The best walks and hikes around Cedar Highlands
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103
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Hiking around Cedar Highlands provides access to a diverse landscape characterized by distinctive red rock formations, dramatic canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and high plateaus. As elevation increases, these features transition into lush alpine forests, all situated within the expansive Dixie National Forest. The region offers a vast network of trails that navigate through varied terrain, from canyon floors to higher elevations.
Best hiking trails around Cedar Highlands
- The most popular hiking route is C-Trail, a 7.2 miles (11.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 57 minutes to complete. This moderate hike involves a steady climb to an overlook with views of Cedar City.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Red Hollow Loop, an easy 3.3 miles (5.4 km) path. The route follows a trail through distinctive red rock formations.
- Local hikers also love the Lightning Switch Trail & Ghost Flats loop, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail leading through the Iron Hills, often completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Cedar Highlands is defined by red rock canyons, high plateaus, and alpine forests. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more demanding moderate routes.
- The routes in Cedar Highlands are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 90 hikers have used komoot to explore Cedar Highlands's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
2.62km
00:43
70m
0m
The Coal Creek Trail offers a refreshing, easy hike perfect for a quick escape into nature. This short route is ideal for those seeking a gentle stroll, providing a pleasant experience without demanding terrain or significant climbs. It's a great option for a casual walk, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors at a relaxed pace.
Planning your visit to the Coal Creek Trail is straightforward due to its easy nature and short duration. While specific parking and access details are best confirmed with local sources, the trail's accessibility makes it a convenient choice for an impromptu outing. Consider visiting during daylight hours for the best experience, and always carry water.
This easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hiking trail, with its modest 218 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic choice for families and beginners, taking only about 43 minutes to complete. It serves as an excellent introduction to hiking in the Cedar City area, offering a low-commitment way to enjoy the local environment.
2.09km
00:33
0m
40m
The Cross Hollow Trail in Cedar City, Utah, is a delightful and accessible hike, perfect for a relaxed outing. This easy 1.3-mile (2.1 km) route features a gentle, flat path that winds through sagebrush and juniper trees, with sandy sections and some paved areas. Around 1 kilometer in, you'll find a charming small creek, and the trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making for a scenic 32-minute stroll with only 2 feet (1 meter) of elevation gain.
Planning your visit is straightforward; this trail is known for its accessibility and is part of a multi-use system, welcoming walkers, runners, and cyclists. It's an excellent choice for families or beginners looking for a quick, low-impact outdoor activity. Being located in Cedar City, it's generally easy to reach, though checking local conditions is always a good idea, especially if you're considering a visit during off-peak seasons.
What makes the Cross Hollow Trail particularly interesting is its blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It served as an important route for pioneers, and you can still spot remnants of old wagon tracks along the way. Beyond its history, the trail is home to wildlife such as mule deer, jackrabbits, and various bird species, offering a chance to connect with nature right near Cedar City.
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16
hikers
5.37km
01:42
220m
220m
The Red Hollow Loop offers a fantastic immersion into Southern Utah's red rock country, guiding you through a vibrant canyon with striking red walls and contrasting green conifers. The 3.3-mile (5.4 km) path, which includes 734 feet (224 metres) of elevation gain, features sections of red dirt, rocky terrain, and sandy washes, leading to expansive views from ridgelines. You'll discover unique features like the "Bowling Alley" sandstone cliff and the intriguing Thor's Hide Out lookout, making for a visually engaging hike.
This easy-rated loop takes approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete, though some uphill portions can feel moderate due to steep inclines and loose dirt. It's a multi-use trail, popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, and is considered kid-friendly and dog-friendly (on leash). Be prepared for largely exposed sections with limited shade; there are no restrooms or drinking water at the trailhead, so pack accordingly.
Part of the Thunderbird Canyons Trail system near Cedar City, the Red Hollow Loop provides an accessible glimpse into the region's natural beauty without the crowds often found in more famous national parks. In spring, the trail comes alive with wildflowers such as firecracker penstemon and Indian paintbrush, adding another layer of charm to the already stunning red rock scenery.
11
hikers
5.53km
01:29
60m
60m
The Coal Creek Trail in Cedar City offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic experience, perfect for a relaxed outdoor escape. This paved, all-access route meanders through Cedar Canyon, following the gentle flow of Coal Creek and providing pleasant views towards landmarks like Red Hill. You'll find plenty of benches along the way, inviting you to pause and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Starting conveniently from Bicentennial Park, this easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) trail involves a minimal 204 feet (62 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for families, those with strollers, or anyone looking for a leisurely walk without challenging terrain. Parking is readily available at the park, ensuring a hassle-free start to your outing.
This trail stands out as a family-friendly option in the Cedar City area, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages. Its paved surface makes it suitable for cycling and strollers, distinguishing it from more rugged trails. It’s a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Cedar Canyon without needing specialized hiking gear or extensive planning.
5.0
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7
hikers
11.5km
03:57
650m
650m
Embark on the C-Trail, a moderate hike covering 7.2 miles (11.5 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2137 feet (651 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 3 hours and 57 minutes. As you ascend, the path winds through juniper trees, giving way to pines and aspens at higher altitudes. The terrain features basalt rocks and red dirt, offering increasingly open views of the Cedar City valley below. Your efforts are rewarded at the iconic C-Overlook, where you can take in the vast expanse of the surrounding mountains and desert.
Be aware that the C-Trail is a multi-use route, so you might encounter mountain bikers along the way. For your safety and comfort, hiking poles are a good idea, especially for the descent, as the terrain can be steep and loose. You will find a shaded bench about halfway up the trail, providing a convenient spot to rest and enjoy the scenery before continuing your climb.
This trail is particularly notable for its significant climb to a well-known viewpoint overlooking Cedar City. The C-Overlook provides a unique perspective of the region's diverse landscape, from the desert floor to the distant mountain ranges. Visiting in the fall offers an especially vibrant experience, as the changing leaves add a splash of color to the already scenic route.
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Tips from the Community
Coal Creek has a small waterfall at the end of the Cedar Canyon Trail, which makes a refreshing place to take a rest and observe the nature around you.
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C Trail can be an intense hike uphill, but you will have trees offering some shade and benches along the way to take a break. During the summer, you might find wild flowers, and in winter, it is good to have trekking poles due to the mud caused by snow. Be aware, this trail is shared between hikers and mountain bikers.
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This viewpoint gives a panoramic view of Cedar City and its surroundings. There are informative boards along the overlook telling the history of the city.
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This is a smooth paved trail following the river all the way. It’s a perfect trail to contemplate the landscape and see the different layers of rock that form the canyon. Along the way, you can find informative boards explaining the geology.
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Coal Creek has a small waterfall at the end of the Cedar Canyon Trail, which makes a refreshing place to take a rest and observe the nature around you.
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Red Hollow Trail is easily accessible from Cedar City, a consistent uphill hike offering a good amount of exercise with nice views of the canyons and the city. A perfect day hike!
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This lookout delivers a beautiful view of Cedar Canyon. As it is not so high or difficult to access, you can even do it during winter to see the beautiful contrast of white snow with the red rocks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Cedar Highlands area?
Yes, the region offers several accessible trails perfect for families. A great option is the Cedar Canyon Trail — Cedar City. It's a relatively flat, paved path that follows the canyon, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Cedar Highlands?
Many trails in the surrounding Dixie National Forest are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike, especially if it enters a national monument or park where rules can be stricter. It's also important to carry enough water for your pet, as the climate can be very dry.
Are there any hikes that lead to a waterfall?
Yes, the Kanarra Creek Trail to Kanarraville Falls is a well-known hike in the region that features a beautiful waterfall. This trail involves hiking in a stream through a slot canyon, so be prepared with appropriate footwear. It's a rewarding experience, especially on a warm day.
What are some of the more challenging hikes available near Cedar Highlands?
For those seeking a strenuous adventure, the area offers several demanding routes. The Rattlesnake Creek to Ashdown Gorge trail is a challenging 9.7-mile trek popular for backpacking. Another tough option is the Blowhard Mountain Trail, a 13.5-mile hike that rewards with exceptional views from the summit.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Cedar Highlands?
The trails around Cedar Highlands are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the stunning contrast between the red rock formations and the high-altitude alpine forests. The well-maintained trail systems and the spectacular views overlooking the valleys are also commonly mentioned highlights.
What is the C Overlook Trail?
The 'C' Overlook refers to a popular viewpoint above Cedar City, accessible via the C Trail — Cedar City. This hike is a steady climb that leads to a large letter 'C' on the mountainside, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. It's a local favorite for both daytime hikes and watching the sunset.
Where are the best places to see fall colors?
The high-altitude forests around Cedar Highlands offer spectacular fall foliage. The drive along Utah's Scenic Byway 14 through Cedar Canyon is particularly beautiful, with vibrant aspens turning gold and orange. Hikes within the Dixie National Forest, especially around Navajo Lake, provide immersive experiences to enjoy the autumn colors.
Are there any good options for long-distance backpacking?
Yes, the 32-mile Virgin River Rim Trail is an excellent option for backpacking. It runs along the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, offering incredible views and a diverse landscape. The trail is shared with mountain bikers and horseback riders and can be completed in sections or as a multi-day trek.
What are some popular trailheads to start a hike from?
Several well-regarded trailheads serve the area. The Thunderbird Garden Trailhead is a popular starting point for routes like Thor's Hideout. For access to the Iron Hills Trail System, the C Overlook Trailhead is a primary access point. Further up the canyon, the Ashdown Gorge Trailhead provides entry to a beautiful wilderness area.
Which hike offers the best views?
For expansive, high-altitude views, the Spectra Point Trail in nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument is hard to beat. This short hike leads to an overlook of a massive natural amphitheater filled with colorful rock spires and hoodoos. It's an unforgettable vista, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Are there any loop trails available?
Yes, there are several enjoyable loop hikes. The Lichen it and Iron Giants loop — Cedar City is a moderate 4.6-mile route that takes you through the rolling terrain of the Iron Hills, offering a complete circuit without backtracking.
What is the best time of year to hike around Cedar Highlands?
Spring and fall are generally the best times to hike, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with spring wildflowers or autumn colors. Summer can be very hot, especially at lower elevations, so early morning starts are recommended. Winter brings snow to the higher elevations, making many trails suitable for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, but access can be limited.
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