Green Valley Trail Loop

Starting your adventure near Washington County, Utah, the Green Valley Trail Loop offers a captivating 24 km (approximately 15 miles) journey with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (about 1,312 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it accessible for moderately experienced hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Green Valley Spa and Resort, located at 1871 W Canyon View Dr, St. George, UT 84770. From there, it's a short drive to the trailhead. For those using public transport, the St. George Shuttle offers services from various locations, and you can get off at the Green Valley Spa stop. From there, it's a brief walk to the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The Green Valley Trail Loop is a well-marked path that takes you through diverse landscapes, including desert terrain, rocky outcrops, and lush valleys. The trail is known for its stunning vistas, particularly in the spring and fall when the weather is most favorable.

### Key Landmarks and Sections

#### Desert Terrain The initial part of the trail takes you through a classic Utah desert landscape. Here, you'll encounter a variety of cacti and desert flora. Keep an eye out for the prickly pear cactus and the vibrant desert marigold. This section is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging parts ahead.

#### Rocky Outcrops Around the 8 km (5-mile) mark, you'll start to ascend towards the rocky outcrops. This section offers a moderate climb with an elevation gain of about 150 meters (492 feet). The rocks here are part of the Navajo Sandstone formation, which dates back to the Jurassic period. These outcrops provide excellent vantage points for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

#### Lush Valleys As you descend from the rocky outcrops, you'll enter a series of lush valleys. These areas are often shaded and feature a variety of plant life, including juniper and pinyon pine trees. This section is particularly beautiful in the spring when wildflowers are in bloom. The valleys also provide a habitat for local wildlife, such as mule deer and various bird species.

### Historical Significance The region around the Green Valley Trail Loop has a rich history. It was originally inhabited by the Ancestral Puebloans, also known as the Anasazi, who left behind petroglyphs and other archaeological artifacts. As you hike, you may come across some of these ancient markings, particularly near the rocky outcrops. These petroglyphs offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who once called this area home.

### Navigation and Safety Given the trail's moderate difficulty, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to keep track of your progress and ensure you stay on the correct path. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable, especially in the more remote sections.

### Wildlife and Flora The trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including lizards, snakes, and birds of prey. While encounters with larger animals like mountain lions are rare, it's always good to stay alert. The flora varies significantly depending on the elevation and season, offering a constantly changing landscape that keeps the hike interesting.

### Final Stretch The last part of the loop brings you back through a series of gentle slopes and flat terrain, making for a relaxing end to your hike. This section is a great opportunity to reflect on the diverse landscapes and historical significance you've encountered along the way.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or someone looking to explore the natural beauty of Utah, the Green Valley Trail Loop offers a rewarding experience filled with stunning views, historical landmarks, and diverse ecosystems.