Sunday Hike: Diamond Valley Cinder Cone
Welcome back to another edition of our Sunday Hike series! This week, we're exploring the fascinating Diamond Valley Cinder Cone near Ivins, Utah. Nestled beside the stunning Snow Canyon State Park, this hike offers a unique glimpse into the area's volcanic past and rewards hikers with breathtaking 360-degree views.
The Diamond Valley Cinder Cone trail is a relatively short but sweet adventure, covering approximately 1.9 miles round trip. Don't let the brief distance fool you, though – this hike packs quite a punch in terms of both scenery and geological interest.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this hike is the window it provides into Southern Utah's volcanic history. Many visitors to the area are surprised to learn that this region was once a hotbed of volcanic activity. The Diamond Valley Cinder Cone is just one remnant of this fiery past, forming part of the larger Santa Clara Volcanic Field. The last eruption in this area occurred roughly 32,000 years ago – a blink of an eye in geological terms, yet long before human settlement in the region. Standing atop the cinder cone, it's awe-inspiring to imagine the landscape as it once was, alive with volcanic activity.
For those unfamiliar with volcanic formations, a cinder cone is essentially a steep, conical hill of volcanic fragments that accumulate around and downwind from a volcanic vent. The Diamond Valley Cinder Cone is a textbook example of this formation. As you ascend the trail, you'll notice the ground beneath your feet is covered in small, dark rocks. These are the "cinders" – fragments of lava that were ejected from the volcano, cooled, and solidified in flight before raining down around the vent. It's a tangible connection to the area's explosive past.
The trail begins innocuously enough, with a relatively gentle grade. However, as you approach the cone itself, the incline becomes more pronounced. While the path isn't always clearly marked, the destination is obvious – just keep heading up! As you climb, the views begin to unfold around you. To one side, the red rock formations of Snow Canyon State Park create a striking contrast against the sky. On the other, the green expanses of Pine Valley Mountain offer a completely different vista. It's a study in the diverse landscapes of Southern Utah.
The final push to the summit is arguably the most challenging part of the hike. The loose, gravelly surface of the cone can make footing a bit tricky, so take your time and watch your step. But once you reach the top, any exertion is quickly forgotten as you take in the panoramic views. It's a moment that tends to inspire quiet contemplation of the vast, varied landscape stretching out in every direction.
The Diamond Valley Cinder Cone hike offers more than just scenic views – it's like stepping into a geological time machine. The region around St. George and Ivins showcases various geological eras in striking proximity to one another. The iconic red rocks of the area date back to the Jurassic period, some 150 to 200 million years ago. In contrast, the volcanic features you're exploring on this hike are relative newcomers, formed during the Quaternary period – the most recent chapter of Earth's history, spanning the last 2.6 million years.
This volcanic activity was part of a larger geological process known as the Basin and Range extension, where tectonic forces stretched and thinned the Earth's crust in this region. Standing atop the cinder cone, you're perched on evidence of these massive, earth-shaping forces – a humbling reminder of our planet's dynamic nature.
While the geological features may take center stage, the local wildlife and plant life add depth to the hiking experience. Keep an eye out for lizards basking on sun-warmed rocks or hawks circling overhead. If you're particularly fortunate, you might spot a desert tortoise or hear the distinctive rattle of a rattlesnake (from a safe distance, of course). The plant life in this area is equally fascinating, showcasing the remarkable adaptations that allow life to thrive in this arid environment. Yucca plants, various cacti species, and, in the spring, a sprinkling of hardy wildflowers add color and texture to the landscape.
For the most enjoyable experience, consider hiking in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly during the warmer months. The trail offers little shade, and the desert sun can be intense. An early start not only makes for a more comfortable hike but also offers the possibility of a spectacular sunrise view from the summit. Alternatively, timing your hike to reach the top for sunset can be magical – just be sure to bring a headlamp for the descent.
When preparing for this hike, be sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), sturdy closed-toe shoes with good traction, a camera to capture the views, snacks or a light meal to enjoy at the summit, and a basic first aid kit.
The 360-degree view from the top of the Diamond Valley Cinder Cone is truly the highlight of this hike. To the west, the red rock formations of Snow Canyon State Park seem to glow in the sunlight. Northward, the forested slopes of Pine Valley Mountain rise in the distance, showcasing the rapid transition from desert to alpine environments. On clear days, you can even glimpse the majestic cliffs of Zion National Park to the east.
Perhaps most captivating is the view into the crater of the cinder cone itself. The perfect bowl shape offers a stark reminder of the volcanic forces that shaped this landscape. Standing on the rim, it's easy to let your imagination wander back to a time when this was an active volcano, spewing ash and lava into the prehistoric sky.
There's something profoundly moving about taking in these views and reflecting on the immense spans of time they represent. The Jurassic-era red rocks, the much younger volcanic cones, the gradual work of wind and water shaping the canyons – all these processes unfolded over millions of years, creating the landscape we see today. It's a perspective that tends to shift one's thinking, highlighting both the transient nature of our human timescales and the enduring, ever-changing character of the Earth itself. It's not just a hike; it's a journey through deep time, written in stone.
To reach this geological wonder, start from St. George and head north on Bluff Street, which becomes Snow Canyon Parkway. Continue to the roundabout at the entrance of Snow Canyon State Park and take the first exit onto Snow Canyon Drive. Follow Snow Canyon Drive for approximately 1.5 miles, then look for a dirt road on your right – this is the trailhead, with a small parking area available. While the trailhead isn't prominently marked, the cinder cone is visible from the road, serving as your beacon.
The Diamond Valley Cinder Cone hike offers a perfect blend of accessibility and reward. It's short enough to fit comfortably into a morning or afternoon yet provides a wealth of natural beauty and geological interest. Whether you're a geology enthusiast, a lover of sweeping vistas, or simply someone who enjoys a good walk in a unique landscape, this hike delivers.
As always, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails to protect the fragile desert ecosystem, and leave natural objects and artifacts in place for others to enjoy.
Here's to the joy of discovery and the simple pleasure of a Sunday hike. Until next time, happy trails!
