The Resorts Closed Early This Year… What Do We Do Now?

Time to go camping.

When winter wraps up a little sooner than expected in Park City, there is always that in-between moment. Skis are put away, but summer has not quite arrived. It is the perfect window to pivot… and head south.

And if there is one place that truly delivers, it is Southern Utah.

Escalante: Where Camping Becomes the Experience

Set within the vast landscape of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, Escalante feels untouched in a way that is hard to find anymore. Nearly 1.8 million acres of protected land stretch across canyons, cliffs, and desert terrain, creating one of the most expansive and rugged outdoor playgrounds in the country. 

Camping here is not just about setting up a tent. It is about fully unplugging.

Mornings start with crisp desert air and coffee as the sun rises over the cliffs. Days are spent exploring some of the most unique hikes in Utah:

• Devils Garden – a surreal landscape of arches and hoodoos with no defined trail, encouraging true exploration 
• Fortymile Gulch & Willow Gulch – classic slot canyon hiking with water, towering walls, and adventure around every corner 
• Little Death Hollow – one of the most iconic narrow canyon hikes, perfect for those wanting a deeper backcountry experience 

Whether you are hiking through slot canyons, wandering along the Escalante River, or simply letting kids run free, there is a sense of freedom here that feels rare.

And then there are the nights.

No city lights. No noise. Just a campfire, good conversation, and a sky full of stars.

Surprisingly Great Dining… Even in the Middle of Nowhere

What makes Escalante even more special is that after a full day of hiking, you can actually have a great meal.

Local favorites include:

• Escalante Outfitters Cafe – a go-to for pizza, craft beer, and a relaxed post-hike atmosphere, widely considered a staple in town 
• Kiva Koffeehouse – perched along Scenic Byway 12 with sweeping views, known for coffee, breakfast, and light fare 
• Hell’s Backbone Grill – a destination dining experience nearby, featuring farm-to-table cuisine that has earned national recognition and James Beard nominations 

It is that balance of rugged adventure and unexpectedly good food that makes Escalante such a draw.

Not a Camper? Arcadia Is the Answer

If sleeping in a tent is not your version of a getaway, you can still get the same sunshine and red rock backdrop… just with a bit more comfort.

Located in St. George, Arcadia Vacation Resort offers a completely different way to experience Southern Utah.

This is where ease meets fun.

Days here revolve around pools, pickleball, and effortless family time. It is designed for gathering, relaxing, and enjoying the warm desert climate without sacrificing comfort.

Top Hikes + Dining Near St. George

While Arcadia delivers the resort lifestyle, the surrounding area offers incredible outdoor access and a growing food scene.

Best Hikes

• Snow Canyon State Park – miles of trails through lava flows and red rock landscapes, one of the most underrated hiking areas in Utah 
• Red Cliffs Desert Reserve – rolling sandstone, wildlife, and quieter trails for exploring
• Pioneer Park – quick, accessible hikes with panoramic views, perfect for families

Dining Worth Experiencing

• Painted Pony – elevated Southwestern cuisine and one of the most well-known dining experiences in the area 
• Wood Ash Rye – chef-driven, seasonal menus with a refined yet approachable feel 
• Cliffside Restaurant – dining with a view, offering a relaxed but memorable experience overlooking the desert landscape 

The Best Part About Living Here

That is what makes Park City so unique.

Within a few hours, you can completely change your environment.

You can be off-grid in Escalante, hiking through canyons and sleeping under the stars… or you can be poolside in St. George, fully relaxed with every amenity at your fingertips.

It does not have to be one or the other. You can do both.

If you are exploring ownership opportunities in Southern Utah, especially in resort-style communities like Arcadia, I am always happy to share insight on what I am seeing and where I think the opportunities are.

And if you want a few Escalante camping spots that are worth the drive… you know where to find me.

Julie Snyder is a top Park City real estate agent and founder of Inhabit Park City, specializing in luxury homes, land, and lifestyle-driven properties. As a leading agent at Summit Sotheby’s International Realty, she has closed over $300 million in transactions and is known for her strategic pricing, strong negotiation skills, and high-touch client experience.

Julie combines deep local knowledge of Park City’s neighborhoods, schools, and outdoor lifestyle with a data-driven approach to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions. From legacy estates to full-time family homes, she guides clients through every step of the process with clarity, discretion, and results.