Virgin River Gorge
A spectacular stretch of I-15 through northwestern Arizona, featuring towering sandstone cliffs and the winding Virgin River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for stops
Virgin River Gorge
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for stops
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A spectacular stretch of I-15 through northwestern Arizona, featuring towering sandstone cliffs and the winding Virgin River.
"One of the best parts of driving on interstate 15 is driving through here. Beautiful scenic drive."
⛽ Fuel Up Beforehand
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank and use restrooms before entering the gorge to avoid issues.
📵 No Cell Service Zone
Expect no cell or internet service. Download offline maps and entertainment for kids.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interstate 15 Scenic Drive
Experience breathtaking mountain views and dramatic canyon walls as you traverse this iconic stretch of highway.
Virgin River Canyon Views
Marvel at the rugged beauty of the canyon, carved by the Virgin River, offering unique geological formations.
Unique Rock Formations
Spot distinctive rock formations and ancient landscapes that tell a story of millions of years of natural artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Drive
Embrace the Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛽ Fuel Up Beforehand
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank and use restrooms before entering the gorge to avoid issues.
📵 No Cell Service Zone
Expect no cell or internet service. Download offline maps and entertainment for kids.
📸 Pull Over Safely
Designated pull-offs offer safe spots for photos. Don't stop on the highway itself.
🚗 Be Prepared for Delays
The two-lane highway can experience pile-ups. Allow extra time for your journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛽ Fuel Up Beforehand
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank and use restrooms before entering the gorge to avoid issues.
📵 No Cell Service Zone
Expect no cell or internet service. Download offline maps and entertainment for kids.
📸 Pull Over Safely
Designated pull-offs offer safe spots for photos. Don't stop on the highway itself.
🚗 Be Prepared for Delays
The two-lane highway can experience pile-ups. Allow extra time for your journey.
🚶♀️ Explore Short Hikes
Consider short hikes to appreciate the unique plants and wildlife up close.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Virgin River Gorge for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic scenic drive along I-15. Many highlight the impressive cliffs and unique geological formations as a major draw. However, some note the lack of services and potential for traffic delays, advising preparedness.
"Spectacular views. Would have never known about it if I hadn't been traveling to Salt Lake."
Chris Priebe
"One of the best parts of driving on interstate 15 is driving through here"
Anthony Robart
"Beautiful scenic drive. The road is much better than it used to be before improvements but honestly I think I liked it better when I was a kid. Some may remember the (joke)chalk outline of a body painted on a rock at one of the steepest and sharpest curves going down towards the river... Awesome."
Jim Cluff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Virgin River Gorge is primarily traversed via Interstate 15 (I-15) between St. George, Utah, and Mesquite, Nevada. This scenic stretch cuts through northwestern Arizona.
The most common way is a scenic drive on I-15. For a more immersive experience, look for designated pull-offs to admire the views and consider short hikes if time permits.
Yes, the Virgin River Gorge is easily accessible by car via Interstate 15. It's a popular route for road trips between Utah and Nevada.
The drive itself through the main gorge section is relatively short, often taking around 30-45 minutes without stops. However, traffic delays can significantly extend this time.
Services are extremely limited within the gorge itself. It's crucial to gas up and use restrooms before entering the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entry fees required to drive through the Virgin River Gorge on Interstate 15. It is a public highway.
There are no entrance fees for driving through the Virgin River Gorge. It is a natural landscape accessible via a public interstate.
The Virgin River Gorge is accessible 24/7 as it is part of Interstate 15. However, visibility and safety can be reduced at night.
Yes, there are designated pull-offs and some trailheads where you can stop and explore. Always be mindful of safety and stay on marked paths.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center directly within the gorge. Information can be found at nearby visitor centers in St. George, Utah, or Mesquite, Nevada.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Many travelers find the entire drive to be a viewpoint! Look for designated pull-offs along I-15 to safely admire the towering cliffs and the Virgin River below. 
Yes, while the primary experience is a scenic drive, there are opportunities for short hikes. The area offers rugged terrain and unique flora.
You might spot various desert wildlife, including birds of prey, reptiles, and small mammals. Keep a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
The drive itself is generally safe, but caution is advised due to the highway nature of I-15. For any stops or hikes, supervise children closely and be aware of the terrain.
Its dramatic geological formations, the contrast of the river against the arid landscape, and its location as a significant natural corridor make it truly unique.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, casting a warm glow on the canyon walls. Midday can be harsh, but still offers impressive scale.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the gorge. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the rock formations.
While the entire drive is photogenic, pull-offs provide safe opportunities. Look for unique rock formations and the winding path of the Virgin River.
Drone regulations vary by location and airspace. Always check current FAA guidelines and local restrictions before flying a drone.
The towering cliffs, the I-15 highway winding through the canyon, the Virgin River, and the unique desert flora are popular subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's essential to prepare for the lack of cell service by downloading offline entertainment and games for children, as they won't have access to their devices. Consider utilizing the designated pull-offs for brief breaks and photo opportunities. These spots allow kids to stretch their legs safely while still being immersed in the impressive scenery.
🏍️ Motorcycle Riders
Riders often describe the experience as breathtaking, with the open road and towering cliffs creating a sense of freedom and adventure. +1It's crucial for motorcyclists to be extra vigilant due to the highway nature of I-15. Be aware of other vehicles, especially larger trucks, and the potential for sudden traffic slowdowns.
Stopping at designated pull-offs allows riders to safely admire the views and capture photos of this spectacular landscape. 🚗 Road Trippers
Travelers often recommend it as a must-see natural wonder. To make the most of your road trip experience, plan your stops wisely. Ensure you have enough fuel and have used facilities before entering the gorge, as services are scarce.
The gorge is a perfect place for a scenic break, offering stunning views that will enhance your overall journey. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Drive on I-15
The road itself is a marvel of engineering, winding through towering sandstone cliffs that have been carved over millennia by the Virgin River. Travelers often describe the drive as awe-inspiring, with sheer rock faces rising hundreds of feet on either side.
It's important to note that this is an active highway, so while the views are spectacular, safety is paramount. Designated pull-offs are available for those who wish to stop and take photos or simply soak in the environment.
Exploring Beyond the Highway
These excursions provide a different perspective on the gorge's rugged beauty. You can appreciate the intricate details of the rock layers, discover hidden alcoves, and perhaps even spot some of the local wildlife that calls this arid landscape home.
For those interested in photography, venturing off the main highway can lead to some incredible shots. The interplay of light and shadow on the canyon walls, the textures of the rock, and the vibrant colors of the desert plants offer endless photographic possibilities.
Always prioritize safety and respect the natural environment when exploring these less-traveled areas. Practicalities for Your Visit
Another critical piece of information is the lack of cell service. Don't expect to make calls, send texts, or access the internet once you're deep within the gorge.
When it comes to experiencing the gorge, remember that it's a highway environment. While the views are stunning, safety is paramount. Utilize designated pull-offs for any stops to take photos or admire the scenery.
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