10 Adventure-Packed Things to Do in St. George

(That Aren’t Just Hiking)

When most people think of St. George, Utah, they picture the towering cliffs of Zion National Park, the lava flows of Snow Canyon, or the endless desert trails calling hikers and bikers from around the world. And while the red rock playgrounds around here deserve the hype, let’s be real—sometimes you’re looking for something a little different. Maybe it’s 105 degrees and you’re melting faster than your trail snacks, maybe your legs are fried from Angels Landing, or perhaps you’re wrangling kids who want adventure without another six-mile trek. Good news: St. George has a whole lot more to offer.

Here are 10 adventure-packed things to do in St. George when you’re ready to mix it up:

1. Climb at Contact Climbing Gym (The Indoor Adventure Hub)

When it’s blazing hot outside or you just want a fresh challenge, head to Contact Climbing Gym. This isn’t your average gym—it’s a full-on climbing community right in the heart of St. George. Whether you’re brand new to climbing or a seasoned boulderer, there’s something for you: ropes, bouldering walls, training areas, and even yoga. Plus, it’s the perfect way to keep the adventure alive when Zion is crowded, rainy, or closed. Pro tip: bring the whole family. The gym offers options for kids and adults, making it one of the rare adrenaline activities in town that’s enjoyable for everyone.

2. Explore Snow Canyon State Park

Yes, this one’s still hiking-adjacent, but Snow Canyon is worth it. Think petrified dunes, lava tubes, and easy trails with massive views. It’s like Zion’s quieter, underrated sibling—and you can even add in sandboarding down the dunes if you want something more adventurous.

3. Take an ATV Tour Through the Sand Dunes

Sometimes walking just isn’t fast enough. St. George is surrounded by rolling sand dunes, and local ATV tours will have you blasting through them Mad Max–style. It’s one of the best ways to experience the desert without roasting on a long hike.

4. Go Mountain Biking on Gooseberry Mesa

This is bucket-list level for mountain bikers. Slickrock trails with jaw-dropping views of Zion in the distance. Don’t worry if you’re new to biking—there are easier loops around town, too. Rentals are available everywhere, so you don’t need to haul your own gear.

5. Cool Off at Sand Hollow Reservoir

Swap the desert dust for water. Sand Hollow is the spot for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and cliff jumping. Rent a jet ski if you’re feeling wild, or just float and soak in the desert backdrop.

6. Horseback Ride Through Red Rock Country

Channel your inner cowboy and saddle up. Guided horseback tours around Snow Canyon or Sand Hollow give you a slower-paced—but no less adventurous—way to explore the desert scenery.

7. Wander Through Historic Downtown St. George

Adventure doesn’t always have to mean scaling cliffs. Downtown St. George is packed with pioneer history, murals, quirky shops, and plenty of good eats. It’s a perfect “active rest” day activity after climbing or biking.

8. Go Canyoneering in Slot Canyons

If you’ve ever wanted to rappel down a sandstone wall or squeeze through a glowing orange slot canyon, this is your shot. Guided canyoneering tours are popular around St. George and are a thrill-seeker’s dream.

9. Try Golfing in the Desert (Yes, Really)

Golf might not sound like an adventure—until you play on courses carved into the red rocks. Even if you’re not a golfer, the landscapes alone make it worth trying.

10. Stargaze in the Desert Night Sky

The adventure doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. St. George’s desert skies are insanely clear, making it one of the best places in Utah for stargazing. Head out a little way from town, lie back, and take in the Milky Way.

Why Contact Climbing Should Be On Your St. George Bucket List

Here’s the thing: St. George is packed with outdoor adventure, but not every adventure works for every day. Climbing at Contact is your ace-in-the-hole when it’s scorching, stormy, or you just want to try something new. Plus, it’s one of the few places in town where families, friends, and solo travelers can all have fun together—no matter your fitness level.

So next time you’re in St. George, don’t just tick off Zion and call it good. Mix it up. Find adventure indoors, outdoors, on wheels, on water, and even in the stars. And when you need a cool, welcoming, adrenaline-fueled place to land? Contact Climbing Gym is waiting.