Rugged Rides + Red Rock Views: Why Bikers Love Cedar City

Three systems, miles of trails, and so much to explore along the way; it's easy to make a full vacation out of mountain biking in Cedar City! And that's before you factor in the trails in Parowan and Brian Head.
So where should you start? What should you know about each system, and when should you visit? 

We've got you covered! 

Finding a Bike Rental in Town

Sometimes bringing the bikes with you isn't doable, and that's why we love our local outfitters! They make it easy to rent a bike, hit the trails, experience the best of the area, and return the bike for a stress-free travel experience. 

Our outfitters in Cedar City who offer mountain bike/road bike rentals include: 

Finding a Trail System

We've got red rock, high desert, lava flows, and more; take your pick! Cedar City is home to three unique mountain bike systems that each vary in difficulty, views, and challenges. 

There's something to love about each trail system! *For trail info, click the button included below*
 

Iron Hills Trail System

Things we love: 

• Close to town (can bike there from your hotel) 
• The Iron Hills Trail System is a designated National Recreation Trail
• Spans 16 trails over 30 miles
• Trails range in difficulty from green to black (easy to very difficult) 
• Cool lava flows and sweeping valley views

Thunderbird Gardens Trail System

Things we love: 

• Close to town (minutes from downtown) 
• Unique rock formations and red rock views
• There's an 18 hole disc golf course here too! 
• Higher difficulty, not recommended for beginners
• Fun and challenging trails

Three Peaks Recreation Area Trail System

Things we love: 

• Quiet location about 15 minutes from town
• High desert landscapes and rolling boulders
• Pavilions for shade and restrooms are available
• A mix of difficulty from easy to hard
• Doubles as a great camping/stargazing location

Planning Your Visit

So when should you visit? The honest answer is, there's a trail open in every season, and something unique to see any time you visit. We've broken it down by season below with pros and cons for each season to help you plan your visit. 

When to visit Cedar City for a mountain bike getaway: 

SPRING

• Cooler temperatures and quieter trails
• Option to add a skiing getaway in Brian Head to your visit
• Pretty new green growth and spring sunsets at each trail system
• Keep in Mind: Our trail systems close for snow or rain to protect the trails (spring might still be wet) 

SUMMER

• SO much to see and do outside of biking! 
• Can pair the Brian Head Resort bike park with your adventure for even more trails
• Trails will have more riders, but you can get tips from locals on the best rides
• Keep in Mind: Southern Utah is a desert, so pack enough water, and plan activities around the hottest time of day. 

FALL

• Gorgeous fall colors around each of the trail systems highlighted
• Cooler temperatures as we head into winter
• Quiet trails and local events to add to your visit
• The mountain bike park in Brian Head is still open, so you can extend your visit

WINTER

• Quiet trails and beautiful winter landscapes
• One trail system open - Three Peaks Recreation Area
• Great opportunity for Fat Tire Biking on Cedar Mountain 
• Can easily catch a ski lift after or before your ride
• Keep in Mind: Our trail systems close for snow or rain to protect the trails
   

Why You Should Join Us

The mountain bike trail systems in Cedar City have a mix of unique challenges, beautiful views, national recognition, and fun. Our trails are built by locals who love sharing the area and their hard work with other mountain bike enthusiasts. Even beyond the mountain biking itself, there is always something new to discover in Cedar City. From Shakespeare beneath the stars with the Utah Shakespeare Festival to powder turns at Brian Head Resort, there's a chance to fill the afternoon with adventure, even if you need a break from the trails. 

Cedar City is home to enthusiastic guides who would love to show you the night sky, home to more locally owned restaurants than chains, and home to unique landscapes and historic sites like the Parowan Gap. 

You just need to know how to find it. #VisitCedarCity