Here is a new hike I found. I am really excited about this one because of how close to home it is.

I have talked a little before about Cottonwood Wash by the Walmart Distribution Center. The Red Cliffs Reserve is a vast area that has so much to offer. The only problem is there are only a few entry points to get into the reserve and so you may hear me talk about the same areas of entry, but different trails.

I had originally planned on hiking the Cottonwood Wash when I stumbled upon Red Reef Trail. I walked for an hour and a half in the sand before I decided to turn back. I never did find the end of the trail and was getting deeper and deeper into the Red Cliffs.

I passed a few mountain bikers on some of the side trails and passed a few horseback riders along the way. It was getting warmer out and so I will caution you about rattlesnakes going into this time of year.

To get there, you will see a dirt road right next to the Winkle distributing building, on old highway 91 out by Walmart Distribution to the left or toward I-15. It will say on a small sign, Red Cliffs Recreation Area, and it will go under some tight tunnels under the freeway.

You will end up in a parking lot. Once you head out on foot, taking plenty of water and snacks, walk on the dirt path to the west. I made the mistake of not taking enough water and was not very happy about that.

About a half mile up, you will come to a cross trail called Prospector Trail, and it is marked with signs. Turn right on Prospector going down the hill to the north. Once you get almost to the bottom, you will see a trail going west again that says Cottonwood Trail.

Follow that trail a few blocks until you see Red Reef Trail taking off to the right. It is very sandy, but so worth it.

This is the best description I can give you. There is so much to offer in this area and I hope you get out and enjoy the awesome things we have right by our own home.

Hike or travel at your own risk. St. George News, Sentric Media and Eric Dodge are not responsible for injuries.