Hurricane Cliffs in Southern Utah

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Hurricane Cliffs

The 200 mile long Hurricane Cliffs UT run along the Colorado Plateau from the Grand Canyon to Cedar City offering excellent hiking and biking trails.

  • Hurricane Cliffs are just east of Hurricane in South Utah and climb to 5,259 feet 
  • Local information available from Bureau of Land Management on (435) 688-3200
  • Canal Hiking Trail 3.2 miles long follows an old 1904 water canal
  • Four biking trails make up a 20.8-mile loop, mostly single track

Overview

Hurricane Cliffs Utah run along the western edge of the Colorado Plateau crossing through Zion National Park. There is an excellent trail system for exploring this amazing area of rocky slabs, slick rock and smooth hills with spectacular views.

Location and Information

Hurricane Cliffs are located just east of the town of Hurricane in South Utah. They lie south of the Virgin River and west of Gooseberry Mesa and climb to 5,259 feet elevation.

From St George travel north on I-15 to exit 16. From Hurricane, Utah take Highway 59. Close to the top you can pull off and enjoy the views of Hurricane and La Verkin.

Contact the Bureau of Land Management (St. George Field Office) at (435) 688-3200 for more information.

Hiking Only Trails - Canal Hiking Trail

  • 3.2 miles
  • Travel 3.1 miles from Hurricane on Hwy 59. Turn left on gravel trail for 3.4 miles to Virgin Dam trailhead
  • Trail follows 1904 water canal
  • Not suitable for children or those afraid of heights
  • Flashlight required to explore the old tunnels

Biking Trails

These trails make up a 20.8-mile loop, mostly single track.

  • Jem Trail
    Travel 5 miles from Hurricane on Hwy 59. Turn left on gravel trail for 0.25 miles to trailhead
    Easy
    6.7 miles
    Connects Jem trailhead with the Virgin River
    1.1 miles before the river there is a junction with the Rim Trail
  • Rim Trail
    7.3 miles
    Moderate difficulty
    Starts from Jem trail
    Passes Virgin Dam trailhead
    Ends at Hurricane Hill Trailhead
  • Goulds Rim Trail
    5.3 miles
    Easy
    Trailhead on southwest side of the cliffs
    Gradual climbs
    Final part has more twists and turns
    Fantastic views
    Connects Hurricane Hill Trailhead with Gould’s Rim
  • Gould’s Trail
    3 miles
    Easy
    Starts at Gould’s Rim trailhead
    Goes to Jem trailhead, completing the loop
    0.7 miles of this trail is suitable for 4x4s

Horseback Riding - Chinatown Wash Trail

  • 3-mile trek each way
  • Easy
  • Out and back
  • Follows a riverbed which empties into the Virgin River
  • Local outfitters offer treks in the area

Other Hurricane Cliffs Resources

Bell Rock

Famous red rock feature near Sedona, AZ.