Whiptail TrailHiking Difficulty
Moderate
Biking Difficulty
Easy
Length
3.08 mi
Trail Traffic
Light
Route Type
Connector
Highlights
Accessibility
Suitability
Recommended Use
Hiking
Directions
The Whiptail trail is located in Snow Canyon, so there is a small fee to explore the State Park.
Depending on the direction you go this trail is easier or harder. The uphill sections will be easier to ride with less elevation gain starting at Upper Galoot or Johnson Canyon Trailhead but the views to your back, and the downhill section can be fast through some of the best views of the canyon. It can be used either direction but the official start begins just outside the south entrance of Snow Canyon State Park. From St. George, head north on Bluff Street and take exit to Red Hills Pkwy/Snow Canyon Pkwy. Turn left onto Snow Canyon Pkwy and travel 3.2 miles until you come to a roundabout. Proceed straight through the circle and continue 0.7 miles. At the next roundabout take the first exit onto Snow Canyon Dr. From the parking area outside the park, locate the crosswalk on the east side of the lot and follow it across the street to the start of the Whiptail Trail. Turn left (north) and begin walking or riding toward the Snow Canyon State Park entrance. You will need to stop at the entrance station and pay an entrance fee. Continue north to another crosswalk and keep following the trail as it runs along the west side of the park road. Soon the trail splits at a junction with the West Canyon Trail. Bear right here, staying on the Whiptail Trail as it meanders through this pristine desert environment.
Description
The Whiptail Trail is a scenic wide paved path that runs parallel to Snow Canyon Drive. It is good for all skill levels and is a popular route for hikers, bikers, and joggers. This trail is wheelchair accessible and great for all ages. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on a leash. Whiptail Trail is very popular for people with dogs or strollers, thanks to its smoothly paved asphalt and many access points. The park is known for its sandy trails, so this is a nice option for people wanting solid ground under their feet. It is a great introductory hike to Snow Canyon and offers access to several other trails for those looking to explore further.
Whiptail Trail stretches 3.08 miles from the Upper Galoot to the trailhead on South Tuacahn Parkway. The trail gains just under 500 feet in elevation as it climbs from Ivins, up past the park office and campground, and finally comes to an end at the picnic tables of the Upper Galoot or vice versa. You can enjoy the beautiful view of Snow Canyon State Park featuring stunning red and white Navajo sandstone, beautiful wild flowers, lava rock, and more.
Pictures
