Have you ever heard of watermelon snow? Well, if you head into Utah’s mountains, you may just see it. This natural phenomenon is when snow on the ground features a red or pink hue. It is not only quite cool to look at but extremely interesting as well. In fact, you may just want to run into the mountains to find some yourself.

Watermelon snow is actually a normal occurrence in mountains all around the world. It is a natural phenomenon that may make you raise an eyebrow if you ever come across it while outdoors.
Bryant Olsen/Flickr
Watermelon snow is a green algae bloom that lives in snowy environments. The species of algae is called Chlamydomonas nivalis.
Dick Culbert from Gibsons, B.C., Canada, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
This algae is typically in a dormant cyst form but when there’s enough snowpack and nutrients, it comes out of dormancy and blooms. If you were to look at the algae under a microscope, it would appear green. It develops the pink/red color as a protective barrier against the sun.
Bryant Olsen/Flickr
While here in Utah we see red and pinkish snow, in other locations around the world, the algae can be different colors such as green and orange.

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Watermelon snow is not harmful to humans or affects the water quality. However, it is recommended that you don't eat it.
ory J. Collier, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
The conditions in Utah's mountains this spring have created the perfect environment for the algae to thrive. For many Utahns, this may be the first time they have seen watermelon snow due to the high snowpack in the mountains.
Bryant Olsen/Flickr
While there are several places throughout the state where you can view watermelon snow, one of the most popular is Tony Grove Lake in Cache Valley. You may find the snow in patches around the lake on nearby hiking trails.
But no matter where you see it, it’s a strange phenomenon that you can tell all of your friends about.
brewbooks/Flickr

Have you spotted watermelon snow in Utah’s mountains? If so, where did you find it? Did you know this strange phenomenon even existed? Let us know in the comments!

Hiking is one of the best ways to view watermelon snow in Utah. But, before you go, make sure you are prepared. Check out our ultimate hiking packing list feature 75 must-haves for your outdoor adventures.

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