Dixie National Forest in Utah

Covering approximately 170 miles of southern Utah, the Dixie National Forest is a remarkable recreation location to visit. The largest national forest in all of Utah containing a multitude of sites for ample exploration, the Dixie National Forest in Utah offers the nature lover several extraordinary views including red sandstone formations in Red Canyon, Hell's Backbone Bridge, and Death Hollow.

Enjoy the unobstructed view from Powell Point that allows you to see three different states from one vantage point. If you want to experience recreation activities such as hiking, fishing, or just take in the gorgeous views, visit Boulder Mountain and the tiny lakes that dot the area. Or, explore the Markagunt, Paunsaugunt, and Aquarius plateaus.

One point to note about this forest concerns the weather. Annual rainfall ranges between 10 inches in some areas to more than 40 inches in others. Higher elevations are more likely to get snowfall, while lower elevations experience severe thunderstorms in the summer months.

Temperatures also vary quite considerably. In the summer temperatures can reach 100 degrees F and higher in the St. George region, and in the winter dip below –30 degrees F at the peaks. Elevations in the forest range between 2,800 feet near St. George to 11,322 feet at Boulder Mountain.

Plant life is diverse as well, offering the visitor desert conditions with little vegetation and vast forested areas boasting low-growing pinyon and juniper trees. As you move higher up in elevation, aspen and conifers including pine, spruce, and fir take over the landscape.

For more information, visit the Dixie National Forest website.