What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail
The Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail offers stunning views of desert plateaus and red-rock canyons. The Point, a viewpoint on this route, provides riders and hikers with a 360-degree overview of Zion National Park and the Pine Valley Mountains.
Length: 11.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
South Rim Trail
The South Rim Trail is a singletrack route that zigzags through sandstone canyon formations and fascinating rock formations that is popular for hiking and biking. It provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding desert flora and fauna. The steep trail features sharp turns, requiring riders to have excellent bike handling skills.
Length: 5.9 miles
Intensity: Challenging
Fishing and Boating
The nearby Kolob Reservoir is the perfect destination for water-related activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Situated 48 miles northeast of the Wire Mesa Trail, this reservoir features two boat ramps and is home to various fish species, including rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout.
Climbing
Visitors can enjoy exploring the beautiful ridges and canyons in Zion National Park. The area's cliffs and red-rock canyons provide excellent climbing spots for experienced climbers. The nearby Pine Valley Mountains also offer suitable places for RVers to practice their climbing skills. However, you are advised to avoid climbing at these locations if it has recently rained because the sandstone gets fragile when wet.
Wildlife Viewing
The Wire Mesa Trail offers several opportunities for visitors to spot numerous species of plants and animals in this desert environment. The area is home to numerous desert and riparian plants and over 200 species of birds, including red-tailed hawks, bald eagles, rock pigeons, chipping sparrows, hummingbirds, and peregrine falcons. You might also spot over 78 species of mammals, including mule deer, foxes, bats, rock squirrels, and bighorn sheep. There are also numerous species of reptiles in the area, including rattlesnakes and lizards.
Picnicking
The Wire Mesa Trail does not have picnic grounds. Head to the Grotto Picnic Area, 13.8 miles west of the trail to find an excellent picnic spot that has shaded areas, tables, and restrooms.