Red Mountain Trail Diamond Valley

Red Mountain Trail (St. George)

The Red Mountain Trail is 11 miles north of St. George, opposite the small town of Diamond Valley. This is not a casual-riding trail. It's one of the meanest, roughest little trails in the St. George area -- a brutally rough climb up rock ledges. Only the strong and skilled need apply.

Typical look up the trail during the climb. The multiple rock ledges are very doable, but they never let up. March 29, 2003.

And there's something else you should consider before heading to this trail: We're not even sure it's legal to ride Red Mountain (although that doesn't stop the ATV and trials-motorcycle crowd, who continue to ride it regularly). Past the ridgeline (2.7 miles), the trail enters the Red Mountain Wilderness Study Area, west of the cliffs above Snow Canyon. We suggest you NOT go beyond the ridge. But the first section, which we describe here, has also been proposed as a separate "study area." A court ruling (April 2003) has held that land can't be locked up by calling it a "study area," so you're legally clear to ride for now. But if a sign appears marking the trail off-limits, drop us a note.

The trail climbs up to some nice views northward to the Pine Valley Mountains. At the ridgeline, you can look from the top of the fantastic sandstone cliffs of the west fork of Snow Canyon.

View northward towards the Pine Valley Mountains, from about half-way up the trail.

The trail extends along the ridge above Snow Canyon all the way to Ivins. Many bikers stash the cycle and do this trail as a hike or run with a shuttle. Frankly, that's my best suggestion for how to enjoy this trail. Maps of the preserve area, including this trail, are available at the visitor's center in St. George.

Trail Notes:
0.0 Straight through the cattle guard
       N 37° 16.787' W 113° 39.168' Alt 4700
       Multiple forks, keep straight
0.2 Trail on R of circle
1.1 Trail levels off, intermittent sand
2.0 Sandy area
2.5 Stiff climb, switchback
2.7 Ridgetop, trail forks and descends
       N 37° 15.436' W 113° 40.425' Alt 5150
       Red Mountain Wilderness Study Area
       Stop here at ridgetop!

Looking south from the ridge into Snow Canyon.

Getting there: Drive north on Bluff Street in St. George. As you go straight through the Snow Canyon Parkway intersection, zero your odometer. Drive past Snow Canyon. Pass a cinder cone, Diamond Valley, and another cinder cone on your right. 11.2 miles from the stop light, spot a small dirt road and primitive parking on your left at GPS N 37° 16.787' W 113° 39.168'.

Riding resources:
Single-page riding guide
Lodging, camping, shops:
Links to St. George area resources