Temple Quarry Trail

Starting near Washington County, Utah, the Temple Quarry Trail is an out-and-back trail that spans approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for hikers with some experience.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, located near St. George, Utah. The nearest significant landmark is the Red Cliffs Mall, which is a convenient point to navigate from. Public transport options include local buses that service the St. George area, with stops near the Red Cliffs Mall. From there, you may need to arrange a taxi or rideshare to the trailhead.

Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent, gradually increasing in elevation as you move along. The initial section is relatively easy, allowing you to warm up before tackling the more challenging parts. The path is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track.

Historical Significance One of the most fascinating aspects of the Temple Quarry Trail is its historical significance. The trail was originally used in the late 19th century by Mormon pioneers to quarry stone for the construction of the St. George Temple. As you hike, you'll come across remnants of the old quarrying operations, including chisel marks on the rocks and abandoned tools. These historical artifacts offer a glimpse into the arduous labor that went into building one of the region's most iconic structures.

Landmarks and Points of Interest At approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) into the hike, you'll encounter the first significant landmark: a large, flat rock surface known as the "Quarry Floor." This area provides a panoramic view of the surrounding desert landscape and is an excellent spot for a short break.

Continuing along the trail, around the 2 km (1.2 miles) mark, you'll reach the "Stone Arch," a natural rock formation that resembles an archway. This is another great spot for photos and a brief rest.

Flora and Fauna The Temple Quarry Trail is home to a variety of desert flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for native plants like the Joshua tree, prickly pear cactus, and various species of sagebrush. Wildlife is abundant as well; you might spot lizards, jackrabbits, and even the occasional desert tortoise. Birdwatchers will enjoy the sightings of hawks, ravens, and other desert birds.

Trail Conditions and Safety The trail is mostly composed of packed dirt and loose rocks, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Given the desert environment, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, especially during the hotter months. The trail is exposed with little shade, so sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential.

Navigation and Waypoints While the trail is generally well-marked, having a navigation tool like HiiKER can be invaluable for pinpointing your location and ensuring you stay on the correct path. Key waypoints include the Quarry Floor at 1 km (0.6 miles) and the Stone Arch at 2 km (1.2 miles).

Final Stretch The final stretch of the trail involves a moderate climb, leading to a viewpoint that offers a sweeping vista of the surrounding area. This is the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the desert landscape before making your way back to the trailhead.

By following these guidelines and being well-prepared, you'll be able to fully enjoy the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance that the Temple Quarry Trail has to offer.