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Sullivan Canyon Trail

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

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Sullivan Canyon Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is the principal federal agency responsible for managing public lands in the United States. The BLM's main purpose is to balance the use of natural resources, provide recreation opportunities, protect natural and cultural resources, promote environmental stewardship, and preserve historic sites. Founded in 1946, the agency oversees more than 240 million acres of public land. Some Bureau of Land Management campgrounds allow guests to camp for a fee, while others are free. Depending on your budget and camping needs, you can use Google to conduct an online search with the words "BLM camping near me" to get various options of appropriate Bureau of Land Management camping spots. Located about 20 miles southwest of St. George, Utah, Sullivan Canyon Trail is a BLM-managed scenic route that takes visitors through the mesmerizing red sandstone formations of southern Utah. This BLM site is the perfect destination for camping enthusiasts and photographers. The Virgin River runs through the canyon and is home to a diverse ecosystem of plants, trees, and wildlife. However, it's important to note that hiking in the canyon may require wading or crossing the river at specific points, depending on the water levels and conditions. The area offers numerous beautiful sites, which guests can explore by car or on foot. There are no camping facilities available in this national reserve, but there are plenty of BLM RV camping grounds in the nearby areas where you can spend a night or two. The trail is also conveniently located near Zion National Park, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who love extra fun and adventure.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Angels Landing Trail

Angels Landing Trail is a challenging hike along a narrow ridge with several 100-foot drop-offs. The trail offers majestic views of the Zion Canyon and is mainly paved with sand and rock. You will need a permit to explore this trail, especially if you will be hiking during the peak season. It costs $6 to apply for the permit and an extra $3 if your permit is accepted. The best months to go hiking on Angels Landing Trail are February to October. Length: 5.4 miles Intensity: Difficult

Pa'rus Trail

The Pa'rus Trail is located in Zion National Park and starts at the park's South Campground, north of Springdale. It then heads north along Virgin River and crosses Oak Creek and Pine Creek, making biking easier as you can cool off in the streams, especially during the summer. There is a visitor center along the trail with spur trails leading to the Zion Human History Museum and the Zion Nature Center, where you can learn all about the park's history. Length: 1.6 miles Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Fishing opportunities are plentiful in the nearby Quail Creek and Sand Hollow reservoirs. Both reservoirs are stocked with rainbow trout, crappie, bullhead catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass. The warm waters of the reservoirs also make them very popular for boating activities throughout the year.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife is abundant as you drive along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Some of the wild animals that you are likely to spot along this road include mule deer, foxes, bats, bighorn sheep, and rock squirrels. The nearby Riverside Walk is also a fantastic paved trail that follows the Virgin River. It offers a safe, peaceful, and accessible route for children and older people. Guests walking on this trail will be able to view wild animals like squirrels, mule deer, and the great blue heron.

Picnicking

One of the most popular picnic spots near Sullivan Canyon Trail is the Grotto Picnic Area, which is situated along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This picnic area has picnic tables, charcoal grills, and restroom facilities. It also features a shaded area that is surrounded by beautiful views of the peaks of the Great White Throne and Lady Mountain, providing a serene backdrop for your picnic.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

If you enjoy the freedom of RV camping, the nearby St. George / Hurricane KOA Holiday is a great spot to park your RV as you explore Sullivan Canyon Trail and surrounding areas. The campground offers great views of the red-rock desert of southern Utah. It offers a variety of amenities, including a dog park, back-in sites, a pavilion, a pool, potable water, pull-through sites, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Free Camping

If you are on a tight budget, you can head to the nearby Lava Point Campground, which is a Bureau of Land Management free camping site. The campground features six primitive campsites that are ideal for rustic camping. It is approximately 7,890 feet and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The campground provides basic amenities, including picnic tables and pit toilets. However, no potable water is available at the campground. Lava Point Campground is open from May through September, depending on the weather. It is an excellent spot for stargazing because of its high elevation and minimal light pollution.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Sullivan Canyon Trail BLM trip

When planning a trip to Sullivan Canyon Trail, it is recommended to visit the site during spring or fall when the weather conditions are favorable. Spring and fall are also the best visiting seasons because there are usually minimal crowds. You are also advised to prepare for emergencies by carrying a map, compass, and GPS device since the area has unreliable network connectivity. You should also familiarize yourself with the area's emergency services and have a plan in case of accidents or unexpected situations. Also, remember to apply for a camping permit from the Bureau of Land Management if you plan to camp on 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

After a successful camping trip along Sullivan Canyon Trail, you are required to leave the place cleaner than you found it. You should pack essential gear, including trash bags, a trowel for burying waste, and reusable containers for storing food and leftovers. It would help to camp in designated camping areas whenever possible so as to minimize environmental impact. Also, make sure to look for established fire rings if you wish to light a campfire to prevent fire outbreaks. You are also advised to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid approaching or feeding them.

Sullivan Canyon Trail Location

Sullivan Canyon Trail can be accessed from the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area. From St George, UT, travel southwest on I-15 for about 20 miles to get to the Virgin River Gorge Recreation Area. Afterward, take the Cedar Pockets exit, which is located halfway through the Virgin River Gorge. Drive on Cedar Pocket Road for three minutes and take a right turn to arrive at the trail. Latitude/Longitude: 36.949747, -113.797959 Ready to visit Sullivan Canyon 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.

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