TOQUERVILLE FALLS TRAIL

WHERE TO RIDE: A hidden oasis close to St. George, Utah

On Jan 12, 2020

By the staff of Dirt Wheels

TOQUERVILLE FALLS TRAIL

Southern Utah is famous for its gorgeous red rock desert landscape. One of the most popular ride spots is the deep red sandstone of Sand Hollow State Park. If you’re looking for a less crowded, more picturesque trail, then head just minutes up the road to Hurricane and hit Toquerville Falls.

This is a great option, because the trail to the falls is right on the edge of town, and it is open to the public with no fees. This ride is great for families because there is plenty for little ones to do and see along the way. Plus, the route is anything but high speed. Horsepower is not a factor, but you will need a machine with good ground clearance. You must not be worried about using the machine’s skid plate.

The cascading falls that are fed by La Verkin Creek can only be reached by hiking or an off-road-capable vehicle. There are two ways to get to the falls. The “easy way” is 5.3 miles, and the other is at least twice as long and highly technical.

The easy way takes you through the town of La Verkin to the trailhead where a big green sign will let you know that you’re in the right place and the fire road will take you right to the falls. The rock can be very choppy and rough. Low-clearance vehicles (or ones you want to maintain in pristine, showroom condition) are not a great idea.

**In a few places, the sides are so close that you briefly run in the water and avoiding the rocks.**

DON’T BE AFRAID

If you aren’t afraid of rocks and water crossings, then start your ride at the La Verkin Shooting Range off of Utah State Route 9. The dusty desert path meanders for a few miles before you can even see the creek.

Although this trail goes along the banks for much of the ride, be prepared for more than 30 water crossings and some skid-plate contact. The water is shallow enough to keep your feet dry, but on hot summer days, the crystal-clear waters are great for cooling off.

While the tight trail makes for a slow, scenic ride, the rocks can still get your heart rate up. The scenery along the whole trail is like something out of a storybook. It is close to Zion National Park, so it almost mimics the striped red cliffs and lush greenery.

**Much of the route runs like this: tight trail that crosses the river when it must.**

It’s a good idea to pack snacks or a sack lunch, because the ride can take a while, especially in big groups. If you go during the heat of summer, we recommend bringing plenty of fluids and clothes that you don’t mind getting wet.

There is one pool along the trail that is deep enough to float around in and cool off. The falls are a popular swimming spot for some of the locals, and the pools below are deep enough to jump in from the lower falls in certain spots.

**At other points the crosses from one side to the other at an easy angle. It is not a fast trail.**

Taking this route can be difficult to navigate, thanks to a proliferation of trails in the first few miles. To find the easy route, you only need to enter it in maps and follow the signs. The other end of the trail, starting at the gun club, is tricky with no indication of where to go. Check your favorite UTV trail and navigation apps for others who have marked the trail on GPS. If you feel like you might need an experienced guide to help you find your way, local company Utah Off-Road Tours can help you navigate with your car or you can rent one of theirs.

**The flat area near the Falls is a popular gathering point. This is especially true during warm months.**

LODGING

St. George, Hurricane, and Washington areas are all close to the trail. You may want to stay near Zion National Park, as it is a short drive as well. There are also campgrounds and BLM dispersed dry camping as well.

**The base of the falls have pools deep enough for swimming or at least playing in the water.**

AREA AMENITIES

The area is loaded with outdoor activities, stores, and great food. You are within reasonable driving distance of the Grand Canyon North Rim, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Coral Pink Sand Dunes (off-road vehicles allowed), and more.

**This narrow slot about midway through the technical trails is another possible swimming spot.**

MACHINES

There are some rentals available in the area, as well as guided tour operators. Utah has recently changed the laws, and OHVs from other states now need to purchase a Utah non-resident OHV permit to be legal on trails. This non-resident OHV permit costs $30 and is good for 12 months from the time of purchase.

If you order the permit online, there is an additional $5 charge. Remember to bring proof of residency (i.e., driver’s license or other state-issued identification) and proof of ownership (i.e., title or current registration or bill of sale).

**Even when you are away from the river, the trail is often technical and requires care to avoid vehicle damage.**

WHERE TO RIDE: TOQUERVILLE FALLS TRAIL

The non-resident OHV permit funds go directly back into Utah’s motorized recreational sport. The permit funds are directed towards trail construction, trail improvements, trail maintenance, OHV education, OHV facility development, and enforcement.

**This rock area next to the river is a welcome spot for a picnic.**

Buy online here: https://utahstateparks.reserveamerica.com/showpage.do?name=common&commonopath=/htm/ohvpasses_ut.jsp

You can buy them from Maverick gas stations in the area, Rocky Mountain ATV’s dealership in Washington, Utah or at Sand Hollow State Park.

To subscribe to Dirt Wheels Magazine in print or digital form click here https://hi-torque.com/product/dirtwheels.