Last Updated on January 28, 2024

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a unique and beautiful place located in the southern part of Utah.

Spread across 1,200 acres, the park is home to a vast sea of pink sand dunes, which are constantly shifting and changing shape in the wind.

The dunes are surrounded by red rock cliffs and mountains, creating a stunning landscape that is unlike anything else in the world.

There are many things to do at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Visitors can hike, bike, sandboard, or ride ATVs on the dunes.

There are also several hiking trails in the park that lead to scenic viewpoints, including the Sand Dune Arch and the Queen’s Garden.

Sand surfing at the Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Sandboarding at Coral Pink Sand Dunes

Recommended Tours

Sandboarding

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, sandboarding is a must-try activity at the park. Rent a sandboard at the visitors center and hit the dunes.

Start small and work your way up to steeper dunes as you gain confidence.

The thrill of sandboarding down the dunes and the sense of accomplishment after a successful ride will leave you wanting more.


Sand Sledding

Another popular activity at Coral Pink Sand Dunes is sledding.

You can bring your sled or rent one at the visitors center. With limited availability, it’s best to rent one early in the morning. Sledding down the dunes is a thrilling experience that will leave you with a rush of excitement.

To avoid falling, keep your feet up and weight back. Feel the wind in your face as you slide down the dunes on a sled.


OHV Riding

For those seeking an off-road adventure, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park offers 1,200 acres of open riding area, making it a perfect spot for off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding.

Visitors can ride their ATVs around the dunes, exploring the stunning landscapes and enjoying the thrill of off-road riding. However, ensure that your OHV is registered and has an orange whiptail flag.

Additionally, operators must have a valid driver’s license or state-recognized certification, and riders 17 and under must wear a helmet at all times.

Explore the dunes on an OHV and feel the rush of adrenaline as you conquer the sand.


Hiking on the Dunes

Take a hike and explore the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. While there are no defined trails within the park, visitors are free to wander and explore the dunes as they want.

Hiking to the top of the dunes provides an excellent workout, and the views from the top are spectacular. Take a short paved walk to an overlook with seating and enjoy the stunning views.

Visitors can also try the “nature trail” surrounding the official overlook platform, which has lots of flora and fauna.


Desert Photography

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a photographer’s paradise.

The park’s unique coral-colored sand dunes provide an incredible backdrop for photos. Visitors can capture breathtaking shots of the dunes and the surrounding landscapes.

Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist, the park offers endless opportunities to capture stunning photos.

With the changing light and shadows, every photo is unique, and you’ll leave the park with memories captured forever.


Camping at Coral Pink Sand Dunes

For those who wish to extend their stay, the park offers a campground with 22 units, modern restrooms, hot showers, and an RV dump station.

Each campsite comes with a picnic table and a grill, perfect for a family barbecue under the stars.

Reservations can be made online, and it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season.


Stargazing

Due to its remote location, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park offers some of the best stargazing opportunities.

On a clear night, visitors can see thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and even some planets.

The park occasionally hosts stargazing events with astronomers and telescopes.


Visitor Center

The visitor center is a great place to start your visit. Here, you can find information about the park, its history, and the unique ecosystem of the dunes.

The center also offers educational exhibits and a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.


Coral Pink Off-road Quad biking
Quad Biking at Coral Pink Sand Dunes

Getting to Coral Pink Sand Dunes

The park is located in southwestern Utah, and the drive from Salt Lake City takes approximately 4.5 hours.

Visitors can use their personal vehicles to explore the park. The park is situated between Mount Carmel Junction and the town of Kanab, making it accessible by car from these two locations.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes is more of a launchpad for activities on the dunes. The facilities, parking, and campground area are smaller compared to the dunes.

Visitors can access the park’s facilities, such as the campground, visitors center, day-use parking, and several OHV dune access points. Visitors can also get a map of the park at the visitors center.


Best Time to Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes

The best time to visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is during the Spring and Fall months, especially if you plan to camp.

Summer months can be hot, and there’s no shade when you’re out playing on the dunes. Also, thunderstorms are common in the summer.

Winter months are cold and windy, and the area occasionally experiences snowstorms.

Therefore, it’s best to visit the park during the Spring and Fall seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the park is less crowded.


Park Fees and Opening Hours

The park is open during daylight hours, 7 days a week, and the fees are $10 per vehicle for day use, while Utah seniors 65 and older pay $5.

A yearly Utah State Park pass costs $100 for Utah residents.

Visitors can call the park or check the park’s website for the most current conditions and visitor center hours.



Read also: Sand Dunes of Utah

Leave a Reply