Swimming
A waterfall or swimming pool is a great destination for a day hike, an easy way to get some exercise, and one of the simplest ways to escape the southern Utah heat.
Local Listings:
- Head to Emerald Pools to swim in stream-fed waterfalls in Zion Canyon.
- Sand Hollow Aquatics Center is a 25,000 sq. ft. facility in St. George, open year-round.
- Pine Creek Waterfall is an easily-accessed area in Zion with little visitor traffic.
- Rent an inner tube for a memorable trip down the Virgin River.
Overview
Take your pick from the many swimming holes in and around Zion National Park, or the St. George swimming pools. Both are great ways to spend some time relaxing in the sun.
Where to go Swimming
Emerald Pools
These three pools, all fed by springs, are highlight destinations for many visitors. The lower pool is the most accessible and popular, while the middle and upper pools receive much less attention. The hikes last from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on which pools are visited.
Pine Creek Waterfall
If you're looking to escape both the heat and the crowds, this is a little visited area of Zion, complete with swimming pool and waterfall. Turn off at the Pine Creek Bridge on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, then hike the quarter of a mile to the swimming hole.
Virgin River
Depending on the season, the Virgin can either be a trickling stream, heavy high-water, or a normal river. Grab an inner tube from one of the places in Springdale for a relaxing and fun trip through lower Zion Canyon.
Sand Hollow Aquatic Center
Located on the border with Santa Clara, this multi-million dollar facility has 25,000 sq. ft. under its roof. There is a zero depth entry leisure pool, water slides, kids area, diving pool and lap swimming. Open to the general public, the pool is operated year-round.
St. George City Pool
Located in the heart of St. George, this pool is open from May to September. Priced at a very reasonable rate, this is a great way to spend a day getting out of the summer heat.
Local Reservoirs
Multiple reservoirs, originally created to support the local communities, are available for recreation, including swimming. Try out Kolob Reservoir, Quail Creek Reservoir, Pine Valley Reservoir, Sand Hollow Reservoir and others around the area.
Guided Tours and Rentals
Adventure companies in and around Springdale provide shuttles and inner tubes, as well as guided walks to swimming holes, so take a look below to discover which one fits your group.
