Snow Canyon State Park: 1st Time Visitor Guide
Snow Canyon State Park is often overshadowed by its famous neighbors like Zion, but it’s a true hidden gem worth exploring. This park offers a diverse and surreal landscape perfect for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re spending a day or a weekend, this first time visitor guide will help you make the most of your adventure.
Overview
Located just outside St. George, Snow Canyon State Park spans over 7,400 acres and showcases a stunning mix of Navajo sandstone, lava tubes, and petrified dunes. Despite its name, it rarely sees snow instead, it gets its name from early Mormon settlers Lorenzo and Erastus Snow. The park is a peaceful alternative to Utah’s busy national parks, offering easy access, dramatic views, and fewer crowds.
Photos
How to Get There
- From St. George, Utah: The park entrance is just 11 miles northwest via UT-18 N. It’s an easy 20-minute drive.
- From Las Vegas, Nevada: Expect about a 2-hour drive (130 miles). Take I-15 N to UT-9 E and then to UT-18 N.
- From Salt Lake City: Around 4.5 hours (310 miles) south via I-15 S.
Park Entrance Fees:
- $15 per vehicle (up to 8 passengers)
- $10 for Utah residents
- $5 per pedestrian or cyclist
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (March to May): Wildflowers bloom and temperatures are ideal, typically between 60–80°F.
- Fall (September to November): Crisp air, fewer crowds, and warm days make it one of the best seasons to visit.
- Winter: Quieter but colder; temps can drop below freezing at night.
- Summer: Expect scorching heat (90–105°F). Start your hikes early in the morning and bring plenty of water.
10 Best Things to Do in Snow Canyon State Park
- Explore the Petrified Dunes – Walk atop ancient, frozen waves of red and orange rock.
- Hike to Jenny’s Canyon – A short slot canyon trail perfect for beginners and kids.
- Climb the Lava Flow Trail – View lava tubes and climb up black rock formations.
- Cycle through the park – Enjoy smooth paved roads with stunning views.
- Watch the sunset from Sand Dunes Picnic Area – A quiet, photogenic spot for golden hour.
- See the White Rocks Amphitheater – A hidden spot with creamy sandstone cliffs.
- Stargaze – The remote location makes it ideal for viewing the Milky Way.
- Photograph Arch Canyon – A secluded natural arch within a dramatic canyon wall.
- Ride horseback – Equestrian trails allow you to see the park from a different perspective.
- Camp under the stars – Spend the night at one of the scenic campgrounds in the park.
Best Hikes in Snow Canyon State Park (Beginner to Advanced)
- Beginner:
- Jenny’s Canyon (0.5 miles RT) – Slot canyon, shaded, great for families.
- Whiptail Trail (6 miles RT) – Paved, ADA-accessible, scenic and peaceful.
- Sand Dunes Trail (0.5 miles RT) – A fun walk through soft red sand to a dune playground.
- Intermediate:
- Petrified Dunes Trail (1.2 miles RT) – Climb colorful domes with panoramic views.
- Johnson Canyon Trail (2 miles RT, open seasonally) – Ends at a lava tube and an arch.
- Advanced:
- Lava Flow Trail with Lava Tubes (2.5 miles RT) – Includes scrambling over volcanic rock.
- Butterfly Trail to Lava Tubes Loop (4 miles RT) – Connects multiple trails through diverse terrain.
Packing List
- My Amazon gear list
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack (at least 2L)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Trail map or downloaded offline map (cell service is limited)
- Grippy hiking shoes (for slickrock and lava rock)
- Snacks or lunch (no food services inside park)
- Light layers (mornings can be chilly, even in spring)
- Headlamp or flashlight (if exploring lava tubes)
- Camera or phone for photography
- Park pass or cash for entry
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful on uneven terrain)
Where to Stay
Best hotels deals near Snow Canyon State Park
Things to Know Before You Go
- No pets on trails: Only allowed in the campground and Whiptail Trail.
- Stay on trails: The fragile desert ecosystem is easily damaged.
- Cell service: Limited or nonexistent, download maps and directions in advance.
- Weather awareness: Flash floods are rare but possible in slot canyons.
- No restaurants inside: Pack your meals or eat in nearby towns.
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Final Thoughts
Snow Canyon State Park is one of Utah’s best kept secrets. Its red rock wonders, lava flows, and peaceful trails make it a paradise for outdoor lovers, without the overwhelming crowds of nearby national parks. Whether you’re chasing a unique photo, an easy hike, or a weekend of desert solitude, this park has something for everyone. Pack smart, plan well, and you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories.
