Petrified Dunes: Snow Canyon's Slickrock Playground
Rolling white-and-red slickrock in Snow Canyon that was once towering sand dunes — an easy, no-set-path hike that's a natural playground near St. George.
Petrified Dunes: Snow Canyon's Slickrock Playground
The Petrified Dunes are one of Snow Canyon State Park's most beloved spots — rolling white-and-red slickrock that was once towering sand dunes, frozen into stone. It's a natural playground just outside St. George in Ivins.
The hike
- Distance: ~2 miles round trip with only ~125 feet of gain from the Petrified Dunes trailhead
- The draw: once you reach the dunes there's no set path — you wander, scramble, and explore the wavy slickrock
- Great for kids, photographers, and anyone who just wants to roam
Tips
- Go for sunrise or sunset — the low light turns the sandstone gold and pink
- Wear grippy shoes; the rock is climbable but can be slick on steep faces
- There's no shade — bring water and sun protection
- Keep track of your route back; the open slickrock looks similar in every direction
One of the easiest, most fun ways to experience Snow Canyon.