St. George might be famous for its red rock singletrack, but the paved bike trails here are something special. Whether you’re visiting for a week or you’ve lived here for years, these routes are worth riding. The 3 best paved bike trails in St. George are the Virgin River Trail, the Red Hills Parkway Trail, and the Snow Canyon Parkway. Each one offers something different, and all three are accessible right from town.
Here’s a closer look at each.
1. Virgin River Trail
If you’re looking for an easy, flat ride the whole family can enjoy, this is it. The Virgin River Trail runs roughly 17.6 miles, tracing the Virgin River through St. George from Bloomington up through the Washington area. There’s virtually no climbing. The path is wide, smooth, and well-maintained. You can join it at several access points throughout the city, which makes it incredibly convenient. Kids, cruisers, e-bikes, serious road cyclists, everyone shows up on this trail. On a nice morning, it gets busy fast. We recommend hitting it early if you want a peaceful ride with uninterrupted river views. Fall and spring are especially beautiful out there.
2. Red Hills Parkway Trail
The Red Hills Parkway Trail runs right through the heart of St. George along the base of the red cliffs. It connects to the broader paved trail network, including routes toward Pioneer Park and Snow Canyon. The views are genuinely stunning. You’re riding with towering red sandstone on one side and the city below on the other. There’s some climbing involved, especially if you push north toward the cliffs, so it’s a step up from the Virgin River Trail in terms of effort. It’s still totally manageable for most riders. This one is great for people who want a bit of a workout without heading all the way out to Snow Canyon. Stop at the Red Hills Desert Garden if you’ve never been; it sits right along the trail and makes a great midpoint break.
3. Snow Canyon Parkway
This is the big one. The Snow Canyon Parkway loop is a roughly 18-mile paved route that takes you from St. George’s Bluff Street up through Snow Canyon State Park. It’s one of the most scenic rides in all of Southern Utah. You’ll climb up through lava fields and red rock canyon walls, then descend on a fast, rolling trail back toward town. The climb is real, expect about 1,100 feet of elevation gain on the Snow Canyon side. It’s not for casual riders or little kids. But if you’re comfortable on a bike and want an unforgettable experience, this is the one. Snow Canyon State Park is a world-class destination on two wheels or two feet. Pack water, sunscreen, and make sure your bike is in good shape before heading out.
Tips Before You Ride
A few things worth knowing before you hit any of these trails:
- Carry more water than you think you need. St. George is dry and often warmer than expected.
- All 3 trails are rideable year-round, though summer midday heat can be brutal. Early morning is your best bet from May through September.
- A well-tuned bike makes a big difference, especially on Snow Canyon. If your bike has been sitting in the garage, bring it in for a quick once-over before you go.
Our full trail guide covers dozens of additional routes around the area, including dirt singletrack options for those looking to get off pavement.
Ready to Ride? We Can Help.
Bicycles Unlimited has been St. George’s local bike shop since 1984. Whether you need a new bike, a rental, or a tune-up before hitting the trail, our team knows these routes firsthand. Stop by the shop at 90 South 100 East, or reach out to our team. We’ll point you in the right direction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paved Bike Trails in St. George
Are the paved bike trails in St. George suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Virgin River Trail is one of the most beginner-friendly trails in the area. It’s flat, smooth, and family-friendly with multiple access points throughout the city. The Red Hills Parkway has mild climbing but is still manageable for most new riders. Snow Canyon Parkway is best saved until you’re comfortable with longer climbs and more technical descents.
Do I need to pay to ride the paved bike trails in St. George?
Most of the paved trails in St. George are completely free to access. The Virgin River Trail and Red Hills Parkway Trail cost nothing to ride. The one exception is Snow Canyon Parkway, which passes through Snow Canyon State Park — you’ll pay a small day-use fee at the park entrance. It’s well worth it for the scenery you get in return.
What type of bike do I need for the paved trails in St. George?
Any road bike, hybrid, comfort bike, or e-bike works well on these paved routes. A mountain bike will also get the job done, though you’ll notice the difference in rolling efficiency on longer paved stretches like the Virgin River Trail or Snow Canyon Parkway. If you’re not sure what bike fits your needs, stop in and talk to us.
