Scramble the Vortex at Sand Cove
HikingModerateSpringYear-roundWinter
Hike to a bizarrely perfect circular bowl eroded into the sandstone, offering one of the most unique photo ops in the Lower Gunlock area.
Itinerary tips
- 1Plan for approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete the 2.3-mile round-trip trek and spend time exploring the bowl.
- 2Wear shoes with high-friction rubber soles, such as approach shoes, to safely navigate the steep and smooth sandstone inclines.
- 3Download an offline GPS map before leaving St. George, as the trail across the slickrock is marked only by intermittent rock cairns.
- 4Park at the designated Lower Gunlock Reservoir trailhead and ensure you pay the small day-use fee at the self-service kiosk.
- 5Carry at least two liters of water even in winter, as the exposed sandstone reflects intense heat with zero shade available.
- 6Look for the smaller 'mini-vortex' formations nearby once you reach the main bowl for additional photography angles.
More in St. George & Greater Zion
Hike the Narrows in Zion National Park
September offers the ideal balance of warm water and lower flash flood risk for wading through the Virgin River between thousand-foot canyon walls.
HikingHike the Scout Lookout Trail
A steep switchback climb offering the most iconic panoramic views of Zion Canyon without the technical requirement of the final Angels Landing spine.
HikingHike the Kanarra Falls Slot Canyon
Walk through water to reach a photogenic waterfall framed by narrow canyon walls and a rustic wooden ladder climb.
HikingClimb the Scout Lookout via Walter's Wiggles
Ascend 21 steep switchbacks to a spectacular vantage point overlooking the Zion Canyon floor, a perfect alternative to the permit-only Angels Landing.
Hiking
