There’s another reason besides Amangiri and a ski weekend to head to Utah. Officially entering the conversation is the new Black Desert Resort.
The Setting
Set against lava rock and red cliffs, Black Desert Resort sits in Ivins, just outside St. George, within Utah’s Greater Zion region. Here, outdoor adventure is the name of the game. Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and Gunlock Reservoir are all close enough to anchor a day of hiking, biking, or exploration before returning to the comfort of the resort.
The Arrival
Black Desert opened its Resort Center in late 2024, with additional elements rolling out through 2025. Reef Capital Partners independently developed the project, rather than it being attached to a global hotel brand. That sort of independence allows the resort to move at its own pace and establish its own distinct identity.
The Design
Spanning several hundred acres, the resort embraces scale. The central Resort Center houses the guest rooms and suites, and future phases will introduce more accommodations and private residences. The aesthetic leans modern desert, emphasizing natural materials, clean lines, and architecture that keeps the surrounding landscape front and center.
The Dining
Dining plays a central role here and you’ll find multiple food and beverage venues. Basalt, the signature restaurant, focuses on refined American cooking with an emphasis on quality sourcing. Additional options range from relaxed all-day dining to lounges and bars designed for long evenings and wide-open views.
The Wellness
The Plume Spa & Wellness Center spans approximately 15,000 square feet and is designed to support active travel. Alongside traditional spa treatments, the offerings include recovery therapies and fitness programming. So, spend your days hiking trails, cycling desert roads, or logging time on the course, and know that you’ll be well pampered afterwards.
Golf
Golf is definitely the main attraction here. The championship course is designed by Tom Weiskopf, an IYKYK name in golf. (It’s one of his final designs). The course winds through ancient lava flows and open desert terrain. It’s visually striking and encourages strategically engaging play. As a result, the course has already hosted professional tournaments and secured Black Desert a place on the national golf radar.
The Takeaway
Utah was ripe for a compelling new hospitality option, and Black Desert Resort fits the bill. With its outdoor access, thoughtful design, and sense of scale that just feels right for the spectacular setting, it’s a great addition to Utah’s luxury travel landscape.
Photos courtesy of Black Desert Resort
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FAQs
Q: When did Black Desert Resort officially open?
A: The Resort Center opened in late 2024, with additional accommodations and facilities rolling out through 2025. It’s now fully operational and welcoming guests.
Q: Are there options for longer stays or private residences?
A: Yes. Beyond the main resort rooms and suites, future phases will include private residences, giving guests the option for extended stays or a more home-like experience in the desert.
Q: Is Black Desert Resort part of a hotel chain?
A: No. The resort is independently developed by Reef Capital Partners, giving it freedom to define its own identity and guest experience. It’s a standalone property with a luxury scale and attention to detail, comparable to top-tier resorts.
