Snow Canyon Overlook is a fun, straightforward hike that leads to a beautiful overlook of the Snow Canyon area. The views will be best at sunrise but it’s also great during the day.
Trail Distance: 4.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 500 ft.
Terrain Rating: Easy – Loose rock
Hike Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Dog Friendly: Yes
Recommended Seasons: All
Trailhead: About 20 minutes north of St. George, free parking here
WHY YOU NEED TO HIKE SNOW CANYON OVERLOOK
If you are in Southern Utah, Snow Canyon Overlook should be at the top of your hiking list. The hike is fairly straight forward in that there is very little elevation and the path is easy to follow.
The weather is generally great year round and there is some shade if it gets too hot in the summer.
And finally you are rewarded with a great view at the end!
While you are in Southern Utah, there are other great hikes in St. George to check out.
WHEN SHOULD I HikE
You can hike Snow Canyon Overlook year-round, but it will be more comfortable from Fall to Spring. The weather is St. George can get to above 100 degrees in the summer, but Snow Canyon Overlook is at around 5,000 ft elevation so you are offered some coolness.
There is also some shade on the trail so you won’t be exposed the entire time.
Of course if you hike during the sunrise or sunset to see the great views, summer temperatures likely will not be a problem!
WHAT SHOULD I PACK
Although Snow Canyon Overlook is a short hike, make sure you pack everything you need. This hike is a hike-in and hike-out and there are no stops for water. Make sure you pack all the water and snacks you need for this hike!
Hiking Boots / Shoes
Having the right shoes is super important. Whether you like lighter shoes like I do or a sturdier hiking boot, Hoka One One and Salomon are my go-to products.
Sun Protection
Sun protection is super important out in St George – especially in the summer! Here are some of my favorites
Food!
Level Foods has been my new go-to bar. I found that their bars have been better on my stomach. They are Gluten free, Dairy free, Non-GMO.
Water Storage
I personally prefer using an MSR Drom Bag because I’m fairly lazy to take water bottles out of my bag, but both options are great. Make sure to bring plenty of water on your trip
Gear for your Dog
Finally don’t forget to keep your dog safe. Bring plenty of water for them and put dog boots on for their paws in the summer.
Snow Canyon Overlook Hiking Guide
Trail start:
The hike starts from the parking lot listed here.
The trail is pretty straight forward but sometimes there are some turns so I recommend downloading offline maps. As you can see in the photo, the terrain is a mix of loose rock and bigger rocks. Overall it’s not too bad at all as the incline is pretty light.
Arriving at Snow Canyon Overlook:
A little over 2 miles in, you will know that you’re getting close to the overlook because the rock will turn into sand. Pretty cool huh?
The trail opens up into a beautiful area. To get to the overlook, just keep going straight. And then you’re there!
To head back, just turn back the way you came.
Can I hike at sunrise or sunset?
Definitely! The trail is fairly straight forward, there are no crazy drop offs (until the end), so I would personally feel safe hiking in the dark before sunrise or hiking in the dark after sunset.
If you decide to go in the dark, just remember to be safe!! Wear a headlamp and bring extra safety gear – just in case.
Have you seen Snow Canyon Overlook before? What did you think?
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