Kaylee Jardine Southern Utah state parksOne thing that is unique about southern Utah is its many hiking trails. Most of which arein state or national parks. The area is beautifully graced with vibrant red rocks all around. Some of the most prominent parks are Bryce Canyon, Zions national park, and arches. Though there are some other smaller parks like Snow Canyon and Glen canyon. All are unique to utah. The many different areas also have many different foliage and colors to see and explore. National parks have a magic that is really hard to recreate in normal lives. One personal experience I have is in Bryce canyon. I was there for a young womens camp. It was the second I had ever been to. We stayed in tee-pees with all of our group filling 3 different tents. We planned different activities for each day we were up there. On the second day we were offered to go on a stargazing tour in the middle of the park. Some of the adults went, but me and my friend Angie decided to stay behind. We grabbed our pillows and a large blanket and laid in the back of one of the adult’s truck. We spent three hours in the back of the truck making our own constellations. We would make out different shapes and call them “semi-truckus” or “amazon-boxus”. I was amazed at the clarity of the stars in the sky. I will never forget how stunning the sky looked. I swore we could even see part of our own galaxy in the sky. That next morning we went on a hike with everyone. The hike was long and hot, but the payoff was fantastic. It was a gigantic waterfall with moss and trees all around it. The water it was giving was frigid cold. This small hidden area with this gigantic waterfall was truly a wonder to behold. We ate lunch as we took in the beautiful sight. As it was hot, a lot of the girls played in the cold water to cool off. As we were preparing to leave, an adult suggested to just follow the river back to the cars. Some girls were reluctant and some agreed. The group following the river stayed cool, but it came with a price. While they were trudging through the deep mud they saw something circling around them. They watched it and it charged them and it popped out of the river and it was an aggressive beaver. The group hightailed it back to the cars where we were sitting and waiting for them. When they showed up the beaver retreated back into the water. The way the group described the chase scene was hilariously comical. After they got some drinking water we headed back to the campsite. With the instance of the stars and the beaver, it shows that things and experiences can be had in national parks that you can't have in a normal day to day experience. Those two stories happened back in 2019, but I can still remember them like I experienced it last week. National parks are naturally beautiful and aren’t horribly dismembered by pollution and urbanization of the world. We can feel the real intent and see the real beauty that nature intended it to be.

Gideon Willard Among the many great events hosted in Southern Utah, I believe Panguitch’s annual Balloon Festival is one of the best. Every year on the last Saturday of June, three dozen hot air balloons fill the morning sky as thousands of people watch the spectacle from below. In the evening, people gather all along main street for entertainment and food from vendors. Grounded, glowing hot air balloons also line the street in what’s known as “The Glow”. Growing up, I always looked forward to the Balloon Festival. It was a night of fantastic fun, always spent with friends and family and eating cotton candy, everything washed in a cozy glow from the balloons as the sky darkened. Although I now live in St. George, I lived in Panguitch for 13 years and still come every year for the Balloon Festival. The effects of the festival extend beyond my personal nostalgia for it and all the fun I’ve had. It is one of Panguitch’s largest tourism boosters, drawing people in from all sorts of places. Local businesses and street vendors benefit every year from the enormous influx of people each year. This may help sustain them during slower parts of the year, ensuring the survival and even thriving of small businesses in the town. Besides that, the festival also helps promote unity among both residents of Panguitch and non-residents. Even though I now come every year as a visitor, I still enjoy talking with old friends and new ones. I will always treasure the Balloon Festival for its role in helping me have an enjoyable childhood. It is one of my favorite memories growing up and is still very enjoyable.   Gideon Willard Dixie High School

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque southwestern corner of Utah, St. George is a captivating city that seamlessly blends stunning natural landscapes with vibrant urban amenities. With its proximity to breathtaking national and state parks, world-class golf courses, charming neighborhoods, and exciting events, St. George offers a multitude of activities and experiences to satisfy any adventurer's heart. Join us as we delve into the remarkable attractions and opportunities that make St. George a true gem of the American Southwest. National Parks: St. George serves as a gateway to several renowned national parks, each offering a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Zion National Park, just a short drive away, enchants visitors with its towering sandstone cliffs, emerald canyons, and thrilling hiking trails such as Angel's Landing and The Narrows. Bryce Canyon National Park, with its otherworldly rock formations called hoodoos, paints an unforgettable and mystical landscape. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these natural wonders and witness the grandeur of nature up close. State Parks: Beyond the national parks, St. George is also surrounded by remarkable state parks that showcase Utah's diverse natural beauty. Snow Canyon State Park boasts fiery red sandstone cliffs, lava flows, and ancient petroglyphs, making it a haven for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Quail Creek State Park is a paradise for water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing, set against a backdrop of rugged desert mountains. Discover the hidden treasures of these state parks and create memories that will last a lifetime. Golf Courses: For golf enthusiasts, St. George offers a golfer's paradise with its exceptional golf courses that blend challenging fairways with breathtaking views. Tee off amidst stunning red rock landscapes at courses like Coral Canyon Golf Course, Sand Hollow Resort, and Sunbrook Golf Club. With year-round golfing opportunities, St. George has earned a reputation as a top golf destination, attracting players from around the world. Neighborhoods: St. George features a range of distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character. Downtown St. George boasts a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and boutiques lining its charming streets. The historic district is filled with beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. Other neighborhoods like SunRiver, Entrada, and Green Springs provide tranquil residential communities surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making them perfect for those seeking a peaceful and active lifestyle. Events: Throughout the year, St. George hosts a variety of exciting events that bring the community together and entertain visitors. The St. George Art Festival showcases the talents of local artists and craftsmen, while the St. George Marathon attracts runners from across the country. The Tuacahn Amphitheatre offers spectacular outdoor performances, including Broadway shows and concerts, set against the backdrop of towering red cliffs. Whether you're interested in arts, sports, or cultural festivities, St. George has something for everyone. Conclusion: St. George, Utah, is a remarkable destination that offers a delightful blend of natural wonders, world-class golfing, inviting neighborhoods, and lively events. From the iconic national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon to the breathtaking state parks such as Snow Canyon and Quail Creek, outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in unparalleled beauty. With its abundance of top-notch golf courses, St. George caters to golfers of all skill levels. Additionally, the city's diverse neighborhoods and vibrant events provide a welcoming and engaging community for both residents and visitors alike. Embark on your St. George adventure and unlock a world of unforgettable experiences in this southwestern treasure.