Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/80982
REGIONAL PROFILE BY JEFF SUTHERLAND The idea of a snowbird getaway is near to all snowbirds' hearts and St. George in southern Utah is a great option to consider. Southwestern Utah is an area that boasts some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world. National parks like Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon attract millions of visitors to St. George and Utah's Color Country. Whether it is the wide variety of recreational opportunities that exist in the area, or the mild climate, St. George is recognized as one of the premier places to live in the nation. Temperatures in Washington County are mild in the winter and dry in the summer with over 300 sunny days per year. Winter temperatures regularly reach 60 degrees F while spring and fall days are normally very pleasant with highs in the low 70s to 80s F. And while St. George not only feels like a small town, it also acts like one. As in being friendly. As in saying, "Hi, how are ya?" and "Is there anything we can do for ya?" You'll meet this attitude at local businesses, city offices and at community events. And while St. George feels small, it's certainly not backwards. You'll find world-class medical facilities and cultural events, theatre productions and fabulous musical events. Plus, Las Vegas is just a two-hour drive away with even more events and entertainment. And while on the subject of world-class, the master- Southern Utah combination of challenging desert golf with generous fairways and true greens. With a player-friendly design, friendly atmosphere and competitive green fees, SunRiver has become a hit with locals and visitors alike. Says Director of Golf Operations, Jim Blair, "With the only bent grass tees in southern Utah you are bound to have one of your best rounds of golf. Come spend the day and have an experience that we are sure will bring you back again and again." SunRiver St. George also offers a Vacation Villa for prospective residents to stay in and experience the active adult lifestyle that residents enjoy. Packages start at $99 for a 2-night, 3-day stay and includes discounted prices on golf, free hot breakfast, use of the Community Center, and the use of a golf cart (some restrictions apply). Call (888)688-6556 or visit sunriver.com for more details. planned development of SunRiver merits mention. SunRiver St. George is an award-winning master- planned active retirement community that has set the standard for active adult retirement living. With over 50 active clubs and a never-ending calendar of activities and events, there is always something to do - and a friend to do it with. If you are looking for pristine, no-compromise, resort-style living with comfort and peace of mind, then this may well be it. The community is also home to the SunRiver St. George Golf Course billed as "Championship Golf Open to the Public." Set next to the Virgin River and surrounded by the most colourful desert landscape in the country, the layout offers a refreshing 2012 UTAH UPDATE 87