St. George

This county seat sits in the northeasternmost section of the Mojave Desert at an elevation of 2,860 feet (872 meters), surrounded by red rock canyons and sandstone formations. Warm temperatures prevail throughout the year, with hot summers and mild winters that support year-round outdoor activity.

Founded in 1861 under the direction of Erastus Snow, the settlement began as a cotton mission to secure supplies during the Civil War. Over the following decades, it evolved from an agricultural colony into a regional center serving southwestern Utah.

Outdoor recreation defines much of how residents spend their time, with trails, parks and open desert spaces woven into daily routines. On weekends, families gather at community events, farmers markets and performances that reflect the local appreciation for art inspired by the surrounding landscape.

A regional airport connects the city to major hubs, while a local bus system covers multiple routes across town. Most visitor destinations sit within a short drive of one another, and walking works well in the downtown core.

The city sits near the boundary of two time zones, meaning a short drive can shift the clock by an hour. This geographic quirk sometimes creates confusion for visitors planning events or appointments in nearby areas.

Location: Washington County

Inception: 1861

Elevation above the sea: 872 m

Shares border with: Washington, Santa Clara, Ivins

Website: https://sgcity.org

GPS coordinates: 37.09528,-113.57806

Latest update: December 3, 2025 09:16