Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in southwestern Utah near St. George, Snow Canyon State Park spans over 7,400 acres of stunning desert landscape characterized by its unique geological features. The park's striking red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs intersperse with ancient lava flows and cinder cones, creating a region that offers both scenic beauty and geological interest. Originally established in 1958, the area was once the home of the Ancestral Puebloans and later explored by pioneers like Lorenzo and Erastus Snow, for whom the park is named. Snow Canyon has been used as a backdrop in several films, including 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid'. The park offers more than 38 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging technical routes, and is also a popular spot for rock climbing and cycling. Notable features such as the Petrified Dunes offer a glimpse of the natural processes at play over millions of years. Snow Canyon's desert climate supports a variety of wildlife, including species such as the Gila monster and the desert tortoise. The park's natural beauty, coupled with its accessibility and abundant recreational opportunities, make it a popular destination for visitors year-round.
