Are you heading to Cedar City for a mini-vacation or a recent transplant to this Utah wonder? You’ll quickly see why so many people fall in love with the nature, residents, and attractions nearby.

Although the area is known for the many Cedar City activities that take place throughout the year, nature lovers can’t miss out on the hiking trails! Whether you’re here for the day or calling Cedar City your new home, be sure to pick one of these breathtaking trails on this top 10 list and let it be your introduction to the wonder of the area’s natural beauty. 

1. Kolob Arch via La Verkin Creek Trail

The La Verkin Creek Trail to the Kolob Arch is located in the Zion Wilderness. Trekkers come here to catch a glimpse of the Kolob Arch, one of the largest natural arches in the world at 287 feet long and 75 feet thick. To get there, you’ll need to hike the seven-mile trail that begins at Lee Pass, but the incredible views of the Kolob Canyons along the way will make the time go by fast! 

This is the trail to hit if you’re looking to stay isolated and avoid the amenities of modern living. That said, be sure to plan for at least a day’s worth of food and water, a first-aid kit, and other emergency essentials. Much of the trail is hard-packed, but with seven miles until you’re near the trailhead, wildlife and accidents are always possible!

2. Taylor Creek – Middle Fork

If you don’t mind getting a little wet, visiting the Double Arch via the Middle Fork – Taylor Creek Trail is for you! From rock formations that will spark your curiosity, a picture-perfect waterfall, and a bit of history along the way in the form of old cabins, the Double Arch alcove is a crowd-favorite trail. 

The Middle Fork of Taylor Creek trailhead begins with some steep steps, but once you’re past them, the rest of the 2.5-mile trail is sandy and easy to moderate. Along the way, you’ll cross streams at least a dozen times, ending at the Double Arch Alcove.

3. Ashdown Gorge Trail

The Ashdown Gorge Trail is considered a moderately easy hike, but it takes you 3,400 feet down through the forests and desert canyons of the area. You’ll be immersed in the red rocks of the Cedar Breaks National Monument, the slot canyons, waterfalls, and limestone cliffs. However, to really get all of the thrills out of your experience, consider getting an overnight pass. 

Ashdown Gorge is also known for its canyoneering. This popular sport takes you into the canyons through swimming, hiking, and rappelling, but in Ashdown Gorge, you can canyoneer without rappelling or swimming.

4. Spectra Point Trail

The Spectra Point Trail is in Cedar Breaks National Monument, where hikers can explore the out-and-back trail to see the hoodoos and the canyon’s amphitheaters. The trail is about two miles total. Along the way, you’ll trek through a pine forest at high altitudes, and the high elevation gives you a significant change in geological formations.

This trail is moderate, starting with a downhill trek and a climb through the pine forest, where you’ll pass bristlecone pines up to 1600 years old! Take time to explore the flora along the way. You’ll be glad you did!

5. Rainbow Canyon to Petroglyph Cave

Ready to sprinkle a little color into your life? Head to Rainbow Canyon, where not only are you stepping back in time, but you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous, colorful views of caves, plants, ravines, and tunnels. It’s a quick 1.4 round-trip trail, but you’ll want to add extra time to explore the centuries-old petroglyphs in Petroglyph Cave. Keep in mind that there’s very limited shade here, so you’ll want to bring a hat, sunscreen, and extra water.

From the trailhead, follow the wash and head to the right. You’ll run into a large mountain on the left and might think you hit a dead-end. However, you’ll take a small climb up a trail to the rock cave. Go through the rock cave, and you’ll find the petroglyphs above the cave’s exit. These small symbols show evidence of the people whose footsteps you just followed.

6. Bartizan Arch Trail

High up in elevation, the Shooting Star Waterfall awaits as a reward when you cross the Bartizan Arch Trail. Located in the Cedar Breaks National Monument, the Bartizan Arch is a triple arch, rarely seen anywhere else in the world. The backcountry trail goes beyond the Ramparts Trail, so you’ll be trekking across paths that aren’t maintained. The wilds are worth the work, but they’re not for newbies! Seasoned hikers only should attempt this unique, yet challenging, hike.

7. Alpine Pond Nature Trail

Looking for a more family-friendly hike? Try the Alpine Ponds Nature Trail. This two-mile loop, also in Cedar Breaks National Monument, is a steady climb to 10,000 feet with minimal elevation change. You can walk from the north to the south loop, or park your car at the south loop and walk up. Although it’s only two miles, the high elevation will slow most hikers down because of the change in air pressure. Along the way, you’ll pass plenty of animals and a few ponds!

8. Thor’s Hideout Trail

If you’re trying to stay closer to Cedar City, Thor’s Hideout Trail keeps you near the downtown area. It’s a favorite for locals and visitors who want to hike and bike without a long drive. The steady incline goes up steadily, then down Thor’s Hideout Trail. To get back, you’ll trek Thor’s Lookout Trail, where the scenic views are sure to make the trip worthwhile. Don’t be too distracted looking around, though, as the rocks and trail tend to get slippery here!

9. Red Hollow Slot Canyon

Not too far from Thor’s Hideout Trail is the Red Hollow Slot Canyon, keeping you tucked close to your stay in Cedar City. This family-friendly canyon is ideal for beginners and little ones. The roads to get there are paved, with the trailhead starting at the city water facility. It’s hear Zion National Park, too, making it an easy trip if your family falls in love with hiking and wants to try something a little more challenging!

10. Thunderbird Gardens

For the outdoor sportsperson in your group, Thunderbird Gardens has it all. Not only is it a wonderful place for a hike, but there’s an 18-hole disc golf course by the trailhead for a day of fun and games after your exploration through the trails. 

 

Thunderbird Gardens is just a few minutes away from downtown Cedar City. Play on the red rock playground, ride a mountain bike across the miles of bike trails, birdwatch, or simply become one with nature on the hiking trails. There’s a little of something for everyone here!