Anasazi Trail to Red Reef East Loop

The Anasazi Trail is a short historical desert hike near St. George, Utah, that leads right out from the Red Cliffs Campground. The sandy trail is quintessential red rock desert hiking. Small heads of cacti line the juniper and cottonwood trees, and sandstone cliffs stand in the distance. The trail leads to the Red Cliffs Archaeological Site, which houses a decent sized ruin of Pueblo homes and granaries. The ruins date back between 900 and 1200 C.E. There are informational signs to help teach you a bit about the culture and the people that inhabited the area. The trail here is not very long, however, so hiking to the dinosaur tracks along Red Reef East is a great idea. As you head back the way you came along the Anasazi Trail you will see a clearly marked trail sign for Metate Trail at the bottom of the hill. This is a short connector to get to Red Reef East and the dinosaur tracks. After just a short distance you will see a Red Reef East trail marker, and soon you will see a sign indicating the tracks. They are located just a bit down a wash on some former clay that has since become solid rock. The trail continues to loop around toward the northwest and the campground. Dogs are allowed on leash, but bring lots of water for them. There are water spouts at the picnic area. Watch out for hot summer temps; the spring and fall are no doubt the best time to enjoy southern Utah. There is a $5 day use fee for parking at the campground if you are not already camping there, so bring some cash! If you have time, be sure to check out the Red Cliffs Nature Trail (not to be confused with Red Reef East).