Cedar City to Panguitch: Red Rock Secrets on UT-14

UT-14 is one of Utah's most underrated scenic byways, connecting Cedar City (elevation 5,840 ft) to Panguitch (elevation 6,700 ft) over 40 miles through the Markagunt Plateau. Completed in 1915, it was originally a wagon route for Mormon settlers moving east. The road climbs 1,800 feet through Cedar Canyon, offering views of red rock cliffs, volcanic cinder cones, and pine forests. how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities can help you plan unexpected detours.

The road climbs through Cedar Canyon, known for its hoodoo formations and fossil beds. At the summit, Navajo Lake (natural sinkhole lake) offers fishing and hiking. Nearby Cascade Falls trail leads to a 60-foot waterfall.

• Navajo Lake: Rent a kayak at the lodge (seasonal). Blue-ribbon trout fishery.
• Duck Creek Village: Small mountain community with gift shops, a general store, and the historic Dutton Hotel (1913).
• Mammoth Cave: A lava tube less than 2 miles off UT-14, free entry with flashlights.

UNESCO Connection

While not a UNESCO site itself, the route borders Dixie National Forest, which is part of the larger Colorado Plateau province that includes several World Heritage Sites (e.g., Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde). The geology here echoes those formations.

Climate and Seasonal Aesthetics

Summer highs 80-85°F, evening lows 50°F. Fall colors peak late September. Winter brings snow; UT-14 can close for days. Spring wildflowers (May) include Indian paintbrush and lupine.

Curves and wildlife (deer, elk) are primary hazards. Speed limit: 55 mph but many turns require 25 mph. Things to do between Cedar City, UT and Panguitch, UT include short hikes and scenic pullouts.

• Safety: Use low beams in fog; watch for livestock. No lighting beyond Cedar City limits.
• Family stops: Cedar Canyon Nature Trail (easy 1-mile loop). Duck Creek Village offers a playground and ice cream shop.
• Pet-friendly: Dogs allowed on all trails (on leash). Navajo Lake Lodge has pet-friendly cabins.

Rest Zones and Hidden Off-Route Spots

Pullouts at mile 5 (red rock viewpoint), mile 15 (Navajo Lake Overlook). Hidden: Strawberry Point (off-road trail end) offers panoramic views of Zion in distance. Fatigue management: Stop every 20 minutes. Panguitch has a historic downtown with a walking tour.

The route is fully paved two-lane highway, well-maintained year-round, but subject to snow closures in winter. No tolls. Best stops Cedar City, UT to Panguitch, UT include Navajo Lake Overlook and Duck Creek Village.

• Fuel: Cedar City has numerous stations. Next fuel available in Panguitch via US-89; Duck Creek Village has a single station (limited hours).
• Restrooms: Multiple pullouts with vault toilets; restrooms at Duck Creek Village market and Navajo Lake Lodge.
• Cell Service: Strong in Cedar City, fades near mile 10, returns near Duck Creek Village.

Route Economics

Cost for a typical sedan: approximately $4.50 in fuel (25 mpg, $3.30/gal). The drive is shorter than taking I-15 to SR-20 (55 miles, 1 hour) but offers far superior scenery.