Hiking Yant Flat: Utah's Candy Cliffs Guide

Yant Flat to Candy Cliffs is a breathtaking geological wonder near St. George, Utah.

The landscape is known for its colorful swirling patterns and unique rock formations, making it a must-visit destination for hikers and photographers alike.

The Yant Flats showcase the natural beauty and geological diversity of southern Utah.

With experience hiking and photographing this trail, I’ve compiled everything you need to plan your trip, from directions and trail details to photography tips and safety advice.

This guide is here to help you make the most of your visit to this stunning destination.

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How to Get to Yant Flat: Parking, Trailhead, and Directions

Starting Point: St. George, Utah

Head North on I-15: Begin by driving north on Interstate 15 from St. George.
Take Exit 22: Exit at Lees and follow signs for Silver Reef.
Drive Through Leeds: Continue through the town of Leeds, turning onto Oak Grove Road (Forest Road 032).
Follow the Forest Road: Stay on the dirt road for about 13 miles. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, as the terrain can be rugged.
Arrive at Trailhead: Park at the designated area; GPS coordinates are 37.234790, -113.477050.

a person standing on a rocky mountain. Yant Flat — Yant Flats Candy Cliffs. Photo ©JJ. Trailwalker

Hiking Trail Stats

Trail Length: Approximately 3.4 miles round trip, depending on how much you explore
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: Around 337 feet
Trail Type: Out and back
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on exploration time.
Permits: None required
Dogs: Allowed on a leash

Trail Details and What to Expect

The Yant Flats trail begins on the south side of the road with two boulders at the entrance and a brown post.
While the trail is relatively straightforward, it can be confusing at times, so downloading a map via AllTrails or Gaia is highly recommended.
As you hike, you’ll encounter a variety of terrains, including smooth sandstone, sandy stretches, and rocky outcrops. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential to navigating the diverse surfaces comfortably.
The trail culminates in panoramic views of the Candy Cliffs, known for their vibrant red, orange, and white hues – think orange sherbert!

Best Time to Hike Yant Flat

The best seasons to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are cooler, making the hike more enjoyable.

Avoid hiking in the midday summer heat or during heavy rain or snow, as the dirt road to the trailhead can be impassable.

For Photographers: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for capturing the cliffs in the soft, golden light that enhances their colors and textures. Sunset, in particular, provides spectacular lighting for photos.

a rocky landscape with a person on the top. Yant Flat Candy Cliffs Utah — Yant Flats Candy Cliffs. Photo ©JJ. Trailwalker

Photography Tips and Tricks

Golden Hours: Capture the Candy Cliffs during the golden hours (sunrise and sunset) to take advantage of the soft, warm lighting. Sunset is the best for photography, in my opinion.
Polarizing Filter: Use a polarizing filter to reduce haze and enhance the colors of the rocks.
Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing vast, sweeping landscapes.
Composition: Explore the area and experiment with different angles and compositions to highlight the unique patterns and textures of the cliffs.
Scale: Use a person for scale to help showcase the vast landscape.
Drone Photography: Bring a drone to capture aerial views of the intricate textures and patterns.

What to Pack for Your Hike

Daypack – Lightweight and comfortable for essentials.
Water: Bring plenty of water, as there are no water resources at the trailhead or along the hike.
Snacks: High-energy snacks, as you will probably spend more time on the flats than you think!
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses it is wide open on the flats, with not much shade. My favorite piece of hiking gear for sun protection is the REI Sahara Shade Hoodie.
First Aid Kit: Always be prepared.
Navigation: Downloaded map in advance, as there’s no cell service.
Portable Battery for Phone: Keep your phone charged for maps and photos.
Headlamp: Essential for early morning or evening hikes
Satellite SOS Device: A Garmin inReach or similar device is highly recommended for remote areas.
Camera Gear: For photography enthusiasts, pack your camera, lenses, and a drone. Check out my Gear Guide for recommendations.

a dog sitting on a rocky landscape. — Koosah the Tripaw at Yant Flats Candy Cliffs.

Safety Tips and Things to Know

Check the Weather: Avoid hiking in extreme heat or during storms.
Road Conditions: The dirt road can be rough; a 4X4 vehicle is recommended in poor conditions.
No Cell Service: Be prepared for limited connectivity.
No Facilities: There are no restrooms or water sources at the traihead.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and leave the area pristine!

The Yant Flats Candy Cliffs offer an unforgettable hiking and photography experience. Plan your visit soon!