Hike to the vortex at Bowl of Fire

Itinerary tips

• 1Plan for a 2-3 hour round-trip excursion to allow ample time for photography and exploring the sandstone bowls.
• 2Download an offline GPS map beforehand as the trail is unmarked and follows a series of desert cairns that can be easy to miss.
• 3Wear shoes with excellent grip, such as approach shoes or hiking boots, to safely navigate the steep, slickrock incline.
• 4Carry at least two liters of water and salty snacks, as there is absolutely no shade along the exposed volcanic and sandstone path.
• 5Access the trailhead off Highway 91 north of St. George; look for a small, gravel pull-out area about 2.5 miles past the Gunlock turnoff.
• 6Visit during a weekday morning to have the natural swirling formations entirely to yourself before the local afternoon hikers arrive.