The beauty of Southern Utah’s red rock country is without compare, and the best way to witness it is by getting out on a hiking trail and walking amongst the canyons, cliffs, and rock formations. There’s a short, easy trail just outside of Snow Canyon State Park that’s a perfect adventure for hikers of every skill level. Check out Johnson Canyon Trail:
*Please note that Johnson Canyon is closed from March 15th – Sept 14th to protect wildlife. It’s illegal to enter the canyon during this time.
Your adventure starts at the Johnson Canyon trailhead, located at the south entrance to Snow Canyon State Park. There’s a parking lot and some information available there.
Breck Tuttle/Alltrails
The trail extends east from the parking lot. It’s a total of 1.7 miles out and back, and the trail is rated as “easy,” so it’s appropriate for most hikers. Much of the trail is sun-exposed, so make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Alexandra Rocks/Alltrails
If you’re looking for scenic Southern Utah beauty, you just found it. The red rock cliffs meet bright blue skies here, and the effect is amazing. At the beginning of the hike, you’ll walk along Snow Canyon’s sheer rock walls, eventually turning into Johnson Canyon.
Blake Woodward/Alltrails
The deep gulch is a point of interest, with its lava rocks. Watch for wildlife in this area, where you might see leopard lizards, gopher snakes, desert tortoises, and even gila monsters.
Linda Azen/Alltrails
The narrow canyon provides a bit of shade - a welcome respite from the sun. Willow and cottonwood trees fill the canyon.
William Alexander/Alltrails
Its rock walls and formations provide plenty of visual interest. The Navajo sandstone that formed them hardened from sand dunes into rock, and over millions of years, water cut through this stone to form the canyon.
William Alexander/Alltrails
Keep an eye on the cliffs above you for Johnson Canyon Arch. This huge natural arch spans 200 feet.
Thomas Jundt/flickr
The Johnson Canyon Trail is a quick, easy introduction to Southern Utah’s unique wonders. Make plans to visit soon!
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
Have you hiked the Johnson Canyon Trail? We’d love to read about your adventure in the comments!
Breck Tuttle/Alltrails
Alexandra Rocks/Alltrails
Blake Woodward/Alltrails
Linda Azen/Alltrails
William Alexander/Alltrails
Thomas Jundt/flickr
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
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Address: Johnson Canyon, Utah 84710, USA
