You don't have to spend all day on the trail to experience Southern Utah's incredible scenery! Even with a short window and an easy hike, you can find incredible views while exploring in Cedar City. These trails are perfect for a short hike with views that you and your camera roll will love. 

Close to Town | 15 Minutes or Less From Downtown

From paved trails with stroller access and great views of the canyon, to a moderate hike (perfect for the whole family) through bright rock formations to cool scenic spots, here are three trails close to town that are perfect for a quick hike between activities. The trails are friendly, the views are unique, and the commute is nothing. 

Cedar Canyon Trail Bridge

Cedar Canyon

CEDAR CITY, UT - Following Cedar City’s Coal Creek, this gently rolling paved trail leads to a pair of bridges and waterfalls in Cedar Canyon that are surrounded by views of the area’s famous red rocks. The trailhead is located in the Ann J. Gardner Canyon Park at 151…

Mountain Biking - Lichen It Trail - Cedar City, UT Marc Piscotty © 2017

Lichen It

CEDAR CITY, UT - Easy trail that meanders its way up the hill. Turn around once you have reached the Upper Lava Flow trail. Please be aware this is a popular trail among mountain bikers; use caution around corners. Trailhead location: South end of Cedar City, the Southview…

Thors Lookout Trail

Thor’s Hideout And Lookout

CEDAR CITY, UT - Some steep climbs and switchbacks through fabulous red-rock country to a stunning view of Cedar City and unique rock outcroppings. This trail is dog-friendly and also popular with mountain bikers. Trailhead location: Thunderbird Gardens on 900 N (behind Cedar…

*Take the Thor's Hideout Trail (not the Lookout Trail) for a shorter trail option that ends in a unique rock formation that resembles our favorite SUU mascot, Thor! 

Hiking in Thunderbird Gardens in Cedar City, Utah
View of "Thor" on the Thor's Hideout Trail near Cedar City, UT. 


On the Mountain | Short hikes within a Scenic Drive

Within a 40-minute scenic drive, these two short trails take you to views you won't believe! Find ancient Bristlecone Pines from a wooden observation deck with views of Zion National Park in the distance. And the Sunset Trail at Cedar Breaks is a paved all-access trail that winds through wildflowers and forest on the way to a scenic overlook. 

Hiker with dog on the Bristlecone Pine Trail

Bristlecone Pine

DIXIE NATIONAL FOREST, UT - It is an easy trail that is great for families from late spring to fall. Enjoy views of Zion National Park from an observation deck as you wander among a grove of ancient Bristlecone Pines.  Trailhead location: At the top of Cedar Canyon (Hwy 14)…

Sunset View

Sunset Trail

CEDAR BREAKS NATIONAL MONUMENT, UT - This accessible paved trail runs between the Point Supreme Overlook and Sunset View Overlook. The park picnic area is located at the halfway point of this trail near the campground. Built to offer all ages and abilities the opportunity to…

Cedar Breaks Sunset Overlook - full image
Views from the Sunset Overlook at the end of the Sunset Trail in Cedar Breaks National Monument. 


BONUS: Scenic Walking Spots With Unique Views

Sometimes you don't have time or feel like hiking an entire trail, and a scenic spot for a walk can be a great addition to your travel plans for the day. These two spots, while not designated hiking trails, have paved all-access walkways that allow the entire family to join. 

Downtown Cedar City: Beverley Center for the Arts & Sculpture Gardens 

Home to the Utah Shakespeare Festival, Southern Utah Museum of Art, and two beautifully landscaped sculpture gardens, the Beverley Center is a great place for an afternoon walk to find unique scenery and photo-worthy views. 


Parowan Gap Petroglyphs

Find over a thousand petroglyphs carved into dark Navajo Sandstone in this incredible historic site, 20 minutes from Cedar City. These glyphs don't require any hiking to see, making them an accessible destination for all members of your family, and a one-of-a-kind afternoon destination. 

 

*Additional information is included in the slides below. 


 

Travel safe, take lots of pictures

and share your adventure with us @visitcedarcity