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The “D” on the Hillside

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

TRAIL MAP

Download Map

LOCAL SERVICES

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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