Overview
Cedar Mountain is the high plateau that rises above Cedar City's eastern edge, accessible via the dramatic UT-14 Cedar Canyon corridor that climbs from the Mojave Desert transition zone to the mixed conifer forests of Dixie National Forest in a few miles. The 8-mile loop traverses the mountain's upper plateau at roughly 10,000-10,400 feet, gaining 1,600 feet from the trailhead before leveling off on the high ground.
The views from the plateau are the route's primary reward. To the west, the Great Basin Desert extends toward Nevada, the flat valley floors separated by north-south mountain ranges in the Basin and Range pattern. To the south, the Hurricane Cliffs mark the edge of the Colorado Plateau. The contrast between these two provinces, the high, rocky, forested plateau and the open desert below, is visible and dramatic from the rim.
Cedar City has both Southern Utah University and the Utah Shakespeare Festival, drawing visitors who may not otherwise be there for outdoor recreation. Cedar Mountain provides those visitors with a serious hiking option that is genuinely within reach.
The Route
Miles 0 to 3.0: Canyon Approach and Plateau Ascent
The trail begins near UT-14 and climbs through the canyon east of the highway via switchbacks through mixed ponderosa pine and Gambel oak. The grade is steady and significant in this section, gaining roughly 1,200 feet by mile 3. The canyon walls provide some shade in the morning. Views of Cedar City below open as the trail gains elevation.
Miles 3.0 to 5.5: Plateau Traverse
The trail levels onto the plateau and crosses the high ground with consistent views in multiple directions. The vegetation shifts to mixed conifer with aspen parkland. The plateau surface is rocky in sections but generally clear. The views of the Great Basin and Hurricane Cliffs are best from this section.
Miles 5.5 to 8.0: West Descent Return
The loop descends via the western slope back toward UT-14, through denser aspen and spruce-fir forest. The descent is gradual and the western slope stays in the shade longer in the morning.
When to Visit
May through October. The lower portions of the trail are accessible earlier in spring. The plateau section typically clears by late May in most years. Fall is excellent, the aspen corridor along the approach is brilliant from late September through mid-October, and UT-14 itself is one of the better fall color drives in southern Utah.
Afternoon thunderstorms in July and August are a concern on the exposed plateau. Plan to begin descent by noon when storms are developing. Check forecasts using NOAA resources before departure.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 2 to 2.5 liters of water (small streams possible on the plateau in wet years; filter required)
- Wind and rain layer for the exposed plateau
- Sun protection
- Trekking poles for the steep initial ascent and descent
Consider bringing:
- Binoculars for the Great Basin views from the plateau rim
- A camera for the Cedar Canyon approach and the aspen color in fall
Practical Details
No restroom facilities at the trailhead. Cell service may be limited but sometimes available near UT-14. Free parking. Review Leave No Trace principles for plateau hiking. Stay on the marked trail to protect fragile high-altitude soils.
For an overview of what to expect on national forest land, including dispersed camping rules and campfire permit requirements, see our educational guides.
Getting There
From Cedar City, take UT-14 east approximately 15-20 miles toward Cedar Breaks and Duck Creek Village. The Cedar Mountain trailhead is signed off UT-14. UT-14 is paved throughout and accessible to standard vehicles from May through November. The Cedar City Ranger District office can provide a current trail map and confirm trailhead conditions.