Owen's Loop Trail - Image 1
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Owens Loop Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·St. George, United States

A scenic moderate hike through vibrant red rock formations, offering stunning desert vistas and a true Southern Utah experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, beautiful light

CrowdLow
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Owen's Loop Trail - Image 1

Owens Loop Trail

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, beautiful light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic moderate hike through vibrant red rock formations, offering stunning desert vistas and a true Southern Utah experience.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Stunning red rocks and expansive desert views make this a must-do hike for any visitor to St. George!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Sandy and rocky terrain requires good hiking boots. Avoid flimsy shoes to prevent slips and discomfort on the Owens Loop Trail.

💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable

Carry more water than you think you'll need. The desert heat can be intense, and dehydration is a real risk.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Red Rock Formations

Red Rock Formations

Throughout the trail

Marvel at the striking red sandstone cliffs and unique desert landscapes that define this scenic hike.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Higher elevations

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding St. George area and the vast desert expanse from elevated points.

Desert Flora & Fauna

Desert Flora & Fauna

Along the path

Spot resilient desert plants and keep an eye out for local wildlife that calls this arid environment home.

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Trail Conditions & Gear

The Owens Loop Trail is known for its sandy sections and potential for heat. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection like hats and sunscreen is essential for this exposed desert hike.

Best Time to Hike

Avoid the midday sun in summer. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and softer light for photos. Check local weather forecasts for any flash flood warnings, as desert trails can be affected by rain.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temps, beautiful light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

let me know #utah #stgeorge #fyp #friends #fypage
@secret_sneakylink
4.6K likes • 53.8K views

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Sandy and rocky terrain requires good hiking boots. Avoid flimsy shoes to prevent slips and discomfort on the Owens Loop Trail. TikTok

💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable

Carry more water than you think you'll need. The desert heat can be intense, and dehydration is a real risk. TikTok

☀️ Sun Protection Essential

A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are vital. The trail offers little shade, so protect your skin. TikTok

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have offline maps downloaded for navigation on the Owens Loop Trail. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Sandy and rocky terrain requires good hiking boots. Avoid flimsy shoes to prevent slips and discomfort on the Owens Loop Trail. TikTok

💧 Hydration is Non-Negotiable

Carry more water than you think you'll need. The desert heat can be intense, and dehydration is a real risk. TikTok

☀️ Sun Protection Essential

A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are vital. The trail offers little shade, so protect your skin. TikTok

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Ensure you have offline maps downloaded for navigation on the Owens Loop Trail. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Owens Loop Trail for its stunning red rock scenery and rewarding panoramic views, making it a quintessential Southern Utah desert hike. However, hikers should be prepared for intense sun exposure and sandy terrain, emphasizing the need for ample water and proper footwear.

What People Like

Beautiful red rock landscapes
Great panoramic views
Classic desert hike

What People Dislike

Intense sun exposure
Sandy terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Owens Loop Trail is typically accessed from the southern end of St. George. Parking is available near the trailhead. Many visitors use GPS coordinates or follow signs for nearby trailheads. TikTok

Yes, there is usually a designated parking area. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Public transportation options to trailheads in St. George can be limited. It's generally easier to drive or use a ride-sharing service. Reddit

While the trail is generally well-marked, downloading an offline map on your phone is a good precaution, as cell service can be unreliable. Reddit

Currently, there are no entrance fees for the Owens Loop Trail itself. However, always check for any local park or land management updates. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Owens Loop Trail is a public hiking trail and does not require tickets for entry. Access is generally free. TikTok

The trail is open from dawn to dusk. It's best to plan your hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal to avoid the heat and enjoy softer lighting for photography. TikTok

Hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and potential disorientation. Stick to daylight hours. Reddit

Typically, no special permits are required for day hiking on the Owens Loop Trail. Always verify with local authorities if planning extended stays or group events. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Owens Loop Trail is approximately 3-4 miles long and can take 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. TikTok

The Owens Loop Trail is generally considered moderate. It has some sandy sections and elevation changes, but no extreme technical climbing. TikTok

Restroom facilities may be limited or non-existent at some trailheads. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive. Reddit

Dogs are generally allowed on the Owens Loop Trail but must be kept on a leash. Always clean up after your pet. Reddit

Expect stunning red rock formations, desert vegetation, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape. It's a classic Southern Utah desert hike. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the red rocks. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots. TikTok

Higher points along the trail offer panoramic views. Look for overlooks that capture the vastness of the desert and rock formations. TikTok

Experiment with different angles, focus on the textures of the rocks, and try to capture the scale of the landscape with a person in the frame. TikTok

Drone usage regulations vary by location. Check with local land management agencies before flying a drone, as restrictions may apply. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Owens Loop Trail can be a fun adventure for families, but it requires careful planning. The moderate difficulty and sandy sections might be challenging for very young children, so consider carrying them or opting for a shorter out-and-back section. Ensure kids have plenty of water and sun protection. TikTok

Keep the experience engaging by turning it into a scavenger hunt for desert plants or interesting rock shapes. The open spaces allow kids to burn energy, but always keep them within sight due to the trail's exposure and potential for uneven terrain. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Owens Loop Trail offers incredible opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The red rock formations glow beautifully in the soft light, creating dramatic shadows and highlights. TikTok

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive desert vistas and consider a telephoto lens for details in the rock formations or any wildlife you might spot. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light conditions and sharper images. Be mindful of the time to ensure you have enough daylight to complete your hike safely. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Owens Loop Trail

The Owens Loop Trail is a popular moderate hike in St. George, Utah, offering a quintessential desert hiking experience. The trail is approximately 3-4 miles long and can take between 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you pause to admire the scenery or take photos. While generally well-marked, it's always wise to have a map, especially since cell service can be unreliable in the area. Downloading an offline map on your smartphone is a highly recommended precaution. TikTokReddit

The terrain consists of sandy washes, rocky sections, and some moderate inclines. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are essential to navigate these surfaces comfortably and safely. The trail is exposed, meaning there is very little shade, so be prepared for the sun's intensity, particularly during the warmer months. TikTok

Many hikers enjoy the loop in either direction, but some prefer to tackle the inclines earlier in the hike. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations and the vast desert landscape, making it a rewarding experience for nature lovers and photographers alike. TikTok

Best Practices for Desert Hiking

Hiking in a desert environment like the one surrounding the Owens Loop Trail requires specific preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The most critical aspect is hydration. Always carry more water than you think you'll need, as the dry air and sun can dehydrate you quickly. Electrolyte drinks can also be beneficial. TikTok

Sun protection is paramount. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply high-SPF sunscreen liberally. Long-sleeved, light-colored clothing can provide additional protection from the sun's rays. Seek shade whenever possible, though it is scarce on this particular trail. TikTok

Be aware of the weather conditions. Desert temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. Check the forecast before you go, and be mindful of potential flash floods, especially during monsoon season. If you see dark clouds or hear thunder, seek higher ground or a safe shelter immediately. Reddit

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