Fall Foliage Near Cedar City Without The Park Fees

Sometimes I feel like I'm belaboring the point, but we live in an area with unparalleled beauty. Yes, it may be fun to head off for vacation for a get away. And yes, places like Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite, or for the more adventuresome, Denali up in Alaska will be spectacular to the eyes.

But, right now, one of the greatest natural shows on earth is happening right in our backyard. And a park pass is not necessary to take in this show.

For those of us who have spent some time in the area, hearing about the beauty you can see as the leaves start to change colors before falling is nothing new. But, if you are new to the area, then now is the time to take a trip up the mountains above Cedar City to take in the show.

Such was the case for me and my wife yesterday. It was definitely worth the time.

Plenty Of Choices For Your Leaf Peeping!

There are several options you can follow as you head up the mountain. The route we took had us going up Right Hand Canyon. We made a stop at the “C” overlook to take a look at the valley, but right behind us was a wall of colors to inspire the mind. We continued farther up the mountain on the way over towards Kolob Reservoir. Just so you know, as we went higher up the mountain toward the cutoff to Kanaraville most of the leaves had already fallen from the trees.

The route we took was certainly not the only option. Many chose to head up Highway 14, but then cutoff and take the road over to Cedar Breaks National Monument. The National Park Service recommends the road between Chessmen Ridge Overlook and North View Overlook for fall-color viewing, and the contrast between the golden aspens and the red/orange cliffs is pretty spectacular. This is the one area where you may need a park pass, or pat an admission fee.

Going a little further up the mountain, many of the leaves have fallen, but according to the Fall Colors Report, there are still some very nice pockets of colors around Navajo Lake.

One other thought. It's easy to turn this into a nice family outing. Grab some picnic supplies or maybe hot dogs and make a stop at Wood Ranch and spend time together. Great for friend get together, too. There are two pavilions at Wood Ranch, but they require reservations. You can get the latest information by checking out the Fall Color Report.