Berm Trail

• Trail Access: Berm Trailhead, 100 E in Ivins
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Bike, Equestrian
• Distance (round trip): 2 miles/3.2km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 1 hour
• Printable Guide: Berm

Trail Description

From the Berm Trailhead, keep right to follow the trail along the top of the dike, enjoying views of sandstone mesas to the left and the city of Ivins to the right. Keep following the trail east–after about one mile, you will come upon a fork that branches to the right. This is where the Berm Trail converges with the Toe Trail. To continue on the Berm Trail, continue past this trail on the right and keep straight to head east towards Tuacahn Drive. The Berm Trail ends at Tuacahn Drive where it connects with a paved trail. 

Special Features

The Berm trailhead begins with a fork in the trail–keep right to follow the top of the dike or left to follow the maintenance road into the valley between the dike and the cliffs. Hikers can choose either of these paths, but must stay on the trail they choose during the hike. The top route is level and features a compact, crushed rock surface. 

Safety and Considerations

Minimal shade may result in prolonged sun exposure. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring water. 

Hidden Pinyon

• Trail Access: Hidden Pinyon Trailhead or Campground Picnic Area
• Allowable Uses: Hike
• Distance (round trip): 1.5 miles/2.4km
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Hiking Time: 45 minutes
• Printable Guide: Hidden Pinyon Trail Guide

Trail Description

From the signed trailhead, take a right onto the paved Whiptail trail and head uphill to the first signed left hand turn. From the Campground Picnic Area, cross the street and follow the trail, turn right onto the Whiptail trail heading north then left at the first signed turn. From this point, you will enter a winding rock passage with cliffs lined in lichen, moss and desert varnish. The passageway opens and the trail merges with Red Sands trail. Head north until the next intersection. Follow signage for Hidden Pinyon to the left. This leads across a sage flat, down through a boulder passage and into a hidden canyon framing views of the Petrified Dunes and white cliffs to the north. The trail soon reconnects with the Red Sands trail at a T-intersection. Take a right and follow this route along a sandstone ledge, past the “Hidden Pinyon” and back to the trailhead. 

Special Features

Nineteen metal posts make educational stops along this self-guided nature trail. A trail guide is available at a trailside kiosk or visitor center for those hikers seeking a deeper understanding of plants and geologic features seen along the hike. 

Safety and Considerations

Portions of this trail feature ledges or uneven rock surfaces. Wear suitable footwear. 

Jenny’s Canyon

• Trail Access: Jenny’s Canyon Trailhead
• Allowable Uses: Hike
• Distance (round trip): 0.5 mile/0.8km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 20 minutes
• Printable Guide: Jenny’s Canyon
• Trail Description

From the signed trailhead, head east along the sandy trail towards the visible shrub-like trees and rock cliffs. When you reach the dry wash, cross directly and follow the trail until you reach a T-intersection at the base of the cliffs. From here, choose to go left into the slot canyon or right to climb up to a scenic overlook. 

Special Features

The differential erosion rates of the sandstone make for amazing textures in the slot canyon walls. Look closely at the wind-carved pockets higher in the slot. You may see signs of a nesting owl, raven or peregrine falcon. In spring, the approach to the slot canyon is flanked by bush penstemon and other colorful wildflowers. 

Safety and Considerations

Portions of this trail feature deep sand or uneven rock surfaces. Wear suitable footwear. 

Johnson Canyon

• Trail Access: Johnson Canyon Trailhead via Scout Cave Trail
• Allowable Uses: Hike
• Distance (round trip): 2 miles/3.2km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 1 hour
• Printable Guide: Johnson Canyon

Trail Description

Access to Johnson Canyon is along a route shared with Scout Cave trail. Along the first 1/3 mile, hikers traverse a somewhat rugged lava field dotted with small craters and rises. Continue straight when reaching the first intersection 1/3 of a mile in where Scout Cave trail turns off to the right. From here, the trail leaves the lava field and heads directly across a dry stream bed skirting the edge of a small cliff. As the trail rounds the bend into Johnson Canyon, a wooden fence marks the view of Johnson’s Arch. The hike ends shortly after at the rear of the canyon where a shady vegetated area makes for a perfect spot to rest and have a snack. Closed annually from March 15 to September 14 except by ranger guided hike.

Special Features

This popular trail leads to a verdant canyon important for wildlife and used by several human cultures throughout the history of the region. Hikers may see remnants of a historical pipe once used to transport water from Snow Spring to agricultural areas in Ivins. After steady rains, a 200 foot (60.96 meter) waterfall often flows at the end of the canyon creating a large pool. This hike is closed annually from March 15th to September 14th for wildlife and habitat protection. 

Safety and Considerations

Portions of this trail feature uneven rock surfaces and drop-offs. Wear suitable footwear. 

Pioneer Names

• Trail Access: Pioneer Names Trailhead
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Rock Climb, Scramble*
• Distance (round trip): 0.5 miles/0.8km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 20 minutes
• Printable Guide: Pioneer Names

Trail Description

This trail has two access points along Snow Canyon Drive and a roadside connector that allows hikers to make a small loop. Starting from the northernmost parking area, the trail heads east towards three alcoves. A bit of scrambling (scrambling permitted on sandstone near the names) allows hikers to climb up to the smallest alcove on the left for views of the names and dates left behind by early pioneers. From here, the trail leads south along the bottom of the towering cliffs to a shaded area with hackberry trees, walls covered in resurrection moss and a small natural arch. 

Special Features

This short trail features historical markers, rock climbing access and the most shade of any hike in the park. During and after rain, this trail has several waterfalls and a wall of vivid green moss that stands out brilliantly against the red sandstone. 

Safety and Considerations

Hikers should be cautious of falling rocks. Wear suitable footwear. 

Sand Dunes

• Trail Access: Sand Dunes Picnic Area
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Picnic
• Distance (round trip): 0.5 miles/0.8km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 15 minutes
• Printable Guide: Sand Dunes

Trail Description

This trail begins at the Sand Dunes Picnic Area. From the Picnic area, head south towards the large expanse of red sand surrounded by basalt, sandstone, and sagebrush. Following this trail, you will hike through deep, shifting sands while seeing views of sandstone cliffs to the west and to the east. The mapped route leads from one edge of the sand dunes to the other, and ends at the outskirts of the dunes where the terrain turns from sand into rock, packed dirt and plants. At the end of the trail, you can head to the western edge of the dunes and join the paved Whiptail trail, or turn back towards the dunes. 

Special Features

While on the sand dunes themselves, you do not have to stay on-trail or follow the mapped route. These dunes serve as a giant sandbox and play area for adults and children of all ages, so feel free to explore and relax. For visitors requiring a shorter, easier access point, a small roadside parking lot is available 

Safety and Considerations

Deep sand, slopes, and minimal shade may make hiking difficult. Wear appropriate footwear and bring water. 

Toe

• Trail Access: Toe Trailhead on Snow Canyon Dr. or Tuacahn Dr.
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Bike, Equestrian
• Distance (round trip): 2.2 miles/3.5km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 1 hour
• Printable Guide: Toe Trail

Trail Description

At the Toe Trailhead (adjacent to Snow Canyon Drive), head west on the dirt path that lies on the northern edge of the neighborhood. The trail consists of level and evenly packed dirt as it curves between creosote bushes and other vegetation, with views of sandstone mesas on the right. After passing a bend that leads in a southwest direction, the trail becomes slightly more sandy. You may notice a few off-shoot trails branching towards the houses on the left–these are access points to nearby neighborhoods. Pass these off-shoots and continue west on the main trail. After crossing a wash, you’ll walk among very small, rolling mounds as you approach Tuacahn Drive. Head west to cross the street, rejoining the dirt trail on the other side as it leads you northwest towards the sandstone cliffs. The Toe Trail ends when it meets the Berm Trail. 

Special Features

A family friendly stroll through sand sage and creosote habitat with views of Red Mountain. This is excellent wildlife habitat. Be alert; slow your speed; and share the trail with other user and wildlife. Protect sensitive habitat by staying to the mapped trail. 

Safety and Considerations

Minimal shade may result in prolonged sun exposure. Wear appropriate clothing, and bring water. 

Tortoise Walk

• Trail Access: Upper Galoot Picnic Area
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Bike
• Distance (round trip): 0.3 miles/0.5km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 10 minutes
• Printable Guide: Tortoise Walk
• Trail Description

On the eastern side of the Upper Galoot Picnic Area between the restrooms and the picnic tables, a wide and level trail takes you past wayside exhibits that narrate the life and struggles of the Mojave desert tortoise. This compact, crushed rock trail ends in a seating area with a 4,200-pound tortoise sculpture carved out of granite, and sweeping views of basalt and sandstone cliffs. 

Special Features

A family-friendly walk that is also ADA accessible.

Safety and Considerations

Minimal shade may result in prolonged sun exposure. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and bring water. 

West Canyon Road

• Trail Access: Sand Dunes Picnic Area
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Bike, Equestrian
• Distance (round trip): 8 miles/12.9km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Printable Guide: West Canyon

Trail Description

This narrow gravel road is closed to most vehicles making it very popular for biking running and horseback riding. Beginning at the iron gate in the north end of the Sand Dunes picnic area, the road rolls along the valley bottom climbing slightly until reaching a dead-end near the base of towering white cliffs. 

Special Features

Along the route users are treated to expansive views of the park’s geologic features. Seven small wells adjacent to the road tap deep into the underlying sandstone and Navajo Aquifer, bringing drinking water to the park and surrounding communities. 

Safety and Considerations

Maintenance trucks and emergency vehicles periodically share the road. 

Whiptail

• Trail Access: Whiptail Trailhead 
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Bike
• Distance (round trip): 6 miles/ km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Hiking Time: 3 hours
• Printable Guide: Whiptail

Trail Description

From the Upper Galoot parking lot, head west to cross the street and stay to the paved trail. After passing the Petrified Dunes spur on the right, the trail continues to descend southward, providing views of lava flows and ridges to the left (east) and sandstone cliffs to the right (west). You will notice various marked trails that connect to the paved trail, such as Hidden Pinyon on the right (west) and Pioneer Names on the left (east). After passing the Pioneer Names junction, the trail curves right towards the west and passes between sandstone cliffs and the Sand Dunes area. Once past the Sand Dunes, the trail bends east and crosses the road. The Snow Canyon portion of the Whiptail Trail ends just above the residential neighborhoods to the south. However, the paved trail continues out of the park and connects with a larger paved system that travels throughout the greater St. George area. 

Special Features

Spanning ¾ of the length of the park, this trail is an excellent way to experience a wide variety of scenery that the park has to offer. This is a paved trail suitable for bikes and hikers. It runs alongside Snow Canyon Drive and, after leaving the park through the south entrance, the trail connects with a larger paved trail system maintained by the city. Follow posted speed limits and note that scooters and skateboards are not permitted. 

Safety and Considerations

This trail is shared by hikers and bikers alike. Be conscious of bikes and people moving at different speeds. 

Butterfly

• Trail Access: Petrified Dunes/Butterfly Trailhead
• Allowable Uses: Hike
• Distance (round trip): 2 miles/3.2km
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking Time: 1 hour
• Printable Guide: Butterfly

Trail Description

The hike begins at the trailhead shared with Petrified Dunes. From the parking area, head west towards the sandstone hills keeping straight at the first intersection. From here, the trail crosses the exposed sandstone and turns right, down a steep natural staircase towards a small thicket of scrub oak at the bottom. The trail follows along the base of the sandstone outcroppings in a northern direction before veering left across basalt lava flows and a dry creek bed. The hike ends at the T-intersection with the Lava Flow trail. Head left on the Lava Flow trail to see one of our two lava tubes.

Special Features

Hikers will notice the “Butterfly” rock, a sandstone slab split in half resembling a butterfly with its wings splayed. Hikers often combine this hike with the Lava Flow trail and Snow Canyon Drive to make a loop. 

Safety and Considerations

This trail features steep slopes and uneven surfaces. Wear suitable footwear. 

Lava Flow

• Trail Access: Lava Flow Trailhead
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Equestrian*
• Distance (round trip): 2.5 miles/4km
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking Time: 1.5 hours
• Printable Guide: Lava Flow

Trail Description

From the Lava Flow trailhead, the trail follows a lava flow dotted with cactus, yucca, and ephedra before arriving at a dry wash bottom. From here, the trail leads directly across and climbs slightly to reach a high point along the expansive lava flow. Approximately 1/2 mile in, the Whiterocks trail enters from the right. Continuing straight along the sloping lava field, an education sign marks the entrance to the first of two lava tubes. Beyond this point, the trail gently heads downhill to a three way intersection, with the Butterfly trail entering from the left. Continue straight towards a pyramid shaped sandstone knoll. The trail makes a sharp bend to the right around the entrance of the 2nd lava tube. Beyond the cave entrance, the trail winds down hill and crosses a white sand drainage before ending at the intersection with West Canyon Road. 

Special Features

This trail offers hikers a closeup view of a 27,000 year old lava flow. Along the way, hikers will find four education signs with information on geology and cave wildlife. The 3rd and 4th education signs mark the entrances to two lava tubes that hikers can explore. 

*Equestrian use permitted on the Lava Flow trail from West Canyon Road to Whiterocks intersection. 

Safety and Considerations

Uneven rock surfaces. Wear suitable footwear and bring flashlights to enter the tubes. Absolutely no glow sticks permitted.

Petrified Dunes

Trail Access: Petrified Dunes Trailhead, Whiptail or Upper Galoot parking lot

• Allowable Uses: Hike, Scramble
• Distance (round trip): 1.2 miles/1.9km
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking Time: 40 minutes
• Printable Guide: Petrified Dunes

Trail Description

From the Petrified Dunes/Butterfly parking lot, follow the trail west. Keep left at the first junction and head towards the sandstone mounds–these are the Petrified Dunes. Stay on-trail while approaching the dunes. Upon reaching the sandstone, you will notice iron domes with arrows on them. Following these arrows leads hikers from the north to south ends of the dunes, passing through the peak of the dunes on the way. Near the third dome, a side trail originating at the Upper Galoot parking lot joins the main route from the left (east). Continuing, the trail crests the high point and descends a steep slope towards the last iron dome on the southern end of the dunes. From here, a sandy portion of trail brings hikers to the intersection with the Red Sands and Hidden Pinyon Overlook trails. Continuing straight (south) leads up a short rise and ends at an overlook featuring views of towering sandstone cliffs. 

Special Features

The iron domes show the mapped and most direct route across the dunes; however, once on the dunes, you are free to explore anywhere on the sandstone surface. Please be mindful of your footing! Avoid stepping on vegetation. 

As you explore, you may find small, round rocks at the peak of the Petrified Dunes and at the overlook point–these are conglomerates of iron and other sediments known as moqui marbles. Seasonal rainfall can fill many of the depressions and potholes along the dunes. Fairy shrimp and tadpoles may be found in these fleeting water features.

Safety and Considerations

This trail features steep slopes, uneven surfaces, and minimal shade. Wear appropriate footwear and bring water. 

Whiterocks

• Trail Access: Whiterocks Trailhead via Whiterocks Rd.
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Equestrian*
• Distance (round trip): 4 miles/ km
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking Time: 2 hours
• Printable Guide: Whiterocks
• Trail Description

From the Whiterocks trailhead along hwy 18, the hike crosses an open lava field and dry creekbed before meeting a T-intersection. From here, hikers can choose to take a short spur trail into the rocky cliffs ending at a natural amphitheater. Back at the T-intersection, a left turn will take hikers through sparse thickets of scrub oak before arriving at an expansive overlook of the main canyon. The trail turns down a steep slickrock slope and traverses the lava flow down to the next intersection with Gila Trail entering from the left. Continue in a SW direction along a route of mixed sand and basalt lava. Hikers will come to a red and white slickrock overlook of West Canyon Road. This trail ends shortly after at the intersection with Lava Flow Trail. 

Special Features

The Whiterocks amphitheater features expansive views and offers opportunities for rock scrambling. Due to the change in elevation, this region of the park features different plants and wildflowers than lower regions. 

Safety and Considerations

This trail features uneven rock surfaces and long stretches of sand with little to no shade. Wear suitable footwear 

Cinder Cone

• Trail Access: Cinder Cone Trailhead, Diamond Valley Dr.
• Allowable Uses: Hike
• Distance (round trip): 1.5 miles/2.4km
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Hiking Time: 2 hours
• Printable Guide: Cinder Cone

Trail Description

From the Cinder Cone Trailhead, follow the trail southwest as it travels parallel to the highway. Nearing the base of the cinder cone, follow the trail to the left as it curves towards the eastern side of the cinder cone. Afterwards, the trail begins winding slowly upwards in a southward direction. The trail flattens for a short time after coming around the back of the cinder cone on its southern edge, then begins a series of switchbacks to the top of the cinder cone. Periodic switchbacks continue upwards, providing views of the main canyon to the west, Diamond Valley to the east, and the mountains of Pine Valley to the distant northeast. There is a straight and steep incline just before reaching the top of the cinder cone. Once at the top, the trail forks both right and left as it circles the rim of the cinder cone. 

Special Features

This trail showcases an extinct volcano. Classified as a cinder cone, this volcano is partially responsible for the formation of Snow Canyon and the black lava flows seen throughout the park. Hike to the top to see what is left of this volcanic remnant. 

Safety and Considerations

This hike contains steep slopes, ledges, minimal shade, and sharp lava rock. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring water. Avoid short-cutting up and down the steep sides of the volcano to reduce erosion and protect access to this remarkable feature. 

Red Sands

• Trail Access: Red Sands Trailhead
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Equestrian*
• Distance (round trip): 3.5 miles/5.6km
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Hiking Time: 2 hours
• Printable Guide: Red Sands

Trail Description

From the trailhead, hike straight across the paved trail and continue towards the sandstone cliffs. The trail winds through a small canyon bottom where the Hidden Pinyon trail merges from a rock passageway on the right. Continue straight, climbing a hill of lava rock and emerge at a four-way intersection. Follow signage for Red Sands leading straight ahead through an open sand sage flat. From here, the trail follows along sandstone ledges and crosses dry wash bottoms until reaching another four-way intersection with the lower Petrified Dunes trail. Continue west down a steep slope, crossing the dry creek-bed and meeting up with West Canyon Road. From here, the trail crosses the road and follows the sandy wash bottom surrounded by towering cliffs. The end of the trail is noted by a sign, or in wet periods, several small pools. 

Special Features

This hike leads to an area nicknamed the “Three Ponds” where water from rainstorms collects and forms three small pools of water. In the short window of time before the pools dry up, the waters spring to life with several aquatic desert pothole species such as tadpoles, insect larvae and three different species of shrimp. 

Safety and Considerations

The portion of this trail beyond West Canyon Road features deep sand that greatly enhances difficulty in hot weather. 

Scout Cave

• Trail Access: Scout Cave Trailhead
• Allowable Uses: Hike, Bike, Equestrian
• Distance (round trip): 6 miles/9.7km
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Hiking Time: 3.5 hours
• Printable Guide: Scout Cave

Trail Description

From the parking lot, cross the street to reach the Scout Cave trailhead. Nearly half a mile into the trail, keep right at the intersection to head south and follow the trail as it descends into the wash below. Reaching the bottom, follow the trail to cross the wash, staying on its left side until you reach a small sand bench. Cross this sand bench and make a sharp left to head east. After navigating around dry falls, the trail leads up steep wooden steps. Once at the top, you will see the teardrop shaped entrance to Scout Cave on your left. Near the cave, the trail splits into two paths–keep right to follow a short and steep scramble to the cave; keep left to follow a longer but more level route. Beyond the cave, the trail hugs the cliff face, then climbs to the top of the mesa and intersects with the Gila Trail. 

Special Features

About half way through this trail is a small cave that provides views of the canyon, and the cities of Ivins and St. George. This trail also shows various rock formations from different eras of Snow Canyon, such as Kayenta sandstone and lava/basalt flows, as well as an intermittently flowing creek bed known as a wash that contains willows and other water loving plants. 

Safety and Considerations

This trail features steep slopes, uneven terrain and minimal shade. Wear suitable footwear and bring water. 

All Trail Guides:

• Hidden Pinyon Trail Guide
• Johnson Canyon
• Jenny’s Canyon
• Pioneer Names
• Hidden Pinyon
• Butterfly
• Lava Flow
• Whiterocks
• West Canyon
• Red Sands
• Berm
• Cinder Cone
• Petrified Dunes
• Sand Dunes
• Scout Cave
• Toe Trail
• Tortoise Walk
• Whiptail

Desert Tortoise Information

• Share the Road Save the Tortoise
• Snow Canyon State Park Tortoise Walk Nature Trail Guide – Braille Ready File .BRF
• Snow Canyon State Park Tortoise Walk Nature Trail – Large Print Guide