Virgin River Gorge

Virgin River Gorge is a canyon carved through limestone cliffs between Utah and Arizona, where steep rock walls frame the river valley below. The area offers trails and camping facilities for those wanting to explore the landscape and enjoy outdoor recreation.

The Virgin River shaped this gorge over thousands of years, slowly carving through limestone to create the steep canyon walls seen today. A highway section was built through the gorge in the 1970s, making the region more accessible for travelers passing through.

The name comes from Spanish missionaries who arrived in the region during the 1600s. The area has long served as a crossing point through the desert for people traveling between different parts of the Southwest.

Access is easiest via Interstate 15, which runs directly through the gorge and provides pullouts and viewing areas along the way. Plan time to explore the hiking trails on foot, and watch for weather changes, especially during the hottest months.

The water rushes through with remarkable speed, driven by the steep drop of the valley floor. This intense flow creates one of the steepest river gradients found across the entire region.