SOUTHERN UTAH — Hikers will find no shortage of breathtaking views and geological marvels on the trails around St. George. As spectacular as the state and national parks are, the area is also teeming with special places just a little bit off the beaten path.
In this episode of “Discover the Desert,” presented by Findlay Subaru St. George, host Sondy Doyle jumped in a new Subaru Ascent to explore one of the most colorful destinations in “Color Country,” the epic Candy Cliffs.
Take a bite out of Southern Utah’s gorgeous Candy Cliffs in this episode of “Discover the Desert” in the media player above.
After parking at the Yant Flat Trailhead, Doyle embarked on the Yant Flats Trail. This 5.3-mile loop gains just 800 feet of elevation and is located within the Dixie National Forest, which means leashed dogs are allowed. All hikers must stay on the marked trail as it winds through the pinyon pines until reaching the start of the Candy Cliffs.
The slightly higher elevation of the Yant Flat area allows wildflowers to bloom later into the spring and even the early summer. Doyle spotted firecracker penstemons and banana yucca blooms, the petals of which are edible and taste like cucumber!
The Candy Cliffs are one of the St. George area’s hidden gems. With the Pine Valley Mountains in the background and sweeping views of swirling sandstone formations everywhere you look, it’s definitely a must-do hike. Older kids will enjoy scrambling around on the rocks, where you can essentially choose your own adventure.
“Wow!” Doyle said. “Now that’s some eye candy.”
Click here for directions to the Candy Cliffs and Yant Flat hike. As always, remember to take plenty of water, protect yourself from the sun and enjoy public lands responsibly.
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