(Panguitch, UT) - The Red Canyon Visitor Center on the Powell Ranger District of the Dixie National Forest is now open for the season. The visitor center is open all week long from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

Maria T. Garcia, Acting Dixie National Forest Supervisor, said “The Red Canyon Visitor Center is a must see on the Dixie. I encourage every visitor to make a stop and see what great information and resources the center offers.”

The visitor center features a bookstore and a gift shop along with interpretive displays highlighting the natural resources of the area. The center also provides an extensive trip planning area that features some of the best hiking, biking, horse, and ATV trails in the area. The “Alcove” gallery area inside the visitor center will continue to highlight the work of local area artists and crafters.

Lori Wood, Powell District Ranger, said "We look forward to continuing our interpretive programs at the Red Canyon Visitor Center and Red Canyon Campground. The Red Canyon Visitor Center is one of the many ‘jewels’ along the Scenic By-way 12 route," said Wood.

The center has partnered with Bryce Canyon National Park to provide solar scoping and night sky programs, which are very popular. The Red Canyon Campground across the street from the visitor’s center is now open for the season.

For more information call (435) 676-9300 or go to www.fs.fed.us