UT-14 Scenic Byway Cedar Canyon
A breathtaking mountain drive through Cedar Canyon, offering stunning vistas and a unique stop at an old gypsum quarry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer cars
UT-14 Scenic Byway Cedar Canyon
Best Time
Golden light, fewer cars
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking mountain drive through Cedar Canyon, offering stunning vistas and a unique stop at an old gypsum quarry.
"Beautiful views of the canyon and valley, a very nice road."
📸 Best Photo Light
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning golden hour light on the canyon walls.
🚗 Check Road Conditions
Mountain roads can be unpredictable. Always check local advisories before your drive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cedar Canyon Views
Breathtaking vistas of the canyon walls and surrounding valleys. Perfect for a leisurely drive and photo stops.
Old Gypsum Quarry
Off UT-14
Explore the remnants of an old quarry, offering a unique historical and geological point of interest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Scenic Drive
Road Conditions & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Light
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning golden hour light on the canyon walls.
🚗 Check Road Conditions
Mountain roads can be unpredictable. Always check local advisories before your drive.
SLC to Cedar City drive in a day: Any reccomendations?
Must Visit Spots Around Cedar City/Brian Head for Tourists?
🥾 Explore the Quarry
Don't miss the old gypsum quarry for a unique hiking and photo opportunity.
Scenic drive recommendations
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Light
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning golden hour light on the canyon walls.
🚗 Check Road Conditions
Mountain roads can be unpredictable. Always check local advisories before your drive.
🥾 Explore the Quarry
Don't miss the old gypsum quarry for a unique hiking and photo opportunity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the UT-14 Scenic Byway for its beautiful canyon views and the unique exploration opportunities at the old gypsum quarry. The drive is considered a highlight for its scenic vistas and engaging mountain road. Some note the limited services and the need for careful driving on winding sections.
"Hiked up the old gypsum quarry"
Ben Imlay
"A very nice road. Beautiful views of the canyon and valley."
Phantom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Salt Lake City, take I-15 South towards Cedar City. UT-14 is accessible from Cedar City, connecting to I-15. The drive offers beautiful scenery as you approach the canyon.
UT-14 is a scenic mountain road with winding sections and elevation changes. It's generally well-maintained but requires attentive driving, especially in adverse weather.
Yes, a regular car is suitable for driving the UT-14 Scenic Byway. No special vehicle is required, but ensure your tires are in good condition.
Services are limited along the byway itself. It's advisable to fill up your gas tank and use restrooms in Cedar City before starting your drive.
Speed limits vary along the byway, but generally range from 35-55 mph. Always adhere to posted signs for safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, UT-14 Scenic Byway is a public road and does not have an entrance fee. You can drive and stop at viewpoints freely.
UT-14 is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it may be temporarily closed due to weather conditions like snow or rockslides.
For general exploration and short hikes near the road, no permit is typically required. However, for specific backcountry activities or camping, check with the local Forest Service.
There are no booking requirements to drive or visit the viewpoints along UT-14. It's an open scenic route.
The old gypsum quarry is accessible from pull-offs along UT-14 and does not require a ticket for general exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
Numerous pull-offs offer stunning canyon views. The old gypsum quarry also provides unique photographic opportunities. Look for overlooks with expansive vistas.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting and colors for canyon photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots.
Drone usage is subject to federal and local regulations. Check with the Dixie National Forest for specific rules regarding drone operation in the area.
Yes, the old gypsum quarry is a popular spot for photography. Be mindful of unstable terrain and wear appropriate footwear.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the drive a part of a larger trip to Cedar City, which offers more family-friendly attractions. The byway is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, allowing children to take in the views and ask questions about the landscape. It’s a great way to introduce younger travelers to the grandeur of Utah's canyons and mountains.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Plan for ample time to stop at the various pull-offs. The old gypsum quarry adds an element of exploration beyond just the scenic drive. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and consider downloading offline maps as cell service can be spotty. This byway is a highlight for anyone appreciating the journey as much as the destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving the UT-14 Scenic Byway
Travelers often highlight the dramatic elevation changes and the winding nature of the road, which add to the adventurous feel of the drive. While generally well-maintained, it's important to be aware of potential seasonal challenges, such as snow and ice in winter, or occasional rockslides. Checking local road conditions before embarking is always a wise precaution. The byway is particularly popular during the warmer months when hiking and exploring are at their peak.
Beyond the drive itself, UT-14 serves as a gateway to various activities. The old gypsum quarry is a frequently mentioned point of interest, offering a unique glimpse into the area's industrial past and a chance for exploration. This byway is more than just a route; it's an experience that immerses you in the rugged beauty of Utah.
Exploring the Old Gypsum Quarry
When visiting the quarry, it's important to exercise caution. The terrain can be uneven and potentially unstable in places. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended, and it's advisable to stick to marked paths or areas that appear safe. The visual appeal of the quarry, with its layered rock and open spaces, makes it a memorable detour for many travelers.
Many visitors find the quarry to be a surprisingly engaging stop, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. It’s a place where you can appreciate the earth’s layers and the human efforts to extract its resources. Remember to leave no trace and respect the natural environment.
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