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SNOW CANYON STATE PARK — If you’re looking to get off the trail and explore the treasures of Snow Canyon State Park, the Petrified Dunes hike is the place to go.
The dunes were created by tiny grains of quartzite sand that eventually cemented into stone, and water then shaped it into canyons, according to the park pamphlet. This resulted in layers of tiny rock staircases waiting to be climbed, each leading to unique desert views.
The Petrified Dunes Trailhead is accessible from two parking areas, though the Upper Galoot parking area, which offers restrooms and a picnic area, is right across the road from the trailhead.
The first five minutes of the hike alternate between red sand, lava rocks and sandstone. Then the designated path ends and the towering Navajo sandstone awaits.
Along the way you can find surprises such as bonsai-like trees and shrubs growing out of the rocks. The bright green contrasted against the red rock is southern Utah at its best.
The dunes themselves might look daunting at first — they’re steep and uneven —but they’re easy to climb. Just watch where you’re stepping. The payoff is getting to the top and admiring the best views in the park.
Scattered at the top of, and even embedded in, the sandstone are Moqui marbles, small sandstone balls bonded by iron oxide minerals in a variety of shapes. These rocks are found in Utah and Arizona, with look-alikes known as "Martian blueberries" found on Mars.
There are also trees growing from water pockets on the tops of the sandstone. Especially after a good rainfall, you might come across water in the pockets. But don't expect much shade from these low-lying plants.
It’s a good hike for adults and older children, but the sandstone cliffs and slippery Moqui marbles can be dangerous for little ones.
Directions: Snow Canyon State Park is located 8 miles north of St. George on state Route 18. The Upper Galoot parking lot is about halfway through the park. It costs $6 per vehicle.
Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
For ideas of other outdoor things to do in Snow Canyon State Park and near St. George, visit Utah.com.
