Make Cedar City your home base for an unforgettable four-day adventure exploring nearby national parks and iconic red rock landscapes of Southern Utah. From scenic drives and alpine trails to night skies, Cedar City is the perfect starting point for exploring southern Utah's stunning scenery.
When to Visit: Any Season
DAY ONE: EXPLORE KOLOB CANYONS & HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
AFTERNOON + EVENING
Start your Southern Utah adventure with a short drive on I-15 south, to Kolob Canyons, the northern section of Zion National Park. Take Exit 40 to discover a scenic drive through stunning red rock formations and canyon views. Keep in mind that a national park pass or day-use permit is required prior to entering the park.
After exploring Kolob Canyons, head back to Cedar City and check into your lodging before grabbing a bite to eat from a local restaurant. Depending on what you're in the mood for, consider Fire + Smoke BBQ or head to Bowman's Cowboy Kitchen for a satisfying meal.
To end your day, take a stroll through historic downtown Cedar City. Browse local shops, admire the vibrant mural art, and experience the welcoming atmosphere of the people and community. Keep an eye out for murals inspired by the surrounding landscapes and national parks, including Cedar Breaks and UTAWESOME.
DAY TWO: DISCOVER CEDAR BREAKS NATIONAL MONUMENT & BRIAN HEAD
MORNING + AFTERNOON
Start your morning with breakfast and coffee at The Grind Coffeehouse in downtown Cedar City. Then, swing by Bristlecone to order a picnic lunch to-go before heading east towards Cedar Breaks National Monument. From Center Street, follow Highway 14 for about 21 miles as this route winds you through Cedar Canyon before connecting onto Highway 148 towards the national monument. Along the way, make sure to stop at the Zion Scenic Overlook near mile marker 16 to take in the incredible views.
Once you arrive at your destination, spend the afternoon exploring its vibrant rock formations, mountain views, and hiking trails. Some of our recommended hiking trails include the South Rim Trail (about 5 miles), Sunset Trail (about 2 miles), and Alpine Pond Loop (around 2 miles).
After your hike, visit Brian Head Town to enjoy your packed picnic lunch, take a scenic chairlift ride, or explore the resort's summer activities and mountain biking trails. If you're visiting on a weekend, consider adding a trip to Brian Head Peak for stunning panoramic views of Brian Head and Cedar Breaks.
EVENING
On your way back to Cedar City, stop at Milt's Stage Stop along Cedar Canyon for dinner. Afterwards, unwind with drinks at I/G Winery.
*If you have time, stick around after sunset to enjoy the night sky. Cedar Breaks National Monument is known for its beautiful dark skies, making it a memorable place to stargaze during your trip.
DAY THREE: EXPERIENCE BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
MORNING
Start your morning with breakfast and coffee at The Grind Coffeehouse in downtown Cedar City. Then take Highway 14 to Highway 89 to continue towards Bryce Canyon National Park. Be sure to leave enough time for scenic stops along the way, including the iconic red rock formations and arches of Red Canyon along Highway 12.
AFTERNOON + EVENING
As you make your way towards Bryce Canyon National Park, stop to grab lunch at the Canyon Diner. Take some time post-lunch to browse the shops at Old Bryce Town before heading into the national park. Once inside Bryce Canyon, enjoy the scenic drive to the top of the park, stop at the scenic viewpoints, and explore the trails along the way. Consider exploring one of these popular trails including Sunset to Sunrise Point, Queen's Garden Trail, and the Navajo Loop Trail.
Before heading back to Cedar City, stop for dinner at Ebenezer's Barn and Grill. For your return trip, you can follow the same route back or take an alternate route via Highway 20 to I-15 south.
DAY FOUR: EXPLORE ZION NATIONAL PARK
MORNING + AFTERNOON
Start your morning with an incredible breakfast at The French Spot, featuring a chef recognized by the Michelin Guide. Then, hit the road to Zion National Park for one final day surrounded by Southern Utah's red rock landscape. Depending on which route you plan on taking, consider driving through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Keep in mind that the park has implemented a large vehicle restriction through the tunnel, so check the National Park Service website for updates before your visit.
Once you arrive at the national park, catch the shuttle and spend the afternoon exploring Zion's trails and scenic viewpoints. Depending on your interests and hiking experience, consider these popular hiking options: Angels Landing, Riverside Walk, Emerald Pools, The Narrows, and Pa'rus Trail.
*Remember a national park pass is needed prior to visiting and some hikes require an additional permit.
Take lots of pictures
and share your adventure with us @visitcedarcity
