Overview

Snowshoes are simply fantastic. They allow anyone to tackle deep snow, just as if they were walking. So when Zion gets pounded by a huge snowstorm and everyone is hunkered down by the fire, strap on a pair of shoes, bundle up against the cold, and head out to experience the red canyons in a winter landscape.

Where to go Snowshoeing

Zion National Park

Snowshoeing may not be the first activity to come to mind when visiting Zion, but the park has some fantastic snowshoeing opportunities when the weather is right. Large storms regularly pass through, dumping snow over the entire area. 

If you're lucky enough to be in the park right after a large snowfall, almost all the trails will be deserted and ready for snowshoes. One of the preferred treks is heading up to Angel's Landing, which will likely be empty because other visitors won't venture up the snow covered trail.

Even if a snowstorm didn't recently pass through, Kolob Canyons hold snow very well due to their higher elevation. In addition, Wildcat Canyon and Lava Point are great options for experienced snowshoers. Always make sure to check with the Visitor Center to get current information about avalanche dangers.

Dixie National Forest

As the largest National Forest in Utah, there's an incredible variety of trails available to snowshoers.  Stretching 170 miles wide, there's plenty of room for everyone, so even multiple-use trails can be enjoyable to a non-motorized visitor.

With its wide selection of choices, make sure to try out the Markagunt Plateau, particularly the Virgin River Rim Trail, 32 miles long and broken into three segments.  Strawberry Ridge is a highlight along the trail, so be sure to stop off for a photo.

It's not surprising that the area near Brian Head Ski Resort would also hold great snowshoeing trails. Venture out from the base area or take one of the lifts up. Either way provides fantastic snow in the nearby mountains. Burt's Road is a popular 9-mile route, clearly marked and conveniently located close to the mountain base.

Ashdown Gorge Wilderness Area

While Ashdown Gorge is one of the smaller parks in the area, it presents a unique chance to explore, particularly in winter.  Generally, the high elevation keeps snow from October to March, making for a great snowshoeing landscape.

While there are only a few trails, the low number of visitors means you'll see more marmots and deer than people. Try out the Rattlesnake Trail, winding 10 miles through the park to Cedar Breaks. Twisted Forest Trail, a 12-mile out-and-back, leads through the mysterious and ancient bristlecone pines, some of the oldest organisms on the planet.

Pine Valley Mountains Wilderness Area

Hiking up to 10,365 ft., Signal Peak is a beautiful challenge in summer, but winter presents a unique chance to get away for a snowshoe trek through the Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness Area.

Try out the 18 miles of Summit Trail, starting from Pine Valley and following the ridge line all the way to Signal Peak. The Whipple Trail is another option, starting from the east flank and rising to the summit in just 6 miles for a breathless view over the entire valley.

Guided Tours and Rentals

Snowshoeing can be intimidating for newcomers, while the more experienced may simply prefer to rent, so take a look below and discover the guiding company to help arrange your snowshoe adventure.