Historic Hurricane Canal Walks with Ranger Reub Adventures - St. George

Historic Hurricane Canal Walks with Ranger Reub Adventures

St. Georgemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for those with steady balance and average fitness due to rocky and uneven terrain.

Overview

Ranger Reub Adventures offers immersive walking tours along Hurricane Canal, Confluence Park, and Three Falls near Hurricane, Utah. Discover a blend of history, geology, and striking desert scenery on these memorable guided hikes.

Details

Hurricane, Utah, is a gateway to rugged desert landscapes and pioneering spirit, where red-rock cliffs frame the Virgin River valley. Amid this dramatic setting, Ranger Reub Adventures offers a distinctive way to connect with both nature and history through guided walks centered on the Hurricane Canal and local landmarks. These trips wind through Confluence Park, tracing the canal perched high above town, and lead to Three Falls, a striking cascade tucked into sandstone cliffs.

The Hurricane Canal, constructed in the early 1900s, is an engineering feat that diverted water from the Virgin River to irrigate farmland on a challenging arid plateau. Walking its banks today offers a glimpse into local settlers' determination, with hand-cut rock walls and austere masonry still intact alongside wild stands of desert scrub and juniper. Ranger Reub’s guided treks bring these stories to life, illuminating how the canal shaped both the landscape and community.

Confluence Park sits where several waterways converge, offering lush riparian scenes contrasting the surrounding desert. The walk through here is easy but rich with plant life uncommon in the region—cottonwoods, willows, and wildflowers that attract quail and lizards. Continuing above town, the Hurricane Canal route clings to rugged cliffs and overlooks deep canyons. The highlight, Three Falls, pours over sheer rock faces, a refreshing oasis accessible via well-maintained trails.

Ranger Reub Adventures integrates practical knowledge of local geology and flora with historical insight, making these walks stand out for visitors interested in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Situated just 20 miles from St. George, this company is a key part of the community’s outdoor offerings, bringing a unique blend of environmental appreciation and storytelling to Hurricane’s vibrant landscape.

Adventure Tips

Stay Hydrated

Carry at least 2 liters of water during your hike, as desert sun and dry air quickly dehydrate.

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails above Hurricane Canal can be rocky and uneven, so shoes with good traction are important.

Mind the Sun

Use sunscreen and bring a hat—the southern Utah sun is intense even on cooler days.

Respect Private Land Boundaries

Parts of the canal pathway pass near private property; stay on marked trails and follow guidance from your guide.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • A secluded bend on the canal with unique petroglyphs.
  • A quiet pocket of riparian vegetation in Confluence Park attracting migrating birds.

Wildlife

  • California quail
  • Western fence lizard

History

The Hurricane Canal was completed in 1909 and played a critical role in turning desert land into productive farmland for early settlers.

Conservation

Local efforts focus on preserving the canal’s original structure and minimizing trail erosion to protect both cultural heritage and fragile desert ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
early morning
late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Overlook above the Hurricane Canal with canyon views
  • Near the base of Three Falls for dynamic waterfall shots
  • Along the ridgeline at Confluence Park capturing water junctions

What to Photograph

Red-rock formations
waterfalls
historic canal walls

Recommended Gear

Hiking boots

Essential

Protects feet and ankles on uneven, rocky trail sections.

Water bottle or hydration pack

Essential

Necessary to stay hydrated in dry desert conditions throughout the year.

Sun hat

Essential

Provides shade and sun protection during exposed portions of the hike.

spring|summer|fall specific

Layered clothing

Helps regulate temperature in variable weather, especially mornings and evenings.

fall|winter specific