Sometime, when you’re not quite in the mood for a long hike or bike ride but really want to get outside and see an exquisite scene, load up in the family car and take the spectacular road tour from Central to Pine Valley. Central is located about 25 miles north of Saint George on State Hwy 18. In Central, East Pine Valley Road intersects Hwy 18 and it will take you up and into the Dixie National Forest and Pine Valley Wilderness Area.
For the next 12 miles you will gradually gain about 1,200 feet in elevation. There is much to see along this fantastic stretch of pavement, so take your time and don’t forget to stop and shoot a few photos along the way. You may also want to take a set of binoculars along, because many species of hillside animals inhabit this wild neighborhood including Mule Deer and giant Ravens.
During winter months expect the terrain to be snow covered, but the road passable as residents of Pine Valley commute to work and play year round. In the summer this drive gives you a spectacular gift, for the elevation and soils of the region are optimal for the Utah Cliffrose to flourish. At their peak, the slopes and crevasses that meander with the Santa Clara River are colorfully dotted with thousands of petite, yellow roses blooming on the heavy, gnarly bark of the Cliffrose shrub. This plant can withstand long periods of drought while producing a fabulous show! Anytime of year is the right time of year for this outing.
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