Estimated read time: 6-7 minutes
Snow Canyon is often overshadowed by nearby Zion National Park, but it is no little brother. The unofficial motto could be, "This place would be a national park in any other state!"
The state park, designated in 1959 as one of Utah's first state parks, is a destination in its own right. It's known for its otherworldly beauty that made Snow Canyon the backdrop of famous Hollywood westerns like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," according to the Utah State Parks website.
With scenic hiking, biking, horseback riding, and much more, Snow Canyon boasts activities for every type of vacationer or day tripper. So pack up your hiking boots, bikes, and sunscreen, and make sure to stop at Maverik on the way to fuel up on gas and your favorite snacks and drinks.
Start every adventure with Maverik
Maverik’s got you covered with great values on fuel, food, drinks and more. Check out maverik.com to find a location near you. Maverik — Adventure’s First Stop.Hiking and climbing
Located just outside of St. George in Ivins, Snow Canyon boasts more than 38 miles of hiking trails through red sandstone and lava rock. Needless to say, the hiking is exquisite. There are trails ranging from a three-mile paved trail (that is stroller and wheelchair friendly) to more challenging routes if you're up for an adventure.
Padre Canyon Trail is a popular 6.3-mile out-and-back route that, according to AllTrails, gains more than 1000 feet in elevation. Scout Cave Trail is a family-friendly yet still challenging hike that rewards you with an amazing cave overlook at the top. Whether you're after slot canyons or lava tubes, you can find a little of everything to explore on foot in Snow Canyon.
If rock climbing is your thing, you're in luck. Southern Utah is a climbing mecca and Snow Canyon is home to dozens of traditional climbing routes, ranging from easy 5.7s to challenging 5.12s. Mountain Project has a full list of climbs for those who want to plan a trip.
Snow Canyon even has two canyoneering routes—a combination of hiking and rappelling you can't get many other places. Both routes require a permit, which you can purchase from the State Parks website.
Bike like an Ironman
If you're looking for world-class cycling, look no further. The famous St. George Ironman race zips right through Snow Canyon—a stretch known as a dazzling killer that makes or breaks races.
In a 2022 article for Triathlon magazine, Susan Lacke says, "Without a doubt, Snow Canyon State Park is the most beautiful segment of the Ironman St. George course. Just about every news story, promotional pamphlet, or blog about the full- or half-distance event features a photo of cyclists riding through the striated red-rock formations of the park."
Ironman or not, any cycling enthusiast can enjoy a gorgeous (and tough!) ride through Snow Canyon's roads.
For mountain bikers, West Canyon Road is a dirt and gravel road that will take you on an adventure traversing a part of the park you can't see from any other trails or roads. If horseback riding is more your style, Snow Canyon has 15 miles of equestrian trails to enjoy a scenic desert ride.
Kid-friendly activities
With all due respect to the stunning natural beauty of the Snow Canyon Sand Dunes, it's basically a giant sandbox—your toddler's dream come true! Many families like to let little ones have a heyday in the plentiful sand that's just a short distance from the parking lot. Bring sand toys and buckets and watch the magic happen.
If your child is fascinated by the natural world, stop by the Visitor Center to pick up a Junior Ranger program booklet. Once they've successfully checked off skills such as identifying animal tracks and matching leaves to trees, they can return to the Visitor Center to take the official Junior Park Ranger pledge and earn a badge.
St. George's best eats
At many of Utah's National Parks, food accommodations are few and far between. Not true of Snow Canyon. The park's location is just a few minutes from downtown St. George, giving visitors access to a booming food scene.
According to Google reviews, highly recommended spots are Pica Rica BBQ, Angelica's Mexican Grill, Benja Thai and Sushi, and Morty's Café. Cool off afterward with dessert at Paletas Gourmet Creamsicles at 73 South Main Street.
Where to stay
There's no better way to escape the hustle and bustle of life than to spend a few nights under the stars. Snow Canyon State Park can give you that dark-sky experience surrounded by red rocks and petroglyphs at one of the 26 campsites. Most of the sites have RV hookups so you can camp in a tent or RV. To book a campsite, reserve your spot on the State Parks website, but be aware that weekend slots fill up quickly.
If you prefer an air-conditioned hotel room, there are plenty of options near the park. Arcadia Resort is just 5 minutes from the park entrance and has an oasis-like water park area that is truly second to none. Marriott's Adventure, an Autograph Collection hotel, offers stylish rooms and proximity to some of St. George's best restaurants.
Park fees
Snow Canyon is easy to find and navigate through. Once you're there you'll need to pay a $10 fee to get a car day pass for a vehicle of up to eight people (or use your Utah State Parks annual pass, if you have one). For seniors, the cost is $5 for a day pass. If you only want to hike or bike into the park, it is also $5. For all other information like park hours or equipment rentals, visit Snow Canyon's website.
Utah Adventures with Maverik: Find adventure, history on the Pony Express Trail
With the Pony Express, mail and news was sent and received between Missouri and California in as little as 10 days. The Pony Express was discontinued after the transcontinental telegraph line made its debut. But before the Express' demise, mail was delivered quickly and efficiently and Utah played a critical role. There were 27 stops in Utah. Many of those places are still available to check out today.Adventure's First Stop
Wherever you explore in Utah, make sure to fuel up and grab some food at one of the Maverik locations. Maverik's Nitro Card saves you 10 cents off every gallon, every day with additional high-value benefits on its huge selection of tasty food and drinks. Maverik's premium BonFire food made fresh in every Maverik features breakfast and lunch burritos, sandwiches, pizzas, salads and more. New dishes to amp up your spring road trip feature premium hardwood smoked burnt ends including the Burnt Ends and Hatch Green Chili Mac n' Cheese; Burnt Ends Breakfast Burrito; Burnt Ends and Tots Burrito; and later this summer the Burnt Ends Pizza.
To save on every gallon of gas and get special offers on Maverik's fresh-made BonFire food, drinks, and snacks, download the Maverik app to join the Adventure Club and activate your Nitro Card.
