Snow Canyon State Park, a local's guide
Snow Canyon is 15 minutes from downtown St. George, in Ivins. It has red and white sandstone, old lava flows, and short hikes that work for families, which makes it the easiest big-scenery outing in the area.
Happening near here
- 2026-10-12Les MisérablesTuacahn Amphitheatre
- 2026-10-12St. George Concert in the Park Series 2026Vernon Worthen Park
- 2026-10-12Huntsman World Senior Games 2026Dixie Convention Center
- 2026-10-12Expressions of the Soul Art ShowRed Cliff Gallery
- 2026-10-122026 Scarecrow Walk & Haunted CanyonRed Hills Desert Garden
- 2026-10-12Staheli Farms Fall Festival 2026Staheli Family Farm
- 2026-10-12Daniel Ray: Found / FramedEccles Fine Arts Center
- 2026-10-12Audition WorkshopThe Electric Theater Center
Best hikes in Snow Canyon
Jenny's Canyon is a short slot canyon that's great for kids. The Lava Tubes trail leads to caves you can climb into, so bring a flashlight. Petrified Dunes is open slickrock to wander, Pioneer Names is an easy walk, and Johnson Canyon (seasonal) ends at an arch. Whiptail and the paved bike path run the length of the canyon.
See hikes and conditionsWhen to go
Spring, fall and winter are ideal. In summer, hike at sunrise and be off the trail by late morning, because the sandstone gets very hot and there's little shade. Some areas close seasonally to protect wildlife.
Fees and getting there
Snow Canyon is a Utah state park, so there's a per-vehicle day-use fee at the entrance. Enter from the south through Ivins, or from the north off State Route 18. Parking at the popular trailheads fills on weekend mornings.
Near Snow Canyon
Tuacahn Amphitheatre sits just west of the park, so a morning hike and an evening show make an easy day. Kayenta and Ivins have galleries and places to eat.
See events this weekCommon questions
How far is Snow Canyon from St. George?
About 15 minutes (roughly 10 miles) from downtown St. George, via Ivins or State Route 18.
Is there a fee to enter Snow Canyon State Park?
Yes. Snow Canyon charges a per-vehicle day-use fee, paid at the entrance.
What is the best easy hike in Snow Canyon?
Jenny's Canyon, Pioneer Names and the Lava Tubes are short, easy hikes that work well for families.
Are dogs allowed in Snow Canyon?
Leashed dogs are allowed on the paved trail and a few designated trails, but not on most hiking trails.
When is the best time to visit Snow Canyon?
Fall through spring. In summer, go at sunrise because the sandstone gets very hot by midday.