Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon State Park is a state park in southwestern Utah near St. George that protects red Navajo sandstone and basalt lava features across roughly 7,400 acres. It is known for contrasting white and red sandstone formations and accessible desert scenery.

The park’s highlights include broad sculpted sandstone dunes, lava flows and cinder cones, and a network of short to moderate hiking trails. Key viewpoints include the Petrified Dunes and several overlooks along the main road that allow close-up views of cross-bedded sandstone and basalt features.

The area was developed for public recreation in the 20th century and later designated and managed as a Utah state park to protect its scenic geology and provide trails and picnic facilities. Park facilities and trails have been added and maintained for day use and camping.

Snow Canyon sits just northwest of the city of St. George in Washington County, Utah, on the fringes of the Mojave Desert and Colorado Plateau transition. The park lies along a scenic valley road with parking and trailheads that are a short drive from the city.

• Photography tip: Best light for photography is early morning or late afternoon when the sandstone shows strong red and orange tones.
• Access and trail conditions: Paved and unpaved roads provide access; some popular short trails are suitable for families while others require hiking footwear and water.

What to See #

• Petrified Dunes: A broad area of Navajo sandstone dunes and cross-bedded sandstone formations that includes the park's most-photographed red rock outcrops and the Petrified Dunes trail.
• Lava Flow and Cinder Cone: Basalt lava flows and a prominent cinder cone formed by relatively recent volcanic activity in the area, visible from short overlooks and the Lava Flow Trail.
• Johnson Canyon: A short canyon with established walking routes and easy access from the main park road; commonly used as a shady hike and photography spot.