Honeymoon Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Bureau of Land Management is a federal agency that was founded in 1946. It manages over 10% of land in the United States. The agency works to restore public lands, produce clean energy, and maintain recreational areas for current and future generations. Honeymoon Trail is an old route in St. George, UT, with different points of origin. It was named "Honeymoon Trail" because it was a common route for young Mormon newlyweds traveling to and from the St. George Temple. The trail passes through the Colorado River and is one of the main trails settlers used in the 19th and 20th centuries. It is located near popular national and state parks, including Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park, making it a suitable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Honeymoon Trail

Honeymoon Trail meanders through a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes and offers spectacular views of the Hurricane Cliffs. It is a great spot for bird-watching and hiking. Length: 14 miles Intensity: Easy

Temple Trail

Temple Trail was constructed by 45 volunteers from local communities in St. George between May and April 1874. The trail is ideal for both hiking and off-road vehicle use. Length: 19.6 miles Intensity: Moderate

Red Reef Trail

Red Reef Trail is a two-track out-and-back trail that is situated approximately 16 miles from Honeymoon Trail. The trail is pet-friendly and has an elevation gain of about 90 feet. It is excellent for wildlife viewing, hiking, and caving. Length: 5.7 miles Intensity: Moderate

Bloomington Cave Trail

Bloomington Cave Trail runs through Bloomington Cave, an extensive cave system that offers photography, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. It's worth noting that all visitors require a permit to hike this trail. The permit is usually issued at the St. George Field Office, free of charge. Length: 1.9 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

Located 30 miles from Honeymoon Trail, Zion National Park has numerous fishing spots. One of the major fishing spots in the park is the Virgin River, where anglers can catch a variety of fish species, including perch, suckers, sunfish, and whiteheads. Visitors can also enjoy rafting, swimming, and tubing on the river. The nearby Santa Clara River Reserve is also ideal for fishing. It is located about 7 miles from Honeymoon Trail and covers over 6,500 acres. The main fishing spot in the reserve is the Santa Clara River. The river features numerous fish species, including trout, largemouth bass, bullhead, goldfish, and chub.

Climbing

For amazing climbing opportunities, you can head to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, which is situated approximately 3.5 miles from Honeymoon Trail. Cougar Cliffs, located north of St. George City, is one of the most remarkable climbing spots in the area. The cliffs have an elevation of about 3,401 feet and feature multiple climbing routes that are suitable for experienced climbers. The Turtle Wall is another excellent spot for rock climbers. It has an elevation of about 350 feet and offers fascinating views of the Black Rocks and Cougar Cliffs.

Wildlife Viewing

One of the major wildlife viewing spots near Honeymoon Trail is the Beaver Dam Wash National Conservation Area. It is located about 39 miles from Honeymoon Trail and spans around 63,500 acres. The area features incredible terrestrial and mountain ecosystems like the Beaver Dam Mountains and the Mojave Desert. Some of the wild animals found in the area include desert bighorn sheep, Mojave Desert tortoises, rattlesnakes, Iguanas, and jackrabbits. Located about 14 miles from Honeymoon Trail, Snow Canyon State Park is also home to a host of wildlife species. The park is situated in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve and covers approximately 7,400 acres. Some of the wild animals you can spot while touring the park include foxes, squirrels, coyotes, and bobcats. The park is also a haven for bird-watching enthusiasts, as it features a variety of bird species, including roadrunners, quails, wrens, and ravens.

Picnicking

Picnicking is allowed at any spot along Honeymoon Trail. All you have to do is select a spot that's perfect for you, spread out a blanket, and enjoy stunning views of picturesque landscapes and idyllic surroundings as you enjoy your meal. Picnic tables can be found nearby at the Baker Dam Campground.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Located about 28 miles north of Honeymoon Trail, Baker Dam Campground is a beautiful RV camping spot situated in the Baker Dam Recreation Area. The campground has over 19 campsites that offer a serene atmosphere for RV enthusiasts to unwind and rejuvenate. These campsites have picnic tables, fire pits, grills, vault toilets, and waste disposal areas. However, Baker Dam Campground does not offer water or electricity hookups. South Campground is another BLM RV camping spot situated 39 miles from Honeymoon Trail. The campground allows visitors to enjoy stunning views of the Virgin River and features various plant species, including cottonwood trees and juniper trees. It has tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, flush toilets, drinking water, and a dump station. However, guests are required to make reservations 14 days before the scheduled visit. For other recommendations of suitable Bureau of Land Management campgrounds that offer RV camping, search for "BLM camping near me."

Free Camping

If you want to find a Bureau of Land Management free camping site, you should head to Lava Point Campground. It is located 50 miles east of Honeymoon Trail at the highest point of Zion National Park. This campground is pet-friendly and has a toilet and picnic tables. However, it is not wheelchair accessible.

RV Rentals Near Honeymoon Trail Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Honeymoon Trail BLM trip

Before getting on the road, research the destinations you plan on visiting and make prior reservations for areas that require booking. You should also note that Honeymoon Trail becomes extremely muddy in the rainy season, making it hard to drive or hike. Therefore, summer is probably the best time to schedule your trip to the area. Also, remember to pack essentials like sunscreen and appropriate clothing since there are few shaded areas along the trail. You should also carry enough water in your backpack since there are no taps along the trail. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

The BLM requires all guests at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and trails to adhere to the Leave No Trace principles so as to minimize their impact on the environment. For starters, visitors must properly dispose of food scraps, cigarette butts, and other items that could harm wildlife or disrupt the ecosystem. The Leave No Trace principles also encourage guests to set up their campsites on durable surfaces, such as established campgrounds or designated areas, rather than delicate or sensitive terrain. In addition, visitors should refrain from disturbing historical, archeological, and paleontological sites and set up their campsites at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers, and streams. Guests are also required to dispose of human and pet waste in catholes and minimize campfire impacts on the natural environment.

Honeymoon Trail Location

To arrive at Honeymoon Trail from St. George, UT, take 1-15 and travel north for 1.8 miles. Afterward, take UT-9 E/W State St to S Gould Wash Rd in Hurricane, UT. Drive for 20 miles, then turn onto Antelope Rd. Drive on Antelope Rd for 10.8 miles to arrive at Honeymoon Trail. Address: 353 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790 Ready to visit Honeymoon Trail? 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 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.