Red Canyon Spring Season Snow ~ Dixie National Forest

There is nothing like a surprise spring season snow storm to remind southern Utah tourists that the weather conditions in the high elevations can change quickly. For example, back when I worked in Bryce Country, the weather forecast for May Day was light rain early in the day, with steady rain in the late afternoon. When I woke up on May Day morning, plenty of snow was coming down. Brief snow storms are not uncommon during the spring season in the high elevations and when the white stuff comes down it can create some good photo opportunities. This is especially true in a picturesque place like Red Canyon in the Dixie National Forest.  

A tourist who complains about unexpected foul weather in Bryce Country will likely get a response from a local that goes something like,“If You don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes and it will change!” Change was the word of the day when the surprise snow storm struck, especially since it was t-shirt weather the day before. The elevation of Bryce Canyon ranges from 7,000 to 9,000 feet above sea level, so as can be imagined, the spring season weather can be practically unpredictable.  

Spring season snow easily melts on the warm roads, so going on a little scenic drive in the adverse conditions actually is possible. Catching the last round of winter is always a memorable experience, especially when the landscape happens to be the majestic Red Canyon. This red sandstone outcrop area with towering hoodoos sure is a fantastic place to park and watch the last snow of winter come down!