Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Among Utah's most scenic state parks, SnowCanyon ★★ offers an abundance of
opportunities for photography and hiking. The park is surrounded by rock cliffs
and walls of Navajo sandstone in every shade of red imaginable, layered with
white and black from ancient lava flows. Hike the trails and discover shifting sand
dunes, mysterious lava caves, colorful desert plants, and a variety of rock form-
ations. You'll also encounter an attractive cactus garden and several ancient pet-
roglyphs. (Ask park rangers for directions.) By the way, don't come here looking
for snow—the canyon was named for pioneers Lorenzo and Erastus Snow, who re-
portedly discovered it.
Essentials
Because the summers here are hot—well over 100°F (38°C)—the best time to visit is
any other time. Winters are mild, but nights can be chilly. Spring and fall are usu-
ally perfect weather-wise, and are therefore the busiest. Elevation is 3,200 feet.
GETTING THERE From Zion National Park, follow Utah 9 to exit 16 off I-15, head
south to St. George (exit 8), and take Utah 18 northwest to the park's entrance road.
INFORMATION, FEES & REGULATIONS For a copy of the park's brochure and other
information, contact SnowCanyonStatePark, 1002 Snow Canyon Dr., Ivins, UT
84738-6194 ( & 435/628-2255 ), or stop at the visitor center, open daily, when you ar-
rive. Information is also available online at www.stateparks.utah.gov . The day-use
fee is $6 per vehicle. As in most Utah state parks, dogs are welcome, including on
trails, but must be leashed.
CAMPING The park's 31-site campground ★★ is one of the best in the Utah state
park system. One section has rather closely spaced sites with electric and water
hookups; those not needing hookups can set up camp in delightful little side
canyons, surrounded by colorful red rocks and Utah juniper. The views are spec-
tacular no matter where you choose to set up. Facilities include hot showers, mod-
ern restrooms, and an RV dump station. Campsites with hookups cost $20, while
those without are $16. Reservations (with an $8 nonrefundable reservation fee) are
recommended February through May and September through November; call &
800/322-3770 or 801/322-3770, or visit www.reserveamerica.com.
Sports & Activities
HIKING The best way to see Snow Canyon is on foot, and the park has 16 miles of
trails. Several short trails make for easy full- or half-day hikes. The HiddenPiñon
Trail is a 1.5-mile round-trip self-guided nature trail that wanders among lava
rocks, through several canyons, and onto rocky flatlands, offering panoramic views
of the surrounding mountains. The trail begins across the highway from the camp-
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