Rally Review: Magnificent Southern Utah, Scenic Wonderland

The rugged wilderness and sheer beauty of Southern Utah is the perfect place to slow down and fully embrace adventure. Whether simply admiring the landscape from the unique scenic byways or traversing the awe-inspiring canyons on foot, beauty and outdoor opportunities are everywhere.

Not only was McArthur’s Temple View RV Resort in St. George the ideal rally home base, it didn’t take long for its accommodating staff to feel like family. In addition to Ira McArthur, his family and staff catering to every onsite need, Ira and wife Jen took caretaking one step further, leading attendees on a casual trail walk in Snow Canyon State Park. Highlights of the trail were towering sandstone bluffs dressed in crimson and alabaster, and Johnson Canyon Arch, magnificent in its simplistic grandeur.

There were other natural wonders attendees shared during the week, through private tours in Zion National Park provided by Zion National Park Forever Project and Zion Guru guides. From hiking the Watchman Trail — with breathtaking views of the valley beneath — to exploring the Riverside Walk and Pa’rus Trails, taking a private Zion Canyon Tram Tour and off-roading outside the park with Zion Jeep Tours, stunning backdrops provided picture perfect moments at every turn.

Restaurants quickly became destinations themselves with the likes of the remarkable juniper-brined porkchop at the Painted Pony, cajun brussel sprouts and green curry wild mahi at Xetava Gardens Café, and delicious guacamole, chile relleno and smoked red chile rubbed prime rib at Rosita’s Santa Fe Kitchen.

In addition to indulging in natural beauty and impressive culinary creations, there was art. From an afternoon spent in intimate fine-art galleries at Kayenta Art Village to a dazzling night at Tuacahn Amphitheatre, nicknamed “Broadway of the Desert,” creativity abounded. Attendees were in awe with the Disney tribute performance of “When You Wish”: For two hours melodic voices filled the air, dwarves and pirates danced, Mary Poppins descended from the sky on her umbrella, and other spectacular sights and sounds took place.

It’s no wonder that the natural phenomenon of its community and its sights attract people from around the globe to experience the expansive, largely untouched and absolute beauty of Southern Utah.