Dreaming of Zion National Park? Discover This Utah Hidden Gem Instead

Looking for an alternative to Zion National Park? This hidden gem of a state park, Snow Canyon State Park, sits on the edge of the Mojave Desert, the Great Basin, and the Colorado Plateau. Contrary to its name, there’s no snow in sight — just stunning rock formations and the petrified remnants of once sandy dunes. 

It’s located 10 miles outside the town of St. George, which can be a great base camp for exploring the park. Snow Canyon was named after Mormon pioneer Erastus Snow, and it very rarely receives any snowfall. Inside the park, the Navajo sandstone cliffs share the same history and geology as Zion’s geological formations. These formations were shaped by wind, water, lava flows, and the passage of time. 

Visiting the park, paying the entrance fee, and potentially spending the night

Make sure to buy a day-use pass or an “Annual Utah State Park Pass” before visiting, which is required for entry. These can be purchased either in person or online. Entry costs $15.00 per vehicle and $5.00 for pedestrians or cyclists. 

Those who want to extend their trip and stay longer can book a spot at the campground inside the park. The campground offers 14 RV sites with water and electrical hookups, along with 17 multi-use campsites. It’s strongly recommended that visitors reserve a spot in advance.

Things to do in Snow Canyon State Park

Road cycling and mountain biking are both very popular pastimes in this park. There’s an 18-mile paved scenic loop for road bikes to follow (just beware you’ll be sharing the path with walkers and joggers, and even rollerbladers, as well). Mountain bikers can explore a range of pathways, including popular choices such as Whiptail Trail, Rusty Cliffs, Mustang Pass, or West Canyon Road.

Exploring the park’s lava tubes and caves is bound to be an unforgettable adventure. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see and become immersed in remnants of this region’s ancient volcanic activity, up close. Remember to bring headlamps or flashlights to illuminate the dark and potentially treacherous spaces, always being cautious, as reaching some of the landmarks may require some rock scrambling.

Hiking here can be a solid pastime for any outdoor enthusiast who wants to ogle the gorgeous and diverse landscapes of this park. There are multiple trails to traverse. Some of the most popular, easier paths to explore include Jenny’s Canyon Trail and Whiptail Trail. Those seeking something a bit more challenging can conquer the steep climb up the Cinder Cone Trail or the Gila Trail. 

I hiked a portion of the Petrified Dunes Trail, which was beautiful and not too challenging. The texture and color of the red rocks were out of this world. I felt like I was on an alien planet.

Visitors who prefer to explore by horseback can ride on the designated equestrian trails, which include Whiptail and West Canyon Trails, and wind through the beautiful red rock canyons. There’s also rock climbing routes — including several bolted routes made for all skill levels, like The Circus and Aftershock. Spy a range of wildlife like coyotes, kit foxes, road runners, and quail, or the more elusive desert tortoises, or Gila Monsters, which are more challenging to spot. 

Snow Canyon State Park is a beautiful alternative to Zion National Park

Fewer crowds, a lower entrance fee, and just as stunning scenery make Zion National Park a superb spot to check out in the St. George region of Utah. From hiking to biking, rock climbing, lava flow adventures, and wildlife spotting, there’s no shortage of activities to embark upon inside the park. Those wanting to stay longer can book a spot at the campground on-site and later depart with unforgettable memories of rolling red rocks and dreamy desert landscapes.  

While you're in the region, set your home base in St. George, which can be a great city to explore outside of your time in the park. And if you're looking for another lesser-known state park in Utah to explore, skip Moab and visit Dead Horse State Park instead. Utah may be best known for its "Mighty Five" stunning national parks, but its smaller and more regional state park system is also filled with countless hidden gems to encounter.