Hidden Pinyon

Hidden Pinyon is the hike we have done the most in Saint George, tied with Tempi’po’op. If you have visited us here, it is likely we have taken you on this gem of a trail. Located in Snow Canyon State Park, this hike is one my most favorite in all of southwest Utah. 

The trailhead will start you on the Whiptail trail, walk up this paved trail a short distance and you will see the Hidden Pinyon trail to the left. This trail has interpretive markers, with a brochure at the start of the trail to tell you what each marker is all about so that you can learn more about the flora of the park.

The trail meanders through some cool sandstone formations with a short down climb with Moqui steps built into the rock. It’s a very short section and one you can sit down and attempt a very small slide off of. Our kids love climbing around in this initial section. 

A short distance after that the world opens up and you are greeted with the majesty of Snow Canyon State Park’s huge orange, pink, and white cliff faces. There are cactuses, yuccas, pinyons, and more all along the trail as you continue on your way.

Once you reach the Red Sands trail split, continue on to the spur that climbs upward to the most wonderful overlook in the whole park. You can scramble up onto large boulders that are so black, I picture someone having taken a blow torch to them. 360 degree views of the whole park can be enjoyed from this overlook. The effort put forth is minimal compared to the view you receive from this Hidden Pinyon overlook point.

If you only have time for one hike in Saint George, I would say this is the one to treat yourself to!

Difficulty: Mild.

Trail Stats: 1 mile, 147 feet elevation gain, multiple loop trail. Mileage can vary, I would recommend taking the Red Sands trail onward to the Hidden Pinyon overlook.

Trail Finding: Not difficult.

Conditions: This is a mixed bag when it comes to conditions. Some loose sand, sharp lava rock, sandstone, and packed dirt/sand.

Would I Repeat This: Absolutely, positively, for sure!

Parking: Parking lot available.

Timing: Some short areas of shade, otherwise most of this hike is exposed. If you complete this in the summer months, recommend to do so early or late in the day.

Downloaded Map: Recommended since there are several trail forks. 

Fees: This hike is within Snow Canyon State Park. You will need to pay the entrance fee, or show your annual State Parks Pass

Trails: Trails: Petrified Dunes, Lava Flow, White Rocks, Upper and Lower Galoot trails are all winners. You can also do any easy walk to the Desert Tortoise sculpture and learn more about these protected species.

As a reminder from a previous post, keep watch for Mojave Desert Tortoise (please don’t touch), and snakes (do I have to say please don’t touch?!). We have seen both within the park on the trail and on the main road.