Yankee Meadows Reservoir & Scenic Drive
The scenery through this canyon is unbelievable! There's nothing quite like a scenic drive through the Yankee Meadow Rd portion of Parowan Canyon with the windows down and fresh mountain air. Winding through towering vermilion canyon walls and past unique grey rock formations and a beautiful forest, if you plan your getaway for July, you'll even find wildflowers along the way. At the reservoir itself, there's clear water and quiet spaces perfect for setting up a hammock and enjoying a quiet getaway.
Red Hollow Trail in Cedar Canyon/Thunderbird Gardens
Surprisingly quiet for five minutes from downtown and being right off the highway that winds through Cedar Canyon, this trail is the perfect place for an early morning or sunset hike. Winding through vibrant red rock, lined with high-desert vegetation and bright wildflowers, it's a great nature walk opportunity. This trail is pet-friendly, so you can hike solo or with your pet, and while it can be a bit of a climb, the views are worth it.
Three Peaks Recreation Area
Rolling hills of volcanic rock, miles and miles of mountain bike and OHV trails, two full disc golf courses, we love a weekend escape to Three Peaks Recreation Area. Only 10 miles west of Cedar City, you're close enough to town to make it a quick getaway. Pets, visitors, and wildlife enjoy running through and over the hunchbacked granite outcroppings that sweep through the landscape. There are spots for rock climbing, observing desert wildlife like lizards and jackrabbits, and some overnight camp areas that are a great spot for stargazing.
Parowan Gap Petroglyphs
This historic site is an area with beautiful views and unique geology that is accentuated by historic petroglyphs carved into the dark desert stone. This natural thoroughfare was used by ancient peoples living in and traveling through the area and was carved with stories over time. With over 90 panels and 1,500 figures, the Gap is believed to be one of the most concentrated collections of petroglyphs in the West. Out of the way from Cedar City and Parowan, the canyon this historic site is in is home to desert wildlife, nesting birds, and some beautiful sunset and night sky views.
Iron Hills Trail System
A designated National Recreation Trail, biking and hiking on the Southview Trail system is some of the best in the area. Barely outside of town limits on the south end of town, it's surprisingly quiet on the trails. Whether you prefer to listen to the whir and click of the bike or a carefully crafted playlist through your headphones, this trail system is an easy favorite for locals and visitors.
Find trail information for the Iron Hills Trail System here.
