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Rock Hounding
When you look at Color Country's rugged landscape you'll realize the land has undergone tremendous geologic activity, producing a wide variety of minerals, fossils and semi-precious gems. Old mines and ghost towns can produce unexpected treasures. Some areas are closed and private property rights should be respected. Stop at the rock shops where local rockhounders are more than willing to share their advise on good rock hunting locations. Rock shops are located in most major towns.
Four-Wheeling
Riding an off-highway vehicle is a fun way to explore parts of Color Country. You can ride the designated ATV trails in the Dixie and Fishlake National Forests. Or explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes tate Park in a dune buggy or ATV. With close and convenient facilities and accommodations, the dunes are fun for the day or for a weekend.
Lots of dirt roads left from pioneering and mining days ribbon through Color Country's landscape. These roads lead to thrilling four-wheel drive adventures. Check with the Forest Service or BLM office in the area for information and maps. Go prepared into remote areas. Some land is privately owned and the rights of the property owners should be respected.
Fishing
Drop your fishing line into a lake or stream in Color Country and chances are you'll pull up a rainbow, German brown, or brook trout. Color Country has 20 reservoirs, 9 natural lakes, and 10 creeks and rivers that are open and stocked for fishing. Which is the best is a matter of opinion because every single place is some fisherman's secret spot.
In addition to the excellent trout fishing, Color Country has bass fishing at Gunlock and Quail Creek reservoirs, and Lake Powell.
Stop at any of Color Country's visitor centers for specific locations of the reservoirs, lakes and rivers. You'll probably get a few suggestions on the best fishing spots to try. Since fishing regulations vary, pick up a copy of the Utah Fishing Proclamation at any location where Utah fishing licenses are sold.
Boating
Water skiers and boaters will be delighted to see the large selection of reservoirs and lakes in Utah's Southwest Color Country. They range in size from the massive Lake Powell, where you can ski for miles without having to turn around, to the smaller reservoirs that can be great fun since the antics in the water are never far from the spectators on the shore. And if you have a jet ski, bring it along. Most lakes and reservoirs have well-maintained launch ramps or docks and public beach areas.
And More
If your taste in recreation is a little more competitive, remember that one of the most popular and enjoyable marathons in the United States is the St. George Marathon held each October. But if 26 miles is a little too far, join in one of the many IOK races or fun runs held throughout Color Country each year.
If you prefer to be the spectator, take in a bit of the Wild West at a rodeo and watch some fine cowboys pit their skills against some wily livestock. You'll find summer weekends full of rodeos in Color Country.
Or if your tastes are a little more classical, remember the world renowned Utah Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City each summer. Take in the outdoor musical drama, UTAH! - a saga of Utah's history - at Tuacahn near St. George. Local community theater in each of the major cities throughout Color Country is always fun for the whole family and can brighten up your vacation evenings.
The best vacation possible is ready and waiting for you and your family in Utah's Southwest Color Country.
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