Gila Trail – Snow Canyon State Park

Though Gila Trail is 15.8 miles round trip, it is well marked making it easy to follow.  The trail is usually accessed at the north end of Snow Canyon State Park from the parking lot located before the fee area and heads south to the Beck Hill/Paradise Rim trail junction.  From there, the path follows the rim of the plateau to the scenic overlook parking area.  This stretch offers an amazing view of the state park.  The path continues to follow the dirt road to Highway 18 and heads south along the highway until a sign indicates entering a dirt path.  Throughout the rest of the hike, the trail enters a series of different terrains as it climbs over rocks, treks through sand, and follows riverbeds.  There is a few stretches of rock scrambling where hikers must descend and climb.  These sections are not too difficult but hikers should still proceed with caution as there are drops.  Almost every hundred to few hundred feet there is a sign.  This helps as the path is not always clear.  A sign can almost always be seen so if confused, try to locate a marker in the distance.  The path even follows behind some residential houses.  Please stay on the trail.  Petroglyphs are found just off the trail about 5 miles.  There are signs that lead to this rock art but the petroglyphs are officially a part of the Snow Canyon Petroglyph Trail.  From here the trail winds into the Paradise Canyon area.  This part is difficult to follow as there is no clear path but ultimately the path follows a river, or riverbed, until reaching a gap between rocks.  There are signs directing the trail towards the Beck Hill/Paradise Rim junction.  The path gets sandy at this point but it is still clear as is merges with these trails.

Overall, Gila Trail features incredible views of Snow Canyon and the surrounding area.  Most hikers tend to just walk the stretch between the north parking lot and the Snow Canyon overlook.  Because of the numerous signs, the trail is easy to follow but there are strenuous parts.  Hikers enjoy unique rock formations, red rock scenery, and options for petroglyphs.  Gila monsters are known to be in this area so keep your eye out for this unique experience!