The “D” on the Hillside
Difficulty Level: Easy
Distance: 0.2 miles round trip
TRAIL SUMMARY
Overlooking the town, the “D” stands as a historic icon for St. George. This short is hike is great for families and features a great view. There is no trailhead or markers but the trail is clear and easy to follow. The single dirt path has a sharp incline and does get rocky but overall it isn’t too difficult. The area around the “D” is under 24 hour surveillance and a sign is posted to remind visitors that they are on camera. Like always, we ask hikers to respect this historic site by not leaving trash or vandalizing the area. With a leash, the hike is dog friendly as well.
Upon reaching the “D” and the white rocks is a plaque erected by Dixie State University that reads:
“‘Our “D” on the hillside so bold, cherished emblem of them all,’ A.K Hafen. Composer DSU School Song.
On February 19, 1915, the students of Dixie Academy gathered to construct the “D” on the hill. Civil engineer Leo A. Snow had surveyed and laid the outline of the 75-foot wide and 100-foot tall “D.” In three hours the rock was laid and wagonloads of lime began to arrive. Skits were performed and speeches were given, and the iconic “D” was pronounced complete.
Whitewashing the “D” continues to be an annual tradition every spring during Dixie State University’s “D” Week.
The “D” continues to elicit strong emotions in the hearts and minds of students, alumni and Southern Utahns. This plaque was erected in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the “D” on the hill.
Property deeded by Rodger C. & Leona Cox Atkin and Bill & Lida Cox Prince families on December 13, 1949 to the Dixie College Alumni Association.”
Erected by DSU April 18, 2015
TRAIL DETAILS
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy
ROUND TRIP LENGTH
0.2 miles round trip
AVERAGE HIKE TIME
GPS COORDINATES
37.1081500, -113.5978174
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
St George City
DISTANCE FROM ST GEORGE
2.6 Miles (6 mins driving)
RESTROOM FACILITIES
No Restroom Available
HIKERS ALLOWED
Yes
DOGS ALLOWED
Yes, on 6 ft leash
BIKERS ALLOWED
No
EQUESTRIAN ALLOWED
No
HIKE TYPE
Out & Back
BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO HIKE
Great Year Round
BEST TIME OF THE DAY TO HIKE
Morning, Evening
GROUP LIMIT
No Limit
PERMIT INFORMATION
No Permit Required
COST
No Cost
WATER SOURCES AVAILABLE
No Water Sources Available
CAMP SITES
No Camping Available on Trail
TRAIL CONDITIONS
Dirt Single Track, Rocky
SUN EXPOSURE
Partial Sun Exposure
DIRECTIONS TO TRAILHEAD
Coming Soon.
Since the trail is located off a private street, parking is not provided on the privately owned roads and adjacent property. Visitors are asked to respect private property rights.
FLORA AND FAUNA
Plants: Typical plant life for Southern Utah lowland hiking.
Animals: Typical animal life for Southern Utah lowland hiking.
TRAIL REPORT
Recently, the “D” has been able to change colors for the special occasions. The “D” showcases a wide range of colors to match holidays, to celebrate the community, and to match with the University Clock Tower lighting as well. “D” light colors also change for key DSU events including the first day of the fall and spring semesters, commencement, and home athletic wins for football and basketball. (See image above for various color changes).
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Spencer McMullin
Spencer McMullin is originally from Connecticut but has deep ties to the Southern Utah area. His passion for adventure and photography has lead him to HikeStGeorge.
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