Explore Sandstone Mountain Trail: A Red Rock Adventure Near St. George

Red sandstone mountains are anything but rare in southwest Utah, but the opportunity to explore them up close is something special.

 

The Sandstone Mountain Trail, located in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve just south of Leeds, offers hikers the chance to circle the base and cross over the mountain, delivering spectacular views and a rewarding challenge.

 

The Sandstone Mountain Trail is rated strenuous, with rocky sections, several long deep sand areas, and significant elevation changes over steep ridges. The trail lacks signage after the initial trailhead marker, adding an element of navigation challenge. Hikers should allocate approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours for the complete hike at a leisurely pace.

 

The trailhead sits at approximately 3,110 feet elevation, with a 550-foot elevation change from the lowest to highest point. This is not a family-friendly trail for young children or those without solid hiking fitness, but for experienced hikers, the views are worth the effort.

 

To reach the trailhead, take Interstate 15 Exit 22 onto Old Highway 91 and continue north approximately 2.2 miles through Leeds. Turn right (south) onto unsigned Babylon Road (also known as 900 North Road), just past the sign for the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.

 

At 2.7 miles, go left (east) at the signed intersection toward the Sand Cove and Sandstone Mountain trailheads. The final 0.4 miles to the Sandstone Mountain Trailhead requires a high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle due to rough conditions. Alternatively, hikers can park at the Sand Cove Trailhead and walk approximately 0.3 miles to the Sandstone Mountain Trailhead.

 

The Red Cliffs Desert Reserve encompasses 62,000 acres of scenic wildlife habitat set aside in 1996 to protect the desert tortoise and other sensitive species. The reserve contains more than 130 miles of shared-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Visitors are reminded to stay on designated trails and minimize their impact on this sensitive ecosystem.

 

For St. George residents and visitors seeking a challenging hike with rewarding views of the region’s iconic red rock formations, Sandstone Mountain Trail delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience.