St. George is gearing up for the exciting return of the Dragon’s Tail Stair Climb Challenge this January, inviting locals to conquer the famous Tech Ridge Staircase through a series of intense races.

Runners can tackle the 5K, 1K, Sprint, or Endurance events, each demanding resilience and spirit as participants race up the 333-step landmark.

The diverse courses wind through the mesa’s trails, with the toughest finishing stretch forcing athletes to ascend the iconic stairs towering 171 feet above the city.

Special honors await the fastest racers, while the “Dragon’s Tail Slayer Challenge” rewards those daring enough to complete all three categories.

Fitness fans have flocked to the Tech Ridge area since the staircase’s 2024 debut, drawn by both the challenging climb and sweeping views.

Ongoing development in Tech Ridge includes new businesses, a container park, and a 199-unit apartment complex, cementing its place as a local hub for ambition and community.

"Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it." - Charles R. Swindoll

Southern Utah continues to feel the impact of one woman’s lifelong dedication to community service.

For decades, her passion has driven her to uplift neighbors, organize events, and champion local initiatives.

Her leadership proved essential to the Kanab Women's Forum’s 25th anniversary celebration in 2025, strengthening a tradition that empowers women through connection and growth.

Beyond this, she is a vital force within the Southern Utah Ladies Society (SULS), consistently steering fundraisers and volunteer programs.

Her efforts included planning the 2025 Beer, Brats, & Bunco Oktoberfest, supporting The Sharing Place.

She also championed health causes at the Turn On Your HeartLight Life Run, raising funds for Annie’s Stone and Helping Babies Breathe.

Honored at the 2024 Women & Business Conference in Salt Lake City, her creativity and compassion inspire others to serve and strengthen their community.

Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants to St George, Utah?

In case he got a hole-in-one!

GIGI Gelati – Authentic Italian gelato (Ice-cream, dessert) made fresh daily in St. George, Utah. 24 handcrafted flavors with vegan and gluten-free options. Happiness served one scoop at a time.

• St George, Utah has been nicknamed "Utah's Dixie" due to its warm climate and fertile land, reminiscent of the southern United States.

• The city is home to the St George Dinosaur Discovery Site, where over 1,500 fossilized dinosaur tracks have been found.

Utah is investing over $735,000 to boost outdoor education for youth statewide, with a special spotlight on Southern Utah programs.

The funds aim to connect children ages 6 to 18 with hands-on outdoor experiences across Utah’s diverse landscapes, nurturing stewardship and environmental awareness.

Zion National Park Forever Project earned $15,000 for its Zion Youth Stewards initiative in Washington County, focusing on teaching young people to protect natural resources.

Moab’s BEACON Afterschool Program also received $15,000 to grow hiking clubs and nature-based learning throughout Grand County schools, while Science Moab’s School to Science program secured more than $14,000 for immersive field trips.

With $11,000 awarded, the Canyonlands Field Institute will make summer outdoor camps more accessible for local kids, emphasizing skill-building and appreciation for local landscapes.

These efforts are part of the UCORE program, supporting over 23,000 Utah youth statewide and solidifying Utah’s commitment to active, nature-based education for all.

Q: What are some must-visit attractions in St George, Utah?

A: Some must-visit attractions in St George include Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and the St George Dinosaur Discovery Site.

Q: Is St George, Utah a good place to retire?

A: St George is often considered a great place to retire due to its mild climate, outdoor recreation options, and lower cost of living compared to other retirement destinations.

Southern Utah comes alive January 16–17, 2026, as the Up & Away Hot Air Balloon Festival returns to Washington at Staheli Family Farm.

Each morning, around 30 brilliant hot air balloons rise over breathtaking desert landscapes, turning the sky into a vibrant canvas.

Early risers can enjoy tethered balloon rides from 8–10 AM for $30, with tickets available online and long lines expected.

Over 100 vendors and food trucks fill the grounds, complemented by local artisans offering unique crafts and shopping.

The Rising Star Talent Competition invites local talent to compete for cash prizes, while car lovers flock to the Saturday Classic Car Show for a dazzling display of vintage vehicles.

Evenings feature the magical Balloon Glow, bathing Staheli Farm in luminescent color.

Admission and parking are free, making this festival a must-see kickoff to the new year for families and locals alike.

Hike the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve at sunrise for the most breathtaking views.

Ivins-based artist Kimberly Beck has earned national recognition, winning the Outstanding Achievement in Oil Painting award from American Women Artists for her striking painting, “Jenny and Tom.”

Inspired by a close encounter with turkeys at Maine’s Gisland Farm Audubon Center, Beck explored the birds’ geometry and vibrant patterns through her 30-by-30-inch canvas.

Choosing a large format, she showcased the animals’ commanding presence and intricate feather displays, dedicating about three months to complete the piece.

The award was announced during the “A Vision of Nature: American Women Artists” exhibition at the National Sporting Library & Museum in Virginia, where Beck’s painting was also chosen as the banner image for the show.

As a member since 2017, Beck has achieved “signature” status, celebrating her ongoing impact in advancing the visibility of women in fine art.

Visit the Rosenbruch Wildlife Museum to see over 300 meticulously crafted animal displays and learn about conservation efforts in the area.