Overview

Hype:

Lava Flow Trail in Snow Canyon State Park is a relatively easy hike, typically under 2 miles depending on route variations, and is known for its dramatic mix of jet-black basalt lava and bright red Navajo sandstone. The trail allows visitors to walk directly across hardened lava flows formed thousands of years ago, with natural features like lava tubes, cracks, and scattered desert plants adding interest.

The hike is accessible for most skill levels, though the lava rock can be uneven and sharp, so sturdy shoes are recommended. It’s especially popular for photography, casual exploring, and short outings, making it a great stop for families or anyone looking for a quick but visually unique experience.

Weather plays a big role in enjoyment, as Snow Canyon sits in a desert climate. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, while summer can be extremely hot and winter is mild but occasionally cool. Early morning or late evening visits are ideal in warmer months.

Trail Condition: Class 2 (Trail may have tree roots or rocks jutting out. Navigation skills may consist of following rock cairns and choosing turns at junctions. Elevation gains may be more substantial.)

Time: 1-2 hours

Length: 1.28 miles from Lava Flow Trailhead to junction with access road. 0.66 miles from Lava Flow Trailhead to south lava tube.

Elevation Gain: 450 ft

Fees: Park Admission

Recommended Ages:

	0-3
	4-11
	12-19
	20-49
	50-69
	70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Getting There

Navigate to 37.221988, -113.642052.

Maps

Closest City or Region: Snow Canyon State Park, Utah

Coordinates: 37.219624, -113.649919

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Brochure

April 9, 2026 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Story

We met Ondy just outside the state park so she could carpool in with us. We hiked the Lava Tube Trail starting at the northern trailhead. 

We went to the north lava tube first. There were two entrances: one required rock climbing down, and the other was a scramble into a hole. The hole was safer but more awkward. At the bottom, you could go in two directions. One led to a big room that didn’t go more than 100 feet. The other direction had several tunnels and was more interesting, though still only a couple hundred feet long.

After exploring, we hiked to the south lava tube. There were a lot of groups there, so we had to wait. We scrambled down into the pit and explored. The tube forks in a Y shape. The right arm had short rooms and a boulder pile. We squeezed through a few tight spots but didn’t find anything extensive. The left fork had a hidden gap leading to another room most people didn’t know about. There were also small pits we climbed into and crawled through briefly. Overall, it was two main rooms.

When we got out of the lava tube, we saw a tortoise, which was apparently very rare. Several people have been coming to Snow Canyon for decades and have never seen one.

Afterward, we climbed a rock mound overlooking the area and took a group picture. On the way down, Tara and the girls went ahead while the rest of us took it slower. They walked up the road to get the van and picked us up at the trailhead. We brought walkie-talkies and had fun talking while hiking. We dropped Ondy off at her car, returned to camp for lunch.

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