Immerse yourself in a world of wonder as the area surrounding Cedar City and Brian Head puts on a dazzling show; dressed in its fall finest.
Check out 9 of our favorite ways to experience fall in southern Utah using the guide below 👇🍂
1. Visit Cedar Breaks National Monument
Combine vibrant red rock formations, scenic drives, and fall leaves and Cedar Breaks National Monument becomes a perfect fall destination. For the best fall colors hike the Alpine Pond Loop. This trail winds through spruce‑fir, and aspen forest then past the spring‑fed Alpine Pond. Or follow the rim of the amphitheater to stunning overlooks on the Ramparts/Spectra Point Trail. Cedar Breaks is open late May to mid-November.
Admission Cost is $10 per person over the age of 16. National Park passes accepted.
2. OHV Adventure in Brian Head
A sure‑fire way to find beautiful fall colors in the area is with an OHV adventure through the backcountry. With rentals and a map from Brian Head Outdoor Adventures, you'll find hidden wonders along the way to the High Mountain Viewpoint, looking into Cedar Breaks National Monument.
Learn more and plan your next adventure at utahatvtentals.com
3. Hike the Twisted Forest Trail
Start the day off with unbelievable views on a hike along the Twisted Forest Trail in Brian Head. This 2‑mile trail offers up‑close views of ancient Bristlecone Pine trees and fabulous vistas above Cedar Breaks National Monument. The trailhead is located on Summit Mountain Road, keep to the High Mountain Rd side.
4. Drive the Scenic Fall Color Loop
Beginning in Parowan, the Fall Color Loop will follow Scenic Byway Hwy 143 through Parowan Canyon to Brian Head Resort. A few miles after the resort, continue on Hwy 143 east toward Panguitch. Known as the Patchwork Parkway, Hwy 143 is like the blocks of a quilt; weaving through an astounding patchwork of historic towns, geological formations, and recreational opportunities that appeal to all – from sightseers and leaf peepers to high adventure fanatics.
5. Visit Navajo Lake
Recreate among the lava beds and hike, bike, fish, or boat surrounded by beautiful fall colors at Navajo Lake in Dixie National Forest.
Local Tip: Get a closer look at the fall colors around the lake by taking the 12-mile Navajo Lake Loop Trail. This is a multi‑use trail open to hiking and mountain bikes.
6. Check out the Local Mountain Bike Scene
Fall in Cedar City is a great time to get out and take advantage of the variety of outdoor recreation opportunities around us. Bring your bike (or rent one from a local outfitter) and check out the mountain bike trails at Three Peaks Recreation Area! Brush up your skills on the Practice Loop or discover something new on the Lost World Trail.
7. Local Farms and Harvest Events
Cedar City and Parowan are fortunate to be home to some incredible local farms that offer community events, fresh produce, and incredible drinks, food, and hand‑crafted items in their farm stores!
Local Tip: Plan your visit for one of their special events to add a dose of wonder to your visit. Find events at visitcedarcity.com
8. Visit Kolob Canyons (North Zion)
As fall moves forward and the leaves at high elevations are past their color peak, the fall foliage in the north side of Zion National Park, Kolob Canyon, is still putting on a show. Along the five‑mile scenic drive, visitors can see vibrant fall colors standing out against towering red rock formations. For an up‑close‑and‑personal view of the colors take a hike along the Taylor Creek Trail.
Admission cost is $35 for a pass, valid 7 days. National Park passes accepted.
9. Fall Equinox at the Parowan Gap
Sunsets and fall seem to go hand in hand and we know a great place to sit and watch the sunset! The Parowan Gap Petroglyphs is an incredible site just 13 miles north of Cedar City. The jutting walls of Navajo Sandstone seem to rise from nowhere, forming a natural passageway with walls adorned with petroglyphs. During the equinox event, visitors can stand at a designated "equinox cairn" to see the sunset align perfectly with the formations.
This event happens the third weekend of September.