Hotel Review: Red Mountain Resort in Utah

Clients looking to make good on New Year’s resolutions, or even to just recharge and rejuvenate, might want to check out Red Mountain Resort in Ivins, Utah.

“We encourage guests to disconnect as much as possible,” said Tracey Welsh, the resort’s general manager. “We offer Wi-Fi access all over the resort, but we really encourage visitors to disconnect. On hikes, guides encourage guests to put their phones on airplane mode, but also remind them when they should take it out get a good photo.”

That ideal blend of connection mixed with sanctuary — where guests have phones, but don’t obsessively check them — permeates the resort experience.

The property is located about 20 minutes from the St. George airport, or a two-hour drive from Las Vegas. It sits at the base of a range of deep-red sandstone cliffs, alongside lava fields. The views are rich — orange and red against a big sky with plenty of room to roam. With only 130 rooms on more than 55 acres, it’s a picture-worthy setting.

Many guests opt for the Signature Package — an all-inclusive getaway that includes three nutritious meals, guided morning hikes, unlimited fitness classes, healthy-living seminars and use of the resort facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, bicycles, walking trails and strength and cardio studios.

There’s an a la carte option as well, without meals, and there are several activities available each day for an additional price. I was on the Signature Plan and choose to add a $200 hiking excursion in Bryce Canyon National Park, which included transportation, friendly and informative guides, a picnic lunch and snacks throughout the day.

The rest of the days of my visit I took advantage of the extensive schedule filled with fitness classes and health-and-wellness activities. Each morning there are several guided-hiking options — from a nature walk to a bit more intermediate-level “challenge” hike to a longer “endurance” hike. I swam in the indoor pool, soaked in an outdoor hot tub and took a few gym classes. My favorite activity was Drums Alive — a unique class where exercise balls are propped up on plastic risers and become drums. It’s a low-impact, high-energy workout for all fitness levels and combines pounding, movement and music in a fresh, invigorating way. 

The Sagestone Spa and Salon is popular with guests, and it offers a full slate of massage and treatment options. The Table Thai Yoga Massage was a relaxing blend of stretching and massage — great after a day of hiking. The resort also has a labyrinth lined with Arizona river rock, creating the perfect setting for a contemplative and peaceful walk alongside the lava fields. 

With newly opened two-bedroom villas that comfortably sleep five guests, Red Mountain Resort makes a great spot for a girlfriend getaway. On my visit, I saw many groups of women, as well as couples and singles. Solo travelers are welcome to dine alone or can opt to sit at the Community Table each evening, which is an easy way to get to know other travelers.

Animal-lovers will appreciate that pets are welcome (for an additional fee and only in specific units), and a number of the activities cater to them, such as horseback riding, birdwatching and a visit to a local animal shelter for a “Pound Puppy” walk.

The food is focused on fresh ingredients and healthy options but is in no way limited. The breakfast buffet is extensive with everything from cereals and fruit to pancakes, French toast and sausages. Lunch is similar with plenty of tasty choices. At any meal, guests can ask for a takeout box to have their meal on the go. A three-course dinner is offered each night, with several menu options (meat, fish and vegetarian), and always a few dessert choices. There’s also room service and the Canyon Counter open for snacks and smoothies. 

Dress is casual throughout the property with most guests donning hiking attire for much of the day. During the evening, guests bundle up and congregate around the  stone fire pit for a relaxing wind-down — with s’mores — under the big Utah sky. 

The Details
Red Mountain Resort
www.redmountainresort.com