Scout Cave is a popular hiking destination located in Snow Canyon State Park in Utah, United States. This cave is a unique geological formation that is surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The hiking trail to Scout Cave is moderately difficult, and hikers should be prepared for steep climbs, rocky terrain, and potentially hot weather conditions. In this hiking guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Scout Cave.

Trailhead and Parking: 

The trailhead for Scout Cave is located at the West Canyon parking lot within Snow Canyon State Park. To get to the parking lot, take the Snow Canyon Parkway and follow the signs to the park entrance. The entrance fee for the park is $10 per vehicle per day, and an annual pass is also available. The parking lot fills up quickly, especially during peak season, so it's best to arrive early to ensure a spot.

Hiking Trail:

The Scout Cave trail is a 3.8-mile out-and-back trail that starts at the West Canyon parking lot and climbs up a steep hillside. The first mile of the trail is relatively flat and easy to hike, but the second half of the trail becomes much steeper and rockier. Hikers will need to scramble over rocks and navigate some narrow ledges to reach the cave. The trail is well-marked with signs, and there are several benches along the way to rest.

Scenery: 

The scenery on the Scout Cave trail is breathtaking, with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. Hikers will see colorful rock formations, desert plants, and wildlife along the way, including lizards, snakes, and birds. The view from the top of Scout Cave is especially impressive, with panoramic vistas of Snow Canyon and the surrounding mountains.

Cave Exploration: 

Once you reach Scout Cave, you can explore the cave and its surroundings. The cave is a natural limestone formation that was created by water erosion. Inside the cave, you'll see stalactites, stalagmites, and other interesting rock formations. The cave is not very deep, and it's possible to explore the entire length of the cave without any special equipment.

Safety Tips: 

Hiking in Snow Canyon can be challenging, especially during the hot summer months when temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and dress in light, breathable clothing. Hikers should also be aware of the potential for flash floods during the rainy season and should avoid hiking in the park during thunderstorms. Finally, hikers should be cautious when exploring Scout Cave and should watch their footing on the steep and rocky trail.

Scout Cave is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Snow Canyon State Park. The hiking trail to the cave offers stunning scenery and a challenging but rewarding hike. With proper preparation and precautions, hikers can safely explore the cave and its surroundings and enjoy the natural beauty of this unique geological formation.