Scramble the Vortex Trail
Hike to a unique geological bowl formation (also known as The Bowl) in the Sand Cove area, featuring swirling Navajo sandstone and desert vistas.
Itinerary tips
- 1Plan for approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete the 2.3-mile round trip, allowing extra time for photography inside the sandstone bowl.
- 2Download an offline GPS map before leaving St. George, as the trail across the slickrock is marked only by cairns and cell service is spotty.
- 3Wear approach shoes or hiking boots with high-friction rubber soles to maintain grip on the steep Navajo sandstone inclines.
- 4Bring at least two liters of water and salty snacks, as there is absolutely no shade once you leave the trailhead area.
- 5Access the trailhead via the Lower Sand Cove Road; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended but usually not required unless recent rains have washed out the gravel.
- 6Look for the 'mini-vortex' formations and moqui marbles along the ridges adjacent to the main bowl for additional exploration.
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 to Kanarra Falls
A photogenic water hike involving a metal ladder ascent next to a gushing waterfall tucked inside a narrow, vibrant slot canyon.
HikingHike Angels Landing in Zion
Navigate the iconic, thrilling trail with fixed chains and breathtaking panoramic views of Zion Canyon. This is a strenuous hike not for the faint of heart, but the reward is unforgettable.
Adventure