Sand Dunes Snow Canyon
Explore ancient sand dunes turned to solid rock, a unique geological wonder in Snow Canyon State Park. Perfect for hiking and photography.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light on dunes
Sand Dunes Snow Canyon
Best Time
Magical light on dunes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient sand dunes turned to solid rock, a unique geological wonder in Snow Canyon State Park. Perfect for hiking and photography.
"It's crazy to think that sand dunes were petrified. You will have fun, hiking, walking, climbing, and exploring!"
🚗 Park Entry Fees
Pay per vehicle: $10 for Utah residents, $15 for non-residents. Valid for the whole day!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for climbing and exploring the uneven, rocky terrain of the petrified dunes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petrified Sand Dunes
South side of Snow Canyon State Park
Walk, climb, and explore ancient sand dunes turned to solid rock. A truly unique geological wonder.
Sunrise/Sunset Views
Petrified Sand Dunes overlook
Witness the magical glow of sunrise or sunset illuminating the unique formations and surrounding red rocks.
Geological Wonders
Snow Canyon State Park
Discover petrified sand dunes, lava tubes, and an extinct volcano, showcasing the park's volcanic past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Petrified Sand Dunes
Park Entry & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Entry Fees
Pay per vehicle: $10 for Utah residents, $15 for non-residents. Valid for the whole day!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for climbing and exploring the uneven, rocky terrain of the petrified dunes.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon. Midday sun can be intense in the desert.
💧 Visit After Rain
See unique puddles and potential waterfalls. The rocks look amazing when wet!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Entry Fees
Pay per vehicle: $10 for Utah residents, $15 for non-residents. Valid for the whole day!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for climbing and exploring the uneven, rocky terrain of the petrified dunes.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon. Midday sun can be intense in the desert.
💧 Visit After Rain
See unique puddles and potential waterfalls. The rocks look amazing when wet!
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted in the Petrified Sand Dunes area.
🔦 Bring Headlamps
If exploring nearby lava tubes, a headlamp is crucial for visibility.
🧸 Pack Sand Toys
Bring beach chairs and sand toys for extra fun, especially for kids!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors overwhelmingly praise the Petrified Sand Dunes for their unique geological formations and the fun of exploring them. The opportunity to witness ancient sand dunes turned to solid rock is a highlight, with many recommending it as a must-do in Snow Canyon State Park. Some note that while the park's scenery is phenomenal, the campground sites can be very close together.
"This is a must do hike in Snow Canyon. It’s crazy to think that sand dunes were petrified. You will have fun, hiking, walking, climbing, and exploring all around and up and down these dunes. I saw people of all ages. You will not be disappointed. I highly recommend."
Carlos Francisco Rivera
"This place is well worth the stop!
Petrified Sand dunes / like solid rock
Very cool hikes and not way off to see amazing views!"
Craig Winters
"This is a tough one to rate. The park itself, the scenery, hiking and biking are phenomenal. They deserve 5*+. But camping at the sites with water and electric facilities is absolutely horrible. There might be 5 feet between you and your neighbor. You're looking right into your neighbors trailer, as they are looking into yours. The spaces are very narrow and difficult to navigate. If you want any privacy at all do not reserve sites 1-14. Only small trailers (max 25' ) should consider those sites. The dry camp sites are well dispersed and preferable. There are two showers for men and two for women and they are kept clean. Biking is amazing ... just be aware of the many newbies on rental electric bikes, ride on the right, pass on the left. Be sure to go to Petrified Sand Dunes. Fantastic views ."
Carol Fifer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sand Dunes are located on the south side of Snow Canyon State Park. It's typically the first pull-off on your left as you head north into the park.
Snow Canyon State Park is conveniently located in Ivins, just about 15 minutes away from St. George, Utah.
From St. George, take UT-18 N towards Veyo. Turn left onto Snow Canyon Road (UT-305) and follow signs for Snow Canyon State Park. The Petrified Sand Dunes are an early stop within the park.
Yes, there are designated parking areas near the Petrified Sand Dunes. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
While biking is popular in Snow Canyon State Park, the Petrified Sand Dunes area is best explored on foot. You can bike to the general vicinity and then walk to the dunes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle for Utah residents and $15 for non-residents. This pass is valid for the entire day and covers the whole park. 
No advance booking is typically required for general park entry. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Snow Canyon State Park website for any alerts or special event closures.
Snow Canyon State Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check the park's official website before your visit.
Yes, the Petrified Sand Dunes are accessible year-round, but weather conditions can affect accessibility, especially during winter months.
Utah residents receive a discounted rate of $10 per vehicle. There are no other widely advertised discounts for general entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can hike, walk, climb, and explore the unique petrified sand dunes. It's a fantastic spot for photography and experiencing geological wonders.
The Petrified Sand Dunes area is generally considered family-friendly and easy to navigate, with opportunities for scrambling and exploring. The loop is about 1.2 miles round trip.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven, rocky terrain. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to desert temperatures.
No, dogs are not allowed in the Petrified Sand Dunes area of Snow Canyon State Park.
Restroom facilities are available within Snow Canyon State Park, though they may not be directly at the Sand Dunes pull-off. Plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the petrified sand dunes and the surrounding red rock formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the rock formations. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
The entire area offers unique photographic opportunities. Look for interesting patterns in the petrified rock, the contrast with the sky, and the geometric lines of the formations.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Utah State Parks. Always check the official park regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
The unique texture and patterns of the petrified sand, the vibrant red hues of the rock, and the dramatic desert light create stunning photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The area is generally easy to navigate, making it suitable for even the youngest hikers. Consider visiting Jenny's Canyon nearby for a very short, kid-friendly hike to a small waterfall. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of the desert sun. While dogs aren't allowed at the dunes, the park offers other areas where they might be permitted on a leash. Check park regulations for details.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The geometric patterns and horizontal lines of the petrified rock, contrasted with the distant red rock cliffs, create dramatic compositions. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive desert landscape and a tripod for those golden hour shots. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the lava tubes and other geological features within the park for a comprehensive portfolio of Snow Canyon's natural beauty.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Explorers
For more extensive exploration, consider combining your visit with other trails in Snow Canyon, such as Padre Canyon Trail or Hidden Pinyon Trail, to create a longer loop and discover more of the park's diverse scenery. Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky. Carry ample water, especially during warmer months, and be prepared for potential sun exposure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Petrified Sand Dunes
Visitors can marvel at the distinct textures and shapes, which appear almost sculpted by nature. The area offers a unique opportunity to walk on what was once a vast desert landscape. The contrast between the solid, rocky dunes and the softer, more eroded sandstone cliffs of the canyon creates a visually striking environment. It's a place where you can truly touch the ancient past and appreciate the slow, powerful forces that shaped the Earth.
For those interested in a deeper understanding, exploring the nearby lava tubes and the extinct volcano that contributed to the park's formation provides further context. These features highlight the volcanic activity that occurred in the region, adding another layer to the park's geological narrative.
Experiencing the Sand Dunes: Tips from Visitors
To enhance your visit, consider the timing. Many recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular light, which accentuates the dunes' textures and colors.
+1 Some visitors also suggest that visiting after it rains can be particularly rewarding, as it can create puddles and even small waterfalls, making the rocks appear even more vibrant. Practical advice includes wearing sturdy footwear for navigating the rocky terrain and bringing sand toys and chairs, especially if you're visiting with children, to make the most of your time playing in this unique environment.
Remember that dogs are not permitted in this specific area, so plan accordingly. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit