Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon State Park | Angie Payne

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Located at the edge of the Mojave Desert, Great Basin and Colorado Plateau, Snow Canyon State Park explodes with dramatic geology perfect for outdoor adventure — and photo opportunities. Contrary to its name, Snow Canyon State Park stuns visitors with vibrant orange rock formations, petrified dunes, and unexpected pockets of water. The park gets its name from Erastus Snow, a key Mormon pioneer, and only occasionally receives dustings of snow.

Snow Canyon’s Navajo sandstone cliffs share the same history and geology as Zion National Park to the east. Cut by water and sculpted by wind and time, they may make you wonder why it isn't a national park. As recently as 27,000 years ago, lava flows exerted their powerful force, reshaping the canyons and creating the park’s distinctive landscapes. The blend of Navajo sandstone cliffs, petrified dunes and broad lava fields makes this terrain a fantastic playground for adventurous travelers and families looking to give kids an outlet to expend some of their boundless energy.

Snow Canyon State Park is also just 10 miles from nearby St. George, Utah’s warm-weather haven for people of all ages and interests. St. George offers a wide range of local dining and accommodations and is a great base camp for visitors to Zion National Park and multiple scenic state parks.

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Things to Do

Biking

Snow Canyon is a popular destination among road cyclists for a good reason. Cruise through the scenic beauty of the state park on the famous 18-mile Snow Canyon Paved Loop, just remember it’s a popular route shared with other bikers, hikers, joggers and rollerbladers. For mountain bikers, explore easy options like the Whiptail Trail and the graded West Canyon Road, or challenge yourself on trails like Paradise Rim, Rusty Cliffs, Lange's Dugway and Mustang Pass. Remember park entry fees and that many trails are multi-use. Check trail conditions before you go.
Explore Lava Tubes & Caves

Add an adventurous twist to your Snow Canyon visit and discover a unique perspective on Utah’s geological past at the Lava Tubes. Within these subterranean wonders, you’ll see remnants of ancient volcanic activity. Some tubes are easily accessible while others require a bit more scrambling. Remember to bring headlamps or flashlights to illuminate these dark and captivating spaces and exercise caution while exploring.
Hiking

Snow Canyon State Park offers hiking trails for any skill level, from leisurely, family-friendly strolls to advanced hikes. Enjoy being in nature on easy routes like Jenny's Canyon Trail or the paved Whiptail Trail. For moderate-level routes, hikers can explore the Hidden Pinyon Trail or the scenic Johnson Canyon Trail (seasonal access). Advanced hikers or those seeking a challenge can conquer the steep ascent of Cinder Cone Trail, the varied terrain of Gila Trail or the 6.3-mile out-and-back Padre Canyon Trail. Whatever your skill level, discover the breathtaking beauty of red rock country on Snow Canyon's diverse trails. Remember to check trail conditions and come prepared with water and snacks to enjoy your experience.
Horseback Riding

Explore Snow Canyon’s stunning horseback riding trails that wind through red rock canyons, ancient lava flows and desert landscapes. Riders can take designated equestrian trails like the Whiptail and West Canyon trails, which offer a peaceful escape into nature amongst incredible scenery. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable riding experience.
Rock Climbing

The attraction of numerous bolted routes throughout the canyon lures rock climbers of all skill levels. The Circus and adjacent Aftershock wall are the most popular, with routes from 5.7 through 5.10.
Sand Dunes/Rock Hopping

Kids love playing on the park’s dunes off the main road or scrambling on the boulders across the canyon floor.
Wildlife Viewing

The park provides unique wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk when coyotes, kit foxes, quail and roadrunners come out to feed. The protected desert tortoises, peregrine falcons and Gila monsters are harder to find. The park is also connected to the larger Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, a unique national conservation area that protects sensitive habitats and endangered species.

Discover Snow Canyon State Park

Hiking-in-Snow-Canyon-by-Utah-State-Park-Service

Photo: Utah State Park Service

Snow Canyon Entry Fee & Camping

A day-use pass or Annual Utah State Park Pass is required for entry and can be purchased in person or online. Entry costs $15.00 per vehicle and $5.00 for pedestrians or cyclists for non-residents.

The campground at Snow Canyon State Park includes 14 RV sites with water and electrical hook-ups and 17 multi-use campsites. Pets are only allowed at the campground on West Canyon Road and Whiptail Trail. Advance camping reservations are recommended. Outside the park, St. George offers many campsites to choose from.

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Directions to Snow Canyon State Park

From I-15 northbound: Take exit 6 (Bluff Street) and continue north to the intersection with Snow Canyon Parkway. Take a left onto Snow Canyon Parkway and continue approximately 3.5 miles. Turn right onto Snow Canyon Drive and follow the road to the park’s south entrance.

From I-15 southbound: Take exit 10 (Washington), turn right off the ramp and take an immediate left at the light. This will take you onto Red Hills Parkway, which you’ll follow for about five miles as it parallels the interstate. Follow this road to the intersection with Bluff Street/SR-18, proceed through that light and you’ll be on Snow Canyon Parkway. Follow this for about 3.5 miles and then turn right onto Snow Canyon Drive. This road will lead you to the park’s south entrance.