Snow Canyon petroglyph hike: Hidden rock art off the main trail

Find three sets of petroglyphs the main trails miss, scrambling across red rock with a guide who knows where to look.

A guided half-day hike through the less-traveled side of Snow Canyon State Park, where you discover hidden petroglyph sites and a mini-slot canyon across 3 or 5 miles of red rock terrain. The route crosses uneven slick rock with light scrambling and elevation gain between 250 and 650 feet depending on which distance you choose. A live guide in English leads groups of at least moderate fitness. Minimum age is 18.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike hidden petroglyph sites

• Traverse less traveled Snow Canyon
• Explore mini-slot canyon
• Discover three petroglyph sets

The experience

This hike runs 2 to 4 hours depending on the route length you pick, and it stays on the wild side of Snow Canyon: the part most visitors never see. Your guide knows the petroglyph sites well enough to bring you close, then step back and let you spot the rock art yourself across three separate locations. The terrain is loose rock, deep sand, and uneven slick rock with frequent step-ups and step-downs. Light scrambling and a mini-slot canyon are part of the route. At 3,500 feet elevation, the hike demands moderate fitness and shoes with good tread.

You choose between the 3-mile and 5-mile route when you book, which sets the elevation gain and the time commitment. The longer route climbs up to 650 feet. The shorter one tops out around 250 feet. Either way, the guide brings you to the best vantage points but leaves the discovery to you: no hand-holding, just hints and the space to explore. Bring ample water in a reusable container. Snacks are your call.

What’s included

• A guided hike led by a live English-speaking guide.
• access to the hidden petroglyph sites and mini-slot canyon on the less-traveled side of Snow Canyon State Park.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (18 to 80 years) · Under 18: can't be included in the booking

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48h

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Onthelooselive Yoga & Hike Adventures

Is this one for you?The 2- to 4-hour time window fits between other activities in a half-day, leaving room for a meal or another stop nearby. Choose the 3-mile route if you want a shorter outing. Pick the 5-mile route if you have the morning or afternoon free and want more elevation and distance.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What are the petroglyphs like on this hike?

The hike passes three separate petroglyph sites across the red rock. Your guide brings you near them and gives hints, but you do the spotting yourself: part of what makes the discovery feel real rather than guided.

How hard is the terrain, and what should I wear?

The route crosses loose rock, deep sand, and uneven slick rock with light scrambling and frequent step-ups and step-downs. Shoes with good tread are essential. The hike is not suitable for travelers with significant knee, hip, gait or balance issues, or those who have challenges with rocky uneven terrain for any other health reason.

Can I choose how long the hike is?

Yes, you pick either the 3-mile route or the 5-mile route when you book. The 3-mile hike has up to 250 feet of elevation gain. The 5-mile route climbs up to 650 feet and takes longer.

What's included in the tour price?

The guided hiking tour itself is included, led by a guide who speaks English. You bring your own water and snacks. The guide does not provide them.