The best running trails around Cedar City
133
runners
24
runs
If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Cedar City, you know how quickly the sheer number of trails can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in: our komoot community has mapped, run, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. We're here to save you the guesswork.
Jogging around Cedar City means embracing a landscape defined by dramatic red rock formations and extensive trail systems, offering everything from easy paved paths to more strenuous climbs. You'll find a blend of accessible urban routes and challenging trails through natural areas, often with views of canyons and distant mountains. While the region offers year-round opportunities, the spring and fall seasons often provide the most comfortable temperatures for exploring.
If you only do one route, we'd start with the Coal Creek Trail loop from Exit 59 Skateboard Park. At 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with 262 feet (80 m) of elevation gain, it's a fantastic moderate option that follows the creek through shaded areas and open spaces – perfect for a scenic, accessible run. For something a bit more challenging with great views, the Red Hollow Trail – Coal Creek Trail loop from Cedar City is a solid choice at 7.0 miles (11.3 km) with 693 feet (211 m) of climbing, offering an uphill reward with canyon vistas. With more than 100 runners already exploring Cedar City's varied terrain on komoot, you're in good company.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
15
runners
12.5km
01:18
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
5.67km
00:36
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
runners
8.51km
00:55
150m
150m
The Lichen It Trail loop from Cedar Highlands offers a delightful jogging experience through a landscape of juniper and pinyon pine, characterized by its smooth red dirt and distinctive lichen-covered boulders. While high-voltage views are not frequent, you'll enjoy glimpses of the Cedar City area as you navigate the undulating terrain. This route provides a pleasant, engaging journey for those seeking a moderate workout.
Planning your visit to the Lichen It Trail is straightforward, as it's easily accessible from a new subdivision with a paved pathway connecting it to Cedar City. The trailhead is convenient, and parking is generally available. This trail is a great option for a morning or evening jog, especially if you're looking for a well-maintained path without the need for extensive logistical planning.
This 5.3-mile (8.5 km) loop, with its 491 feet (150 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes about 54 minutes to jog. It's a key gateway into the larger Iron Hills trail system, making it an excellent starting point for exploring more challenging routes like Green Hollow. Its smooth, forgiving terrain and gentle climbing rate make it particularly beginner-friendly for joggers and hikers.
6
runners
11.3km
01:20
210m
210m
The Red Hollow Trail – Coal Creek Trail loop in Cedar City offers a compelling blend of rugged trail running and smooth, paved paths, perfect for a varied jogging experience. You'll tackle a challenging singletrack climb on the Red Hollow Trail, navigating red dirt and rocky sections while enjoying scenic views of a prominent red hill and a beautiful red rock canyon. The route then transitions to the easy, paved Coal Creek Trail, which follows the creek past serene parks and human-made waterfalls, providing a gentle finish to this 7.0-mile (11.3 km) loop with 693 feet (211 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 19 minutes at a moderate pace.
When planning your visit, consider starting early, especially during summer, as the Red Hollow Trail's south-facing canyon can become very warm in the afternoon. This multi-use trail is popular with mountain bikers and hikers, so be prepared to share the path. The Coal Creek Trail is highly accessible and suitable for a wide range of users, making it a great option for a relaxed cool-down. While specific parking information isn't detailed, both sections are well-known within Cedar City for their accessibility.
This loop is a fantastic way to experience the diverse landscapes around Cedar City, combining the natural beauty of the Thunderbird Canyons Trail System with the urban convenience of the Coal Creek corridor. The Red Hollow Trail connects to other trails like Thor's Hideout, offering options for extending your run if you're feeling adventurous. The contrast between the challenging, natural surface of Red Hollow and the easy, paved Coal Creek Trail makes for a dynamic workout and a memorable outing.
7
runners
10.7km
01:08
150m
150m
If you're after a versatile jogging route with varied scenery, the East Bench Trail loop from Exit 59 Skateboard Park delivers. This moderate 6.6-mile (10.7 km) loop, with 479 feet (146 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to jog, offering picturesque views of colorful cliffs, mountains, and canyons as it winds around Cedar City. While mostly paved, you'll encounter some steeper sections and occasional natural dirt paths, providing a dynamic experience.
To plan your visit, start your journey from the Exit 59 Skateboard Park, which provides easy access to the trail network. The East Bench Trail's paved surface makes it an excellent choice for jogging in any season, including winter when many other trails are impassable. You'll find benches along the way, perfect for a quick break or to simply enjoy the surrounding vistas.
This trail is a key part of Cedar City's extensive multi-use trail system, connecting seamlessly to other paths like the Coal Creek Trail and the South View Trail Head. Its accessibility and mix of urban and natural views make it a standout option for those seeking a convenient yet rewarding outdoor experience, whether you're a beginner or looking for a consistent jogging spot.
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Other adventures around Cedar City
Tips from the Community
Coal Creek Trail is a paved path that runs alongside the river and passes by Veterans Park, connecting with the park and other trails in the area. The park serves as a memorial to those who fought in various wars, with dedicated sections, including one honoring the 240 Korean soldiers who won a battle against a much larger army without any casualties.
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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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Great view from Bicentennial Park of the mountains in the distance. The park also has a pavilion and restrooms.
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Lichen It Trail is a well-maintained trail that is partially shaded, going between forests. The trail has a lot of switchbacks that make the way up more gradual and smooth. It’s a nice path to appreciate the beauty of the flora and fauna.
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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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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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Consistently ranked high on lists of the best colleges for outdoor enthusiasts, it's near stunning natural wonders like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Cedar Breaks National Monument. The SUU campus is situated in a picturesque location with views of the Cedar Mountains. The campus itself is well-maintained and features a variety of trees, sculptures, and art installations.
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If you are riding in Cedar Mountains, this is the perfect spot for you to admire what you have just accomplished, or what you are about to embark on, depending on whether you get here at the start or the end of your ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Cedar City?
Komoot offers 22 diverse running routes around Cedar City, ranging from easy paved paths to more challenging trails with significant elevation gain. These routes cater to various fitness levels and preferences, allowing you to explore the city's natural beauty.
Are there easy running routes suitable for beginners or casual joggers in Cedar City?
Yes, Cedar City offers several easy and accessible running routes. The Coal Creek Trail loop from Exit 59 Skateboard Park is a popular 5.4-mile paved option that follows Coal Creek, perfect for a relaxed run. The Coal Creek Trail itself is known for its flat, multi-use path through shaded areas and open spaces.
What are some good running trails with scenic views in Cedar City?
For scenic views, consider routes that incorporate the Red Hollow Trail or the East Bench Trail. The Red Hollow Trail – Coal Creek Trail loop from Cedar City offers an uphill climb with rewarding views of the canyons and the city. The Iron Hills Trail System also provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
Are there any loop running trails in Cedar City?
Many of the running routes in Cedar City are designed as loops for convenience. For example, the East Bench Trail loop from Exit 59 Skateboard Park is a 6.6-mile circular route, and the Coal Creek Trail loop from Coal Creek offers a shorter 3.5-mile option.
Can I find family-friendly jogging paths in Cedar City?
Absolutely. The paved multi-use trails like the Coal Creek Trail are excellent for families. They offer a safe and relatively flat surface, making them suitable for all ages. The Coal Creek Trail is also a great spot for birdwatching, adding to the family experience.
Are there any dog-friendly running trails in the area?
Many trails in Cedar City, especially the multi-use paths, are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. The Coal Creek Trail is a popular choice for runners with dogs due to its accessibility and pleasant environment. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
What kind of natural attractions can I see while running in Cedar City?
Running in Cedar City offers glimpses of diverse natural beauty. You can experience red canyons, dramatic rock formations, and views of distant mountains. The Coal Creek Trail follows the creek through shaded areas, while the Red Hollow Trail provides views of the canyons and the city itself. The region is also a gateway to stunning national monuments like Cedar Breaks, offering unique geological formations.
Are there any running events or community activities in Cedar City?
Yes, the Coal Creek Trail hosts a free, weekly 5k community event called 'parkrun' every Saturday. This is a great opportunity to join local runners and experience the trail in a social setting.
What are the best seasons for running in Cedar City?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for running in Cedar City. Summer mornings and evenings are also popular, though higher elevations like those near Cedar Breaks National Monument can provide cooler temperatures during the day. Winter running is possible, but trails may be icy or snow-covered, especially at higher altitudes.
Where can I find parking for running trails in Cedar City?
Many trails in Cedar City have accessible parking. For instance, the Coal Creek Trail loop from Exit 59 Skateboard Park starts directly from a parking area. The Southview Trail also has a convenient trailhead behind the Holiday Inn Express on S Shurtz Canyon Drive, offering parking options.
Are there any longer running routes for experienced runners?
For experienced runners seeking longer distances, the region offers several options. The Red Canyon Bicycle Trail, though named for bikes, is a nearly 13-mile paved trail through scenic red canyons that can be used for a challenging long run. Additionally, combining sections of the Iron Hills Trail System can create extended routes with varied terrain.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Cedar City?
Runners often praise Cedar City for its diverse terrain and accessibility. The komoot community highlights the well-maintained trail systems, the blend of urban paths and natural landscapes, and the stunning views of red canyons and rock formations. The convenience of trails like the Coal Creek Trail within city limits is also frequently appreciated.
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