Apple Valley UtahATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Apple Valley, Utah.
1. Zion National Park
BREATHTAKING NATURAL WONDER
Zion National Park is a stunning conservation area known for its towering red cliffs, lush emerald pools, and unique wildlife. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks along the Virgin River to challenging climbs like Angels Landing. The park's diverse ecosystem offers opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and experiencing dramatic seasonal changes throughout the year.
2. Gooseberry Mesa
MOUNTAIN BIKING PARADISE
Gooseberry Mesa offers world-class mountain biking trails with spectacular views of Zion National Park in the background. The mesa features a network of trails suitable for intermediate to advanced riders, with technical slickrock sections and flowing singletracks. This popular outdoor destination includes adequate parking facilities and restrooms at the White Trailhead, though visitors should be aware that the access road can become impassable when wet.
3. JEM Trails
FLOWING DESERT SINGLETRACK
The JEM Trails system consists of Upper and Lower sections offering some of the most enjoyable mountain biking experiences in the region. The Upper JEM Trail provides an easy and fast descent with spectacular views, while the Lower JEM Trail offers a great climbing route and flowing descent. These trails are part of the Hurricane Cliffs Trail System and are popular for their accessibility to riders of various skill levels.
4. Dead Ringer Trail
EXHILARATING BIDIRECTIONAL RIDE
Dead Ringer Trail is a versatile mountain biking path that offers incredible flow in both directions. When riding downhill, the trail delivers an unbeatable flowing experience through the desert landscape. Riders should note that uphill travelers have the right of way, making this a well-managed multi-directional trail experience.
5. Grafton Ghost Town
HISTORIC MORMON SETTLEMENT
Grafton Ghost Town is a preserved 19th-century Mormon settlement that offers visitors a glimpse into pioneer life. The site features several restored buildings including a schoolhouse, homes, and a cemetery dating back to the 1860s. This historic location has appeared in several films, including the classic western 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.'
6. Water Canyon Hike
HIDDEN DESERT OASIS
Water Canyon Hike takes adventurers through a less-crowded alternative to many of Zion's popular trails. The canyon features a year-round stream, lush vegetation, and dramatic sandstone walls that provide shade during hot summer months. Hikers can enjoy multiple waterfalls and swimming holes along the route, making it a refreshing desert oasis experience.
7. Kokopelli Golf Club
DESERT GOLF EXPERIENCE
Kokopelli Golf Club offers golfers a scenic desert course with beautiful views of the surrounding red rock landscape. The course features well-maintained greens, challenging holes, and dramatic elevation changes throughout the 18-hole layout. Visitors appreciate the reasonable green fees and friendly staff that enhance the overall golfing experience.
8. Zion Jeep Tours
RUGGED BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURES
Zion Jeep Tours provides guided off-road adventures through the stunning backcountry surrounding Zion National Park. Experienced guides share local knowledge about geology, wildlife, and history while navigating challenging terrain in specialized vehicles. Tours range from family-friendly excursions to more extreme adventures, allowing visitors to access remote areas not easily reached by conventional means.
9. Rockville Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Rockville Bridge is a historic single-lane structure spanning the Virgin River that dates back to 1924. This 217-foot-long steel truss bridge offers picturesque views and serves as both a functional crossing and a reminder of the area's transportation history. Visitors often stop to photograph the bridge with the dramatic backdrop of red rock cliffs that characterize the region.
10. Utah Mountain Biking Adventures
GUIDED CYCLING EXPEDITIONS
Utah Mountain Biking Adventures provides expert-led tours tailored to riders of various skill levels throughout the Apple Valley region. Their knowledgeable guides customize experiences ranging from beginner-friendly trails to technical advanced routes on the area's famous slickrock. Equipment rentals, transportation, and local insight are included with their highly-rated services.
11. Zion Helicopters
AERIAL PARK PERSPECTIVES
Zion Helicopters offers breathtaking aerial tours providing unique perspectives of Zion National Park and the surrounding landscape. Passengers experience the majesty of towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems from a bird's-eye view. Various flight packages are available, from short introductory flights to comprehensive tours covering multiple natural landmarks.
12. Jacob's Ranch
WESTERN HORSEBACK ADVENTURES
Jacob's Ranch offers authentic horseback riding experiences through the scenic terrain surrounding Zion National Park. Riders of all experience levels can enjoy guided tours led by knowledgeable wranglers familiar with local history and natural features. The ranch provides a genuine western atmosphere with well-trained horses suitable for families and experienced riders alike.
13. Zion Tubing
REFRESHING RIVER FLOATS
Zion Tubing provides relaxing float trips down the Virgin River during the warmer months. Visitors can cool off while gently drifting past scenic sandstone formations and enjoying the peaceful desert riparian environment. The company offers tube rentals, transportation to launch points, and guidance on current river conditions for a safe and enjoyable experience.
14. Buffalo Trails Trading Company
AUTHENTIC SOUTHWEST SOUVENIRS
Buffalo Trails Trading Company specializes in unique southwestern gifts, Native American crafts, and local artisan products. The shop features a carefully curated selection of jewelry, pottery, textiles, and artwork representing the cultural heritage of the region. Visitors appreciate the authentic merchandise and knowledgeable staff who provide context about the craftsmanship and significance of their products.
15. Sand Hollow State Park
RED SAND RECREATION AREA
Sand Hollow State Park features a stunning reservoir with warm blue waters contrasting dramatically against red sand beaches and sandstone landscape. The park offers diverse recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, swimming, and camping along its 15 miles of shoreline. Off-highway vehicle enthusiasts particularly enjoy the 6,000 acres of sand dunes that provide an exciting playground for ATV and dirt bike riding.