What Is Happening at Snow Canyon in November? Quick Answer
Three things to plan around at Snow Canyon State Park, according to Utah State Parks:
- Follow the Flag, Nov. 8–14, 2026. The giant flag returns for Veterans Day week. Nov. 7 and 15 are setup and takedown days, and the flag may be harder to see then.
- Snow Canyon Drive closes Saturday, Nov. 14, from 7 a.m. to noon for the Snow Canyon Half Marathon and 10K, held in partnership with St. George City. The paved Whiptail Trail is closed too.
- Free ranger programs on Nov. 20, 21 and 28.
The park is open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The visitor center number is 435-628-2255.
Follow the Flag: When and How to See It
The park says Follow the Flag "will be returning to Snow Canyon for Veterans Day week," November 8–14, 2026. The organizer's own site lists the St. George flight as Nov. 7–14 and ties it to America's 250th anniversary. Its founders describe flying a huge flag across a 600-foot canyon wall.
The park asks visitors to stay on designated, mapped trails at all times and to park only in designated lots. It also warns that holiday-season visits are higher than normal and parking in the canyon is limited, so if a trailhead lot is full, come back later rather than parking on vegetation. See our Follow the Flag event listing, and for the rest of the week's ceremonies, our Veterans Day 2026 guide.
Nov. 14 Road Closure for the Half Marathon
On Saturday, November 14, Snow Canyon Drive through the park is closed from 7 a.m. to noon for the Snow Canyon Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and Fun Run. The paved Whiptail Trail is also closed. If you want to hike or see the flag that day, plan on the afternoon. Runners should check the race's own bus and packet details in our event listing.
Free Ranger Programs This Month
| Date | Time | Program |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, Nov. 20 | Noon–1 p.m. | Lunch and Learn |
| Saturday, Nov. 21 | 9–11 a.m. | Nature’s Bounty |
| Saturday, Nov. 28 | 9–10 a.m. | Stretch and Sketch |
| Friday, Dec. 18 | Noon–1 p.m. | Lunch and Learn |
Times are from the park's events list. Check the Utah State Parks events calendar for meeting places and any changes.
What the Park Says About Late-Fall Visits
Snow Canyon's winter advisory notes afternoon highs in the mid-50s but quick temperature drops after sunset in the dry desert air. The park recommends:
- Wear and pack layers, preferably wool or synthetic, and avoid cotton.
- Everyone should carry their own water. You can still dehydrate in winter.
- Use sun protection, and check sunset times so you are not caught in the dark.
- Cell coverage is limited. Tell someone your plans and call for help early if lost.
Snow Canyon is a 7,400-acre park inside the 62,000-acre Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, with more than 38 miles of hiking trails, according to State Parks. For more trails, see our best hikes near St. George guide. If you want waterfalls this month, the Gunlock Falls are flowing. Note that the Sand Cove Trailhead near Leeds is cut off by a washed-out road. Our Ivins city guide covers food and lodging near the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Follow the Flag at Snow Canyon in 2026?
Utah State Parks lists Nov. 8–14, 2026, with Nov. 7 and 15 used for setup and takedown when the flag may be harder to see. The organizer lists Nov. 7–14.
Is Snow Canyon Drive closed on Nov. 14?
Yes. Snow Canyon Drive through the park is closed from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, for the Snow Canyon Half Marathon and 10K. The paved Whiptail Trail is also closed.
What are Snow Canyon State Park hours?
6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The visitor center phone is 435-628-2255.
Where should I park to see the flag?
The park says to park only in designated lots and stalls, not in vegetated areas, and to come back later if a trailhead lot is full. Stay on mapped trails.
Sources: Utah State Parks, Snow Canyon State Park (alerts, events and advisories); Follow the Flag, Giant Flag Flight St. George, Nov. 7–14, 2026.
