Gooseberry Mesa is about a 60-minute drive from downtown St. George, Utah. Take UT-9 E towards Hurricane, then turn north onto UT-59 N. Look for signs directing you to Gooseberry Mesa. The roads can be rough, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended, though many visitors manage with standard cars.

While the main roads are generally passable for most vehicles, some of the more remote camping spots or trailheads might require a higher clearance vehicle or 4WD. OHV trails are also present in the area.

The closest towns are Hurricane and Apple Valley, Utah. These towns offer amenities like gas stations, grocery stores, and lodging if needed.

The area is popular for OHV riding, with various trails. It's best to consult local OHV maps or resources for specific trail designations and conditions, as they can change.

GPS can be helpful, but cell service is spotty. It's highly recommended to download offline maps of the area before you go to ensure you can navigate effectively.

Gooseberry Mesa is a National Recreation Trail and generally does not have an entrance fee for day use or primitive camping. However, always check for any posted notices or local regulations.

Gooseberry Mesa is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access to certain areas or trails might be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter.

Primitive camping is generally allowed without a permit, but spots are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. It's wise to confirm current regulations with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) if you plan an extended stay.

No specific passes are required for mountain biking on the public trails at Gooseberry Mesa. Standard trail etiquette and respect for the environment are expected.

Primitive camping at Gooseberry Mesa is typically first-come, first-served, and cannot be booked in advance. Arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot.

Gooseberry Mesa is famous for its technical slickrock trails. Popular options include the North Rim Trail for stunning views, the White Trail for an easier, fun ride with a great view, and the challenging practice loop. Many riders also explore the Hurricane Rim area for flowing singletrack. +1

Yes, Gooseberry Mesa offers excellent hiking opportunities with incredible panoramic views, including vistas of Zion National Park. The Silver Rim trail is a notable hiking option.

The terrain is predominantly slickrock, with some sandy sections and desert scrub. It's known for its technical challenges, offering great climbing and downhill sections.

Yes, there is a bathroom at the Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trailhead. However, visitors often report that toilet paper is not consistently provided, so it's advisable to bring your own.

Wear sturdy, grippy shoes suitable for slickrock. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for warm weather. Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, is essential.

The northern rim offers spectacular panoramic views, especially at sunrise, with Zion National Park in the distance. The unique slickrock formations themselves make for dramatic landscape photography.

Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Gooseberry Mesa is an excellent spot for astrophotography, offering clear views of the night sky.

Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography, casting long shadows and warm hues across the slickrock. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.

Drone usage is subject to federal regulations and local restrictions. Always check with the relevant authorities (e.g., BLM) regarding drone operation in recreation areas.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions like sunrise or astrophotography.