3 Scenic Drives Near Cedar City to Take This Fall

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to explore Southern Utah. As temperatures cool and the landscapes transform with vibrant fall colors, the drive becomes just as memorable as the destination. So, pack your favorite road trip snacks, bring your camera, and discover these three scenic routes to add to your fall itinerary!

Cedar Canyon | Highway 14

Follow East Center Street in Cedar City and head up Cedar Canyon, also referred to as Highway 14. As you travel along Highway 14, you'll find many spots to pull over, admire the fall colors, and enjoy the red rock views including, Right Hand Canyon, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Sydney Valley, and Duck Creek Village.

During fall, the aspen leaves change into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, which create a striking contrast against the rugged mountain terrain and surrounding red rock landscapes. With its winding roads, colorful foliage, and cooler temperatures, Highway 14 is the perfect scenic drive for visitors looking to explore and capture the area.

Make a day of it!

Take your time exploring Cedar Breaks National Monument by stopping at the scenic overlooks and nearby trails to enjoy fall foliage, red rock views, and crisp mountain air. For an extended adventure, continue along Highway 14 towards Navajo Lake near Duck Creek Village, to experience fall colors and nearby lava flows.

Parowan Canyon | Highway 143

For a relaxing fall scenic drive, head north of Cedar City to Parowan, Utah, and follow Highway 143 through the canyon towards Brian Head Town. Along the way, you'll experience winding mountain roads, beautiful scenery, and plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the vibrant fall colors. For additional scenic views, consider exploring nearby areas such as Yankee Meadow Road, Brian Head Town, Sydney Valley and Panguitch Lake.

With the mix of yellow, orange, and red foliage, unique landscapes, and cooler mountain temperatures, this route is perfect for visitors looking to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience the small-town charm of Parowan and Brian Head Town.

Make a day of it!

Explore downtown Parowan before heading up through the canyon, where you can enjoy local businesses and eateries before continuing your adventure. Once you reach Brian Head Town, take in the mountain vies by exploring nearby hiking and mountain biking trails, or rent an ATV from a local outfitter.

Kolob Canyons, North Zion | I-15 to Exit 40

If you're looking for a fall scenic drive with unforgettable red rock views, Kolob Canyons is a must-visit. Located about 20 minutes south of Cedar City via I-15, this quieter section of Zion National Park offers a chance to experience the park's stunning red rock landscape but with lesser crowds. To get there, take Exit 40 right off of I-15 South, and follow the road towards the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center.

With a designated overlook and multiple hiking trails, this scenic drive is perfect for visitors looking to have a national park experience but at a quieter and slower pace. After exploring Kolob Canyons, head back to Cedar City to enjoy local dining and shopping in historic downtown.

Make a day of it!

Stop at the scenic overlook to admire Kolob Canyons, or explore a nearby trail for a closer look at the unique red rock landscape. Plan ahead and remember to pack plenty of water and check the National Park Service website for current road conditions, park updates, and trail information before your visit. 

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