Pioneer Names

The Pioneer Names Trail features two parking areas connected by a roadside path, allowing visitors to hike the trail as either a short out-and-back or an easy loop. From the northern trailhead, the route travels toward three large sandstone alcoves tucked beneath the towering canyon walls. A short scramble into the smallest alcove reveals several names and dates left by early settlers traveling through the canyon, many written in axle grease more than 140 years ago. Continuing south, the trail follows the base of the cliffs through one of the shadiest sections of Snow Canyon State Park, where hackberry trees provide welcome relief from the desert sun and seasonal waterfalls occasionally cascade down the sandstone after periods of rain. Beneath the cliffs, vivid green resurrection moss creates a striking contrast against the deep red rock.

Near the southern end of the trail, hikers can explore a small natural arch before returning to the parking area or completing the loop via the roadside connector. Although the hike is short, it offers an exceptional combination of natural beauty and cultural history that appeals to visitors of all ages. The Pioneer Names Trail is also a popular access point for rock climbers, with several established climbing routes located on the surrounding sandstone cliffs. Visitors are asked to help preserve this historic site by staying on designated trails and never touching, tracing, or adding to the pioneer inscriptions that have survived for generations.

You can see the Pioneer Names trail & landmark on our illustrated Snow Canyon map