Quick Facts:
Location: Dixie National Forest – Washington, Utah
Coordinates: 37.234758493207785, -113.4770477495421
Length: 5 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 700’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
If you love hiking through surreal landscapes, Yant Flats is your kind of adventure. This gem near St. George, Utah, leads to the famous Candy Cliffs, a stunning area of swirling sandstone, dramatic drop-offs, and colorful rock formations that look like they belong in a fantasy world. Add in the striking Yellow Top, and you have one of the most unique hikes in southern Utah. It’s a mix of easy walking and rock scrambling, with endless opportunities for exploration.
Getting to Yant Flats:
Yant Flats is located in Dixie National Forest, about 40 minutes from St. George. To get there, take I-15 to Leeds, then follow Silver Reef Road. The road eventually turns into FR-031, a rough dirt road that climbs into the Pine Valley Mountains. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially after rain, but careful drivers in regular cars can usually make it. The road ends at a small dirt parking lot, where the trail begins.
Parking Information:
The parking area is small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. There are no restrooms, water stations, or facilities, so come prepared. Cell service is spotty, so download maps in advance and let someone know your plans if you’re hiking solo.
Landscape Description:
The trail starts off deceptively easy. For the first mile, you’ll walk through a peaceful pine and juniper forest on a sandy path with little elevation gain. Then, the scenery suddenly transforms. The forest opens up to reveal vast, rolling sandstone formations in shades of orange, pink, and red. Welcome to the Candy Cliffs.
This section of Yant Flats is pure fun. The slickrock spreads out for miles, with deep cracks, small domes, and wave-like ridges. You can follow the worn paths or wander freely, there’s no wrong way to explore. Keep going toward the edge, and you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the desert below, stretching all the way to Arizona.
If you’re up for a little more adventure, continue toward Yellow Top. This distinct sandstone peak rises above the cliffs, offering a dramatic perspective of the entire area. The climb up Yellow Top is short but steep, with some scrambling required. The view from the top is worth every step.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
The hike to Candy Cliffs and back is about 3 miles round trip, with minimal elevation gain. If you add Yellow Top, expect closer to 5 miles with some moderate scrambling. The trail is easy for most of the way, but navigating the slickrock requires good shoes with grip. It’s also completely exposed to the sun, so bring plenty of water.
Dog-Friendly?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on Yant Flats, but they should be leashed. Keep in mind that the sandstone can get extremely hot, so avoid midday hikes, especially in summer. Bring extra water for your pup, as there’s none on the trail.
Park Rules and Regulations:
Stay on durable surfaces to avoid damaging the fragile desert ecosystem. Don’t carve into the rock, nature has already done a better job decorating this place than we ever could. Pack out all trash, and be mindful of the steep cliffs, especially if you’re hiking with kids or dogs.
Other Hikes Nearby:
If Yant Flats leaves you craving more slickrock adventures, check out Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, home to slot canyons and stunning rock formations. For something even wilder, explore Snow Canyon State Park, where you’ll find lava tubes, petrified dunes, and towering sandstone cliffs. If you’re looking for a classic Southern Utah hike, Zion National Park is just an hour away.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
After your hike, head into St. George for a bite to eat or a stroll through historic downtown. Visit Pioneer Park, where you can climb on more red rock formations right in the city. If you love art and history, check out the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site or the Tuacahn Amphitheatre, which hosts outdoor performances against a stunning red rock backdrop.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall are the best times to hike Yant Flats. The weather is mild, and the soft lighting makes the sandstone colors even more vibrant. Summer can be brutally hot, with no shade along the trail, so early mornings or evenings are best. Winter is also a great option, cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable, and occasional snow dusting the cliffs adds an extra layer of beauty.
