St. George to Santa Clara

A beautifully preserved 1862 sandstone home built by pioneer explorer Jacob Hamblin. Guided tours tell the story of early settlement, Native American relations, and daily frontier life in Southern Utah. A National Historic Landmark.

Santa Clara's Swiss immigrant heritage is evident throughout the town, from the architecture of historic buildings to the fruit orchards planted by original settlers. Walking through town is like stepping back in time.

The Santa Clara Cemetery contains graves of the original Swiss settlers dating to the 1850s. The weathered headstones tell the story of the hardships and triumphs of pioneering life in the desert Southwest.

The site of the original Santa Clara Fort, built for protection during the early settlement period. While the fort no longer stands, interpretive markers explain its role in the community's founding.

A paved multi-use trail following the Santa Clara River through town. Flat terrain ideal for walking, jogging, biking, and strollers. Cottonwood trees provide shade along much of the route. Connects to the greater St. George trail system.

The Santa Clara River provides habitat for birds, lizards, and native plant life. Several access points along the trail allow visitors to explore the riverbanks and enjoy the riparian environment.

The west-facing orientation of the river trail makes it ideal for evening walks. The red cliffs above Santa Clara glow in the golden hour light, creating a stunning backdrop for a peaceful stroll.

The Santa Clara River Trail connects to the Virgin River Trail system, providing miles of continuous paved path for long-distance walking or biking throughout the greater St. George area.

Santa Clara provides access to Snow Canyon State Park's southern entrance via Snow Canyon Parkway. This is the main entrance with the visitor center, campground, and most popular trailheads.

Several viewpoints along Snow Canyon Parkway above Santa Clara offer panoramic views of the canyon, the lava flows, and the distant desert landscape. Quick photo stops on the way to the park.

Multiple Snow Canyon trailheads are accessible from the Santa Clara side, including the Petrified Dunes, Jenny's Canyon, and Whiptail Trail. The southern end of the park is closest to Santa Clara.

Santa Clara's beloved annual Swiss Days celebration honors the town's Swiss immigrant heritage with traditional food, Swiss music and dancing, crafts, a parade, and community festivities. One of the most anticipated events in Washington County.

Santa Clara hosts seasonal community events including holiday celebrations, pioneer day commemorations, and neighborhood gatherings. The tight-knit community maintains a strong tradition of civic participation.

The community supports local artists and craftspeople, with periodic art shows and cultural events. The proximity to Kayenta Art Village in Ivins extends the cultural corridor through the area.

Fruit orchards established by the original Swiss settlers continue to produce in Santa Clara. Seasonal fruit including peaches, apricots, and apples connect the community to its agricultural roots.

Santa Clara has a handful of locally owned restaurants and eateries that serve the community. The small-town atmosphere provides a quiet, relaxed dining experience away from the busier St. George restaurant scene.

Several well-maintained parks provide playgrounds, picnic areas, sports courts, and open space for families. The parks serve as gathering spots for the close-knit community.

Xetava Gardens Cafe in nearby Kayenta (Ivins) is the closest upscale dining option, offering creative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an artistic garden setting. Just a 5-minute drive from Santa Clara.

Seasonal farm stands and the proximity to community farmers markets offer fresh, locally grown produce. Santa Clara's agricultural heritage continues with small-scale farming operations throughout the area.