Petrified Dunes
Petrified Dunes
The Petrified Dunes Trail crosses massive Navajo sandstone formations that began as windblown sand dunes millions of years ago. The official mapped route is a moderate 1.2-mile round trip, with steep slopes, uneven slickrock, minimal shade, and broad views across Snow Canyon. Iron route markers guide hikers across the sandstone, while the open rock surface offers room to explore carefully.
Trail Details
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Round Trip Length: 1.2 miles
Trail Photos
More About Petrified Dunes
From the Petrified Dunes/Butterfly parking area, follow the trail west and keep left at the first junction toward the sandstone mounds. Stay on the marked trail until you reach the slickrock. Iron domes with arrows identify the most direct route from the north end of the dunes to the south, passing across the high point before descending toward the Red Sands and Hidden Pinyon Overlook junction.
The rounded sandstone preserves the shape of ancient windblown dunes. Along the route, look for small iron-rich stones known as moqui marbles. After seasonal rain, shallow potholes may briefly hold water and support fairy shrimp or tadpoles. The exposed sandstone has steep pitches, uneven surfaces, and almost no shade, so sturdy footwear, sun protection, and plenty of water are important.
Hikers may continue to a short rise and an overlook framed by Snow Canyon’s towering sandstone cliffs. You can find Petrified Dunes on our Snow Canyon map.
