Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Santa Clara Arboretum is an interesting area worth exploring and is not far from the large city of St. George, Utah. The Arboretum is located amongst a suburban neighborhood and near some little league baseball fields. However, once you begin your hike through the Santa Clara Arboretum you’ll likely forget that you are so near the city!

The Santa Clara Arboretum has a bit of a history. It was originally hand built in the 1980’s by Dr. Robert Shepherd. It was enjoyed for years, but eventually the wetlands became choked by an abundance of non-native Tamarisk.

Several projects have been undertaken since then to clean up the Arboretum. Unfortunately in 2004 a fire burned a large section of the Arboretum. Additionally, recent floods have changed the Arboretum area.

Despite these setbacks, effort is still being made to maintain the Arboretum. It is certainly worth a visit as the area is quite unique. Hiking paths will take you through the wetland area, and eventually to a unique black lava flow area.

As you wander your way through the lava flow (there are an assortment of trails, some dead end) you’ll come to a lovely area featuring gravel pathways that lead to a shaded area with two benches. There are also a variety of plants and cactus here with some species labeled.

After enjoying and exploring the lava flow area, return to where you parked via the main hiking trail.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Enjoyable area with several hiking trails. Unique black lava flow.

Cons

Arboretum isn't well kept. Some trails dead end.

Features

Wildlife
Family friendly
Big vistas
Bird watching

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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