's incredibly photogenic.
Red Reef Trail — Fall Return
Red Reef is one of the first trails locals return to as temperatures drop. The seasonal creek often flows in September after monsoon rains, and the canyon's north-facing walls stay cool even on warm afternoons. It's a homecoming of sorts — the trail you've missed all summer.
September colors in the canyon are different from spring — the cottonwoods are still green but starting to fade, and the light has a warmer quality. The pools in the upper canyon are refreshing after the hike in, making this a perfect transitional-season trail.
After a summer of monsoon erosion, the trail conditions in the upper canyon change year to year. Check recent trail reports before going — new obstacles or changed water features are common in September.
Paradise Rim Trail — Snow Canyon
For a trail with a view, Paradise Rim delivers. This 3-mile loop follows the rim of Snow Canyon with sweeping views into the heart of the park. September mornings are ideal — clear skies, comfortable temps, and the low-angle sun illuminating the canyon below.
The trail is mostly flat along the rim, with a few gentle climbs. Several viewpoints provide natural rest stops and photo opportunities. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full sweep of the canyon, especially at the overlooks near the trail's midpoint.
Fall Events
September kicks off event season in St. George, with festivals and gatherings taking advantage of the improving weather.
Tuacahn Season Finale Shows
September marks the final weeks of Tuacahn's outdoor Broadway season, and performances take on a special energy as the company prepares to close. Late-season shows often sell out as word-of-mouth peaks. The September evening air is noticeably cooler than summer, making the outdoor experience even more pleasant.
If you haven't seen a Tuacahn show yet, September is your last chance until the following summer. The canyon setting is at its most beautiful as the light changes earlier, creating golden hour during the opening act.
Local Running Events
September brings the running community back to life after the summer hiatus. Trail races, 5Ks, and fun runs pop up as conditions allow safe outdoor competition again. The Snow Canyon Half Marathon is a perennial favorite, with a course that winds through one of the most scenic state parks in Utah.
Even if you're not a runner, these events are fun to spectate. The energy at aid stations and finish lines is infectious, and they often support local charities.