Rim 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 was founded in 1946. Its main objective is sustaining the productivity of public lands for the enjoyment of the people of the United States and future generations. Some of its other priorities include conserving public lands and strengthening the climate resilience of these lands to reduce the effects of climate change. Bureau of Land Management camping is available in different parts of the United States. Some BLM campsites are free, but others require a small fee. To find your desired BLM camping site, search for "BLM camping near me." The Rim Trail is a popular Bureau of Land Management area in Utah. It offers exceptional hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This trail also gives visitors access to beautiful views of the Virgin River. Rim Trail is right next door to Zion National Park.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Rim Trail

The Rim Trail is a rocky single-track trail. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching while hiking this trail since the area is home to various bird species. Length: 7.3 miles Intensity: Moderate

Chinle Trail

In Zion National Park, you'll find Chinle Trail, an out-and-back desert trail. This trail isn't as popular as some in Zion, so you'll be able to enjoy the awe-inspiring mesas and stark landscape as you pass Mt. Kinesava. There are no bathrooms or water spots on this trail, and dogs are not allowed. However, there are few better trails to explore the scenery that has made Utah famous. Length: 16.2 miles Intensity: Moderate

The Narrows via Riverside Walk

The Narrows is the most popular trail in Zion, so expect it to be crowded. However, hiking to the dramatic slot canyon of The Narrows is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is an absolute must. The trail starts with the paved, wheelchair-accessible Riverside Walk that goes for about a mile along the river starting at the Temple of Sinawava. After the pavement ends, however, there is no trail; you'll just be walking in the river, so be sure that you wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Length: 9.4 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

You can find great fishing spots on different dams found along the Virgin River. For example, the reservoir near Quail Creek is about 120 feet deep and features a variety of fish species including bullhead catfish, rainbow trout, and crappie. Sand Hollow State Park is about 10 miles from Rim Trail and is a popular spot for fishing and OHV riding.

Climbing

Zion Canyon has several rock climbing and bouldering sites. It is located 2.6 miles from the Rim Trail and has 2,000-foot sandstone cliffs. The Globe is a bouldering rock located 40 yards west of the south entrance of Zion Canyon whereas the Drilled Pocket Boulder is situated 0.5 miles north of the south entrance.

Wildlife Viewing

Coyotes, bighorn sheep, Russian boars, mountain lions, gray foxes, and a large variety of reptiles are some of the wildlife that you can find along the Rim Trail. There are also about 450 bird species that inhabit the Rim Trail area.

Picnicking

The Rim Trail area is an excellent destination for visitors to enjoy a picnic while spending time with friends or family. There are various shade structures and picnic tables in different camping spots near or along Rim Trail. Guests can bring food and drinks to the camping spots in this area and enjoy a meal while taking in the site's spectacular scenery and beautiful sunsets.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

There are various RV camping options near the Rim Trail area. Hillside Palms RV Park is located about 18 miles from the Rim Trail. This RV park offers full hookups, 30- and 50-amp electric services, free water, and internet. It is also wheelchair accessible and features ample RV parking spaces with breathtaking views. However, you have to make reservations before visiting Hillside Palms RV Park.

St George RV Park and Campground is another great RV camping option nearby. This site offers full RV hookups for power, water, and waste. It also features cable TV, clean bathrooms and showers, and a spacious picnic area with picnic tables and barbecue patios.

Free Camping

You can find BLM free camping at Hurricane Cliffs Recreation Area in nearby La Verkin. As with most BLM sites, there are no hookups, and you can stay for a maximum of 14 days. There are 56 sites available, and each has a fire ring and awesome views of Gooseberry Mesa and the Utah desert.

RV Rentals Near Rim Trail Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Rim Trail BLM trip

The best time to visit the Rim Trail area is during the shoulder seasons: April to June or September to November. At this time, the temperatures are moderate and are perfect for hikes and other outdoor activities. These months are also characterized by minimal rainfall. When visiting the Rim Trail area, ensure you carry the necessary camping equipment, appropriate clothing, and enough food. Also, remember to carry plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM Camping.

Leave No Trace

BLM regulations require all visitors to follow the "Leave No Trace" policy when camping in the Rim Trail area. The "Leave No Trace" policy advocates for specific practices that help preserve the wildlife and scenery in the Rim Trail area. To protect the area's natural environment, visitors must ensure that they dispose of waste correctly and camp at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. Additionally, visitors should use small amounts of biodegradable soaps, avoid disturbing the wildlife in the area, and not build any structures on the campsites.

Rim Trail Location

To head to the Rim Trail from the Hurricane Hill Trailhead, head east from I-15 Exit 16 through State Route 9 and drive for 9.5 miles to Hurricane. When you get to Main Street, turn right and continue driving. Then, take the first left onto State Route 59. Continue driving for 0.75 miles, then turn left into the trailhead. Field Office Address: 353 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790 Ready to visit Rim 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 also have your RV to return to for the night. You'll also 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.