The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Snow Canyon State Park near St George, UT
- Arika Bauer
- 6 days ago
- 5 min read
Hey! It’s Arika here, and today I’m sharing all about a place that holds a really special place in my heart—Snow Canyon State Park. I grew up visiting this stunning park and have so many memories hiking its trails, climbing its red rocks, and soaking in its peaceful desert beauty. Whether I'm visiting Snow Canyon State Park with my kids or solo with my camera, this spot always brings me a deep sense of calm and connection.
This hidden gem near St. George, Utah is packed with scenic hiking trails, stunning Navajo sandstone formations, ancient lava rock (basalt), and sweeping desert views. Whether you're coming to explore, unwind, or snap a few epic photos, I’m here to help you visit Snow Canyon State Park like a local!
Why I Love Snow Canyon
One of the things I love most about Snow Canyon State Park—besides the jaw-dropping landscape—is how peaceful and lightly trafficked it is. Even on busier days, the park’s spaciousness makes it easy to find solitude. It’s my kind of place. 🧡
Even better? It’s super close to some of Southern Utah’s best shopping, dining, and hotels, which makes it a perfect day trip from St. George you can easily pencil into any Utah adventure itinerary.
***Beware that during holiday weekends this park can get very busy.
Where is Snow Canyon State Park?
Snow Canyon State Park is located in Dammeron Valley, Utah—just 10 minutes north of St. George and about a one-hour drive from Zion National Park. It’s right in the heart of Southern Utah’s red rock country.
Driving Distances:
Zion National Park – 1 hour
Lake Powell – 2.5 hours
Kanab, Utah – 1.5 hours
Coral Pink Sand Dunes – 1 hour
North Rim Grand Canyon – 3 hours
Valley of Fire State Park – 1 hour 40 min
Bryce Canyon National Park – 2 hours 40 min
Las Vegas – 2 hours
Cedar City – 1 hour
Brian Head – 1.5 hours
Duck Creek Village – 1.5 hours
Best Time to Visit Snow Canyon
Winter, spring, and fall are ideal for visiting thanks to mild desert temperatures. But if you’re heading there in summer, go early in the morning or later in the evening to beat the heat—and don’t forget to bring plenty of water!
Good to Know Before You Go
🛣️ Two Entrances: Snow Canyon has a north and south entrance. Most visitors enter through the south gate near Ivins, which brings you straight into the main canyon. The north entrance, accessed via Highway 18, is perfect if you're coming from the scenic overlook or doing outer trails like White Rocks.
🕓 Park Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, year-round.
🐾 Pets: Dogs are allowed on West Canyon Road, Whiptail Trail, and Paradise Canyon—but must be on a leash at all times. Please pack out pet waste and keep them off fragile desert terrain and other trails.
✅ Entrance fee applies for main canyon access. Trails outside the park are free.
Utah Residents:
$10 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
$5 per vehicle (up to 8 people) for seniors 65+ (with UT driver’s license)
$3 per pedestrian / cyclist
Non-Residents:
$15 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
$3 for pedestrian / cyclist
✅ Pack out what you pack in to help preserve this fragile desert ecosystem. Never write on the rock walls and practice Leave No Trace principles.
✅ Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and layers—desert weather changes fast!
Best Hikes & Outdoor Adventures in Snow Canyon
Snow Canyon State Park hiking trails offer a mix of red cliffs, lava fields, slot canyons, and white rock formations. Here are some of the best hikes in Snow Canyon for families, photographers, and adventure seekers:
Petrified Sand Dunes
1.2 miles out and backOne of the park’s most iconic and photogenic spots! Giant Navajo sandstone mounds are fun for kids to scramble on and perfect for family photography or a casual hike with amazing views.
Sand Dunes Area
Just a short walk from the parking lotA favorite spot for kids to play and explore! These soft, golden dunes are ideal for free play, quick runs up and down the hills, and letting little ones burn off energy.
Jenny’s Canyon
0.5 miles round tripA quick, easy, and magical walk to a slot canyon tucked into the cliffs. Great for escaping the heat and snapping red rock canyon photos.
Lava Tube Trail
2.3 miles out and backBring a flashlight and get ready for a fun adventure through lava fields! Explore three small caves and enjoy the contrast of white rock and basalt formations.
Butterfly Trail
2 miles round tripA scenic, family-friendly trail that connects to the Petrified Dunes and Lava Flow trails. Look for the butterfly-shaped rock formation and enjoy stunning desert landscape views.
E-bike the canyon
Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on Whiptail Trail and West Canyon Road, making them a fun and easy way to explore the canyon. You can rent e-bikes from Rampage Rentals just outside the park entrance and ride straight in! These paved and gravel paths offer a fun and scenic ride through the park—just be mindful of pedestrians and yield on busy days
CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BOOKING A PHOTOSHOOT IN ZION
Trails And Adventures On the Outskirts of Snow Canyon
These spots are just outside the main entrance—perfect for free hiking, scenic drives, or casual sunset strolls.
Snow Canyon Scenic Overlook
A drive-up viewpoint offering breathtaking canyon views—ideal for sunset watching.
White Rocks Trail
Stunning white sandstone formations, seasonal wildflowers, and lava rock outcrops. A peaceful, photogenic trail great for casual hikers and photographers.
Scout Cave Trail
3.6 miles out and backThis moderate trail weaves through lava rock and desert terrain before arriving at a unique cave with panoramic views. It’s one of the best moderate hikes in Snow Canyon—great for active families.
Johnson Canyon Trail
2 miles out and back (Seasonal Access: Nov–March)This easy, flat trail leads to a box canyon with a natural rock arch. Shady, scenic, and peaceful—perfect for cooler months when it’s open.
CAMPING IN SNOW CANYON STATE PARK
Snow Canyon offers a peaceful, well-maintained campground near the visitor center. It’s a scenic place to stay and makes a great basecamp for exploring Southern Utah. Reserve your site at ReserveAmerica.com.
Where to Eat Near Snow Canyon
After a day of hiking, here are my go-to places to eat near Snow Canyon State Park:
Rylus (12 min) – Upscale French-German fusion. Great for a romantic dinner near St. George.
Iceberg Drive Inn (13 min) – Classic St. George burger joint. Perfect for families!
Wood. Ash. Rye. (13 min) – Creative, chef-driven menu with seasonal ingredients. One of the best restaurants in St. George.
Xetava Gardens Café (10 min) – Tucked in Ivins, this casual spot has amazing patio views and a tasty variety of Southwestern-inspired fare.
Riggatti’s Wood-Fired Pizza (12 min) – Crispy crusts, fresh toppings, and creative combos. A local pizza favorite!
Don’t Miss: Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Just minutes from Snow Canyon, Tuacahn Amphitheatre is a must-see! This outdoor venue in Southern Utah sits at the base of towering red cliffs and hosts Broadway-style musicals, concerts, and special events. The natural acoustics and scenery make for a magical experience.
Snow Canyon State Park is a true hidden gem—easy to reach, full of natural beauty, and perfect for every kind of adventurer. Whether you’re hiking, camping, stargazing, or just soaking in the red rock views, you’re going to fall in love with this place.
Go experience it for yourself—and let me know what you think!
Happy Adventuring,
Arika
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