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The Anasazi Indians were the first known inhabitants of southwestern Utah from 200 B.C. to 1200 A.D. The Paiute Indians entered the region between 1100 and 1200 A.D. St. George was settled in 1861 when Mormon pioneers, led by Brigham Young, arrived in Washington County to grow cotton and wine grapes and harvest silk. This area soon became known as “Dixie” because of its warm climate, southern location and the products produced there. Today, the cotton fields are gone and the area’s major employers are federal, state and local government agencies. However, the draw of its breathtaking natural beauty attracts thousands to the area.
In fact, the pristine desert climate promotes year-round recreation and leisure activities. With 10 scenic golf courses in St. George alone, southern Utah is a golfer’s paradise and the “Year-Round Golf Capital of Utah.” Four city courses are among the most popular - Southgate, St. George Golf Club, Dixie Red Hills and Sunbrook, which was rated by Golf Digest as the best golf course in Utah. St. George is also served by the city’s outstanding park system, which operates 18 parks, including Tonaquint Park, an oasis in the heart of the city. Trails, such as Halfway Wash, Temple Quarry and Virgin River, are also popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Today, tourism drives the economy in St. George, attracting visitors and residents alike. Picture state parks, ghost towns, canyons, coves, deserts, streams, golf courses, mineral pools, tennis courts, swimming holes, pioneer building, horseback riding, bicycling and hiking in one of the most scenic locations in the world. There is also the St. George Musical Theater, Art Museum and Opera House, as well as numerous annual events. Easter weekend attracts thousands of visitors to the annual St. George Art Festival. The St. George Marathon is run on the open road surrounded by the Red Rock Mountains and other sweeping vistas. Other annual events include the Huntsman World Senior Games, Rotary Bowl and the Dixie Roundup. |
