17 Jul 2019
5 Things to do at Navajo Lake
Recreate among the lava beds and swim among the clouds at Navajo Lake, Dixie National Forest.
The Navajo Lake recreation area is located atop Cedar Mountain (approximately 25 miles east of Cedar City). This pristine lake was originally known to the Paiutes as “Pa-Cu-Ay”, meaning “Cloud Lake”. Early pioneer settlers gave it its present name after a confrontation took place near the lake between the settlers and some traveling members of the Navajo tribe. Formed by an ancient lava flow, Navajo Lake has a naturally occurring dam on the eastern side of the lake valley.
Hike Cascade Falls
Resting on a layer of limestone, the lake soon developed underground drainage through sink holes. Some of the water drains towards the Pacific Ocean via Cascade Falls and the Virgin River (the river that formed Zion Canyon). See several varieties of plant life and incredible views of the Zion/Kolob Terrace along this one mile, round trip, hike that leads you to a beautiful waterfall.
Kayak or Paddle Board on the Lake
Spend an afternoon on the cool-clear waters going from the shore to the man made dike that stretches across the lake. Take the pups and have a great time!
Explore the Lava Beds
Ancient lava beds surround the pristine Navajo Lake and Duck Creek areas. One of the more interesting features of the lava beds is Mammoth Cave. This tunnel of lava tube was formed by cooling lava and water. The cave is about 1/4 mile long and is safe to explore if proper care is taken. Mammoth Cave is located about a 1/4 mile of the Mammoth Creek Rd.
There are signs that direct travelers to the site.
Mountain Bike Along the Navajo Lake Loop Trail
This winding 12 mile loop around the lake is great for novices with relatively few climbs. The views are incredible and there are even some great spots to stop for lunch along the way!
Stay at the Rustic Lodge and Explore
Fish in the lake, hit the ATV trails, swim, stargaze, and hike. There is so much available at Navajo Lake that there’s no reason to leave before spending at least a few days there! Relax and unwind in the cool mountain air as you lose yourself in incredible outdoor recreation activities and some stunning views.
For more information check out Navajo Lake under the THINGS TO DO tab on our homepage or stop by the visitor center at 581 N Main Street in Cedar City.