Southern Utah, with its stunning red rock landscapes, towering cliffs, and vast desert vistas, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re planning a trip to explore the majestic beauty of Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, or any of the other natural wonders in the region, finding the best places to stay in Southern Utah will make your trip unforgettable. Keep reading to find out how we stayed in Southern Utah for a whole month, free of cost.

Why Moab is One of the Best Places to Stay in Southern Utah

Moab, Utah, nestled amidst the striking red rock formations of southeastern Utah, is an adventurer’s paradise and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Renowned for its rugged terrain, breathtaking landscapes, and abundance of outdoor activities, Moab offers a unique and exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages and interests.

One of the primary draws of Moab is its proximity to two iconic national parks: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Arches National Park is famous for its stunning natural arches, rock formations, and expansive desert vistas. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes to iconic landmarks such as Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock, and Landscape Arch, or take a scenic drive along the park’s breathtaking viewpoints.

Canyonlands National Park, characterized by its deep canyons, towering mesas, and winding rivers, offers a rugged and remote wilderness to explore. Adventure seekers can embark on thrilling activities such as whitewater rafting along the Colorado River, backpacking through the park’s backcountry trails, or marveling at the panoramic views from Island in the Sky and Needles districts.

In addition to its national parks, Moab boasts a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities, including mountain biking, rock climbing, off-roading, and hiking. The area is home to world-class mountain biking trails such as the Slickrock Bike Trail and the Whole Enchilada, attracting cyclists from around the globe seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures amidst stunning desert scenery.

Beyond its outdoor attractions, Moab offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries, museums, and local festivals celebrating the area’s rich history and heritage. Visitors can explore Moab’s charming downtown area, browse eclectic shops, galleries, and restaurants, or attend cultural events such as the Moab Arts Festival and Moab Music Festival.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, awe-inspiring natural wonders, or a unique cultural experience, Moab, Utah, offers a one-of-a-kind destination that will leave you captivated and inspired by the beauty of the desert landscape.

Why St. George is One of the Best Places to Stay in Southern Utah

St. George, Utah, located in the southwestern corner of the state, is a vibrant and dynamic city known for its year-round sunshine, stunning red rock scenery, and wealth of recreational opportunities. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, St. George offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

One of the main reasons to visit St. George is its proximity to several breathtaking natural wonders, including Snow Canyon State Park, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, and Zion National Park. Snow Canyon State Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs, lava fields, and scenic hiking trails, offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s geological history and stunning desert landscapes.

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, renowned for its colorful sandstone cliffs, rugged canyons, and unique desert wildlife, provides opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing amidst spectacular scenery. Additionally, Zion National Park, located just a short drive from St. George, beckons visitors with its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and emerald-green rivers, offering world-class hiking, backpacking, and photography opportunities.

In addition to its outdoor attractions, St. George boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing the region’s rich history and heritage. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Brigham Young Winter Home and Pioneer Museum, attend performances at the Tuacahn Center for the Arts, or stroll through the vibrant downtown area, with its charming shops, eateries, and art galleries.

St. George is also a golfer’s paradise, with several world-class golf courses nestled amidst stunning desert landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice golfer, you’ll find challenging courses and breathtaking scenery that will enhance your golfing experience.

With its perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities, St. George, Utah, offers a captivating destination for travelers seeking to explore the beauty and diversity of the American Southwest. Whether you’re hiking through red rock canyons, teeing off on a championship golf course, or immersing yourself in the region’s rich history and culture, St. George promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated.

Why We Chose to Stay in St. George for a Month 

For the month of December, we decided to stay and ride in St. George, just outside of Zion National Park, and it turned out to be the perfect time to stay there. No crowds and perfect mountain biking weather. It would have been cold if we were camping, but luckily, we were able to stay entirely in other people’s beautiful homes, and hang with a cat or two. 

That’s right, we were able to stay in St. George for free, for the entire month of December! The homes we stayed in had such amazing owners with lovable cats, that we even came back to stay again at the same home twice. 

Although we have not yet stay in Moab using Trusted House Sitters, we did see many amazing listings for both cat and dog sitting in Moab, and are excited to visit come spring.