Snow Canyon State Park

Just 10 minutes north of St. George is Snow Canyon State Park.


Named for one of the early settlers of the region, the park rarely sees real snow, but rather is a geological wonder of red and white sandstone formations with a coating of lava for good measure.

Years of erosion have left arches and towers of stone in the park, but more recent volcanic activity in the region has added a layer of lava to various sections. Features in the park include; sand dunes, lava caves and arches.

 Snow Canyon State Park
Photo© Clint Crawley
Snow Canyon State Park
Photo © Bryce Thatcher

Rock climbing

Rock climbing is a popular activity along with mountain biking and horse-back riding. Snow Canyon is characterized by its magnificent variety of forms and colors. Red and white Navajo sandstone are juxtaposed against ancient black lava beds and the brilliant blue sky.

Snow Canyon State Park
Photo© Clint Crawley

Among all this delightful geologic chaos you'll discover sand dunes, creek bottoms, caves, cacti and wildflowers. Photography, hiking, climbing and camping are the most popular activities in Snow Canyon. There are a number of excellent hiking trails accessible from parking lots just off the main road.

The area's moderate winter climate makes early spring and fall visitation very appealing. Geology buffs will especially enjoy the volcanic cones of "recent" origin (1,000 to 2,000 years old).

Three endangered species; peregrine falcon, desert tortoise and gila monsters are found within the park along with a diverse population of mammals, birds and reptiles. There is a 36-unit campground, rest rooms, hot showers, electric hook-ups, and covered group-use pavilion.

Campgrounds:

Snow Canyon State ParkCampgrounds in the park available for reservation by calling 1-800-322-3770. Currently there is a day-use fee of $5.00, per vehicle, to stop in the park.

For More Information Contact Snow Canyon State Park at P.O. Box 140, Santa Clara, Utah 84765-0140, (435) 628-2255. Snow Canyon State Park is a fee area.

Dixie National Forest

The lower section of the Dixie National Forest borders the city of St. George. Snow is common through the winter above 6,000 feet and sections of the Pine Valley mountains are excellent for winter sports. Campgrounds are available at various locations around the Pine Valley mountains and over 100 miles of trails ascend from the valleys to peaks to the plateau at over 10,000 feet.

Pine Valley Ranger District
196 East Tabernacle Street, Room 40
St. George, Utah 84770
652-3100

Scenic Drives:

Some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world is visible from scenic byways and backways. Within minutes of St. George, Hurricane or Springdale you can find yourself on a quiet desert road, a peaceful mountain peak, or deep within a majestic canyon.

Public Lands:

This is much more than just a pretty place to look at. To truly experience it you've got to get out of the car and hike, climb, camp, bike, boat, fish, horseback ride, or any number of other outdoor activities that put you in direct contact with the magnificent landscape. The majority of the land you see here is public land administered by the Bureau of Land Management. Dixie National Forest administers much of the higher mountain lands. For more information on BLM and Forest Service lands, visit the Interagency Visitor Center at 345 East Riverside Drive in St. George, or call (435) 688-3246.

Visitor Information - Call Toll Free 1-800-869-6635