Virgin River Gorge

[satillayakker]

Ok, so I am rapidly approaching my trip with the family to AZ. We know for the most part where we are going to be going, a few days here, a few days there..... We are going to stay a few days at the campground in the Virgin River Gorge. I noticed there are two hikes listed there, but no descriptions or photosets. Anyone hiked there? Anyone explored the area? Any kind of info on it would greatly appreciated.

[autumnstars]

Never have camped there, but I have a dim memory of stopping there and wandering around a bit.
One of the trails (Virgin River Gorge Nature Trail) is short with interpretive material of geology, history, etc. I think it's even paved.
The other trail (Sullivan Canyon Trail) is really more of a route/trail, something like 15 or 20 miles one way. From the Virgin River Gorge, it would be almost 100% climbing. Traverses up out of the gorge to the ridgeline and (almost? all the way?) to Mt Bangs. I haven't been on it, though, so not sure how steep or route-finding needed.
You might try calling the BLM station in St George at (435) 688-3200 : they should have a better idea.

Actually, this is starting to sound like a fun exploration. ;)

[autumnstars]

Inspired by this question, we went up to the Virgin River Gorge for our day off on Monday.

The Nature Trail is short and paved, as I thought, but it has interpretive signs that would make for a good all-family hike. Suitable for even the most beginning hiker.
We also checked out part of the Sullivan Canyon Trail (see http://hikearizona.com/trip=95953) and that can be as long as you want it to be. You could just do the part where you hike along the river, or as far as you like up Sullivan Canyon. In Sullivan Canyon, you start out in a narrow gorge that gets increasingly wide as you gain elevation. Interesting rock formations and a surprising amount of desert willow shade. Nothing out-of-control steep, just steady elevation gain.

Right below the campground, you can also just play in/near the Virgin River.

[satillayakker]

Thanks for the post! I had a feeling the "interpretive" trail would be paved. I am sure we will do that one for a brief stroll. The river and Sullivan Canyon sound like it may be worth the stay up there.

[autumnstars]

Realistically, if you enjoy off-trail hiking and don't care much about reaching a particular destination, you could pretty much take off as you desired from the campground. Just keep a good idea where you crossed the Virgin River if you go that direction, since some spots appeared extremely questionable to cross.

If you prefer a destination, the hike to Shivwits Arch (http://hikearizona.com/decoder=656) sounds fun, although probably not suitable for kids due to the exposure. You would just need to drive up the interstate a ways.

Have fun!