Snow Canyon State Park is a real gem in Utah’s state park system. Located just minutes from St. George, the park has the most incredible landscape, with soaring red sandstone cliffs, interesting lava flows, and overlooks with endless views. With 38 miles of trails, you can spend a week exploring this 7,400-acre park, and you’ll definitely want to hike the Lava Flow Trail during your visit.
While the tourists flock to the Big 5 National Park, Snow Canyon State Park is a locals’ secret. The park has many of the same features as nearby Zion National Park but with way fewer crowds.
Vbar S/Tripadvisor
One of the best ways to explore the park’s gorgeous landscape is by hiking its trails, and the Lava Flow Trail is one of our favorites.
Gerard Bonfils/Alltrails
Short and sweet, this trail is just 2.5 miles long and is suitable for most members of the family. You’ll find signs along the way that tell you all about the lava flow and its history.
Mandee Brown/Alltrails
The trail takes you right along a lava flow that was created thousands of years ago. You’ll walk right past (and on top of) lava rocks on your journey. Small children and those with balance issues might need some assistance on part of this trail. Before you set out, make sure you have decent hiking shoes and plenty of water.
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
You’ll clearly see where the lava flow seeped as it made its way across the landscape…
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
…and you’ll get up close and personal with the lava rocks left behind. Cinder cones that erupted thousands of years ago left these treasures strewn across the desert, and they’re fascinating to explore.
Brandon Cowdell/Alltrails
Speaking of exploring, you might want to bring a flashlight to explore the lava tubes. These little caves were created when lava hardened over the top of still-molten lava.
Ruth W/Alltrails
Take the short spur off the trail to reach the overlook, and be rewarded with stunning views. You’ll want to make sure to have your camera for this one.
Sarah Flores/Alltrails
The Lava Flow Trail meets a junction with the Butterfly and Whiterock trails, so you can always extend your adventure before returning to the parking lot.
Sarah Flores/Alltrails
Snow Canyon State Park is just 11 miles north of St. George.
Google Click here for the interactive Google map.
Learn more about Snow Canyon State Park and check out the full trail map here.
Vbar S/Tripadvisor
Gerard Bonfils/Alltrails
Mandee Brown/Alltrails
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
Brandon Cowdell/Alltrails
Ruth W/Alltrails
Sarah Flores/Alltrails
Click here for the interactive Google map.
While you’re enjoying southern Utah, you might want to explore this cave that was created by lava flow more than a thousand years ago.
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