The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Arrowhead (Trails) Highway was the first scenic highway in southern Utah. The original route idea was proposed in the early 1900s to encourage more automobile tourism between California and Utah. The trail was made to follow what was once the "Old Spanish Trail," which later became the "Old Mormon Road." Most of the highway was never fully constructed or modernized, resulting in many broken tires and mechanical failures. Today, the highway is preserved and protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Hikers, climbers, and campers can enjoy amazing vistas while learning more about the history of this dated tourist attraction.
Just a little over an hour away, Zion National Park sits 70 miles past Hurricane, Utah. You can also stop by Bryce Canyon National Park, which is 163 miles away. St. George, Utah, is the largest city in the area, with a population of more than 95,000.
The first couple of miles of this trail is often used by ATV riders. Once the path branches off, you'll have to work hard to make it up and over the nearby hill. There's minimal shade in the area, and you'll likely have to bushwhack your way through to reach the top.
Length: 5.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This well-marked trail intersects several others as it winds its way around. Take your time hiking, or plan to bring a mountain bike along for an exhilarating ride. There are many interesting rock formations in the area, as well as plenty of birds and wildflowers.
Length: 6.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Strap on your hiking boots or take your ATV out on this difficult multipurpose trail. Prepare yourself for gorgeous vistas that leave you breathless. You'll even be able to see the Virgin River flowing through the area.
Length: 12.0 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Gunlock State Park and Sand Hollow State Park offer excellent local fishing spots. You'll often find bluegill in Sand Hollow and plenty of catfish in Gunlock. You'll also find plenty of fish in the streams and creeks weaving between the mountains in the area.
There are many ideal climbing spots around the Arrowhead (Trails) Highway, including Welcome Spring and the Woodbury Crags Climbing Area. Check out Jarvis Peak, Boomer Hill, White Hills, and Tabeau Peak. Closer to the city of St. George, you'll find Price City Hills, Webb Hill, Washington Dome, and Little Black Mountain.
Badgers, flying squirrels, desert tortoises, bullfrogs, and Gila monsters are all common finds in this region of Utah. Mule deer, elk, and bison can also be found peacefully roaming the valleys. Many local farmers let their herds out to graze in empty pastures, giving you a chance to admire sheep, cows, and other livestock. Keep an eye out for predators like black bears and mountain lions.
The farther you travel away from St. George, the more difficult it will be to find picnic areas and shade structures. Most of your picnicking will likely be done near your RV or while you're out in the wilderness. Feel free to step off the trail and take some time to eat and rest.
Search for "BLM camping near me" to find inexpensive and convenient RV camping options. BLM Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area is one of the larger local Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. This site sits within the Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness in Arizona. The nearby Snow Canyon State Park Campground is a little further north and offers dump services as well as water and electricity. McArthur's Temple View RV Resort is located within St. George and gives visitors access to luxurious amenities like a pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, and cozy lounge space.
Dispersed or primitive camping is a popular alternative to campgrounds in southwest Utah. There are several Bureau of Land Management free camping areas in the Santa Clara River Reserve where you can pull over and camp for a few nights.
If you plan to spend most of your time climbing or hiking, be sure to pack a lot of water. Bring more than you think you need to minimize your chances of dehydration. Use a lightweight pack to hold an extra pair of clothes, snacks, sunscreen, and bug repellant. Don't forget cookware and a lantern. Stock up on supplies in St. George or a nearby community before venturing into the wild lands of Utah. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Practice responsible hiking habits by cleaning up all of your group's garbage. Respect the local wildlife and your fellow visitors. Bury any human waste at least eight inches down and 200 feet away from any trail, water source, or trailhead. If you're climbing, use disposable bags and take your waste with you when you leave.
From St. George, Utah, travel along Old Highway 91 for about 16 miles through the Paiute Reservation. Pass Motoqua Road and look for a sign on your right. If you reach Lytle Ranch Road, you've gone too far.
Ready to visit Arrowhead (Trails) Highway? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
