Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

The Coral Pink Sand Dunes have developed over millennia due to the erosion of Navajo Sandstone. The sand’s distinctive pink hue comes from iron oxide in the sandstone. This park is a favorite among off-road vehicle fans and hikers, offering endless exploration and recreation opportunities.

How to Get There

Located about 20 miles from Kanab, Utah, and 41 miles from Springdale (near Zion National Park), Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is easily accessible. Just take Highway 89 and follow the signs west to the park’s fee station. It’s a short drive from there to the park.

Attractions

1. Sandboarding and Sledding: A top activity here is sandboarding and sledding. You can rent sandboards or sleds at the visitor center for $25 each, which includes a wax stick to keep them sliding smoothly.
2. Off-Road Vehicle Riding: The park has extensive ATV trails and riding areas, perfect for off-roading enthusiasts. You can rent OHVs or bring your own, but remember to follow safety rules like staying 100 feet from pedestrians and 10 feet from vegetation.
3. Hiking: Hiking is a fantastic way to explore the park. You can walk to the observation deck or venture onto the dunes. The deep sand can be tiring, but it’s fascinating to see the dunes up close.
4. Photography: This park is a photographer’s dream, with breathtaking views of the dunes and surrounding landscape.
5. Camping: There are two campgrounds: one with dry camping sites (1-22) and another with water and electric hook-ups (23-34). Campsites range from $28 to $45 per night, depending on amenities.
6. Rappelling Tours: For thrill-seekers, All Ways Adventure offers rappelling tours that include hanging over a cliff edge with sweeping views of the sand dunes.
7. Wildlife Watching and Horseback Riding: The park is also great for wildlife watching and horseback riding, though these activities aren’t as prominent as others.

Ticket Information

– Day Use Fees: $15 per vehicle, with discounts for Utah seniors 65 and older at $10 per vehicle. – Camping Fees: Rates vary depending on the campground and amenities, ranging from $20 to $45 per night.

Tips for Visiting

1. Best Time to Visit: Spring, early summer, and fall are the best times to visit, as summer temperatures can be dangerously high.
2. Pack Essentials: Bring extra clothes and shoes, as you’ll get sandy. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat, as there’s no shade in the park.
3. Rent Sandboards: While rentals are available, it might be more economical to share one board among your group.
4. Check Local Weather: Keep an eye on local weather reports, as the park is at 6,000 feet above sea level and can be quite windy.
5. Explore Beyond Dunes: Check out South Fork Indian Canyon and Hell Dive Canyon for more scenic views and ancient pictographs.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience Utah’s unique natural beauty. Whether you’re an adventure lover or just looking to unwind in nature, this park has something for everyone.

Photo by Joshua Sukoff on Unsplash