The Vortex is a large pot hole in the sandstone, sitting on top a slickrock ridge in a very scenic area NW of St George. Round trip hiking distance is about 2.5 miles. The trail goes through deep sand and there is some scrambling required.

This is a great family hike. (Children under 8 will need considerable help. There are steep sections and some exposure, so you will want to keep kids close.)

The hike begins at the Lower Sand Cove Trailhead, west of Dammeron Valley. Follow Hwy 18 north from St George to Dammeron Valley. Turn left onto Lower Sand Cove Road and follow it to the Lover Sand Cove Trailhead, just past the lower pond.

This hike has become quite popular and the trail is relatively easy to follow. From the trailhead, follow the trail down into the wash and then up a tributary on the other side. Both are usually dry but could hold some water after rains.

As you start the hike, nearby slickrock is white and there is pink slickrock in the distance. The tributary wash runs between the white and pink ridges. Hike through deep sand and then scramble over slickrock up to a saddle. From the saddle, turn right and follow the ridge line up to the Vortex, which is right on top the ridge.

Hiking time for us was about 2 hours. With young kids, it would probably take a bit longer. Strong hikers could do it faster but we enjoyed taking our time and exploring the area.

Lat: 37.271161°
Long: -113.747523°