The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Draper, Utah to Cedar City, Utah

Draper, Utah, a suburban gem nestled against the Wasatch Range, serves as an excellent starting point for a scenic road trip to Cedar City. This journey spans approximately 250 miles through remarkable landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect getaway for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends. Halfway along the route lies Fillmore, a small town rich in history, providing a picturesque and convenient stop to stretch your legs and soak in local culture.

Along the way, travelers will experience stunning vistas, unique attractions, and a chance to enjoy Utah’s vibrant natural beauty. Here are the top five recommended stops that make this road trip unforgettable.

1. Antelope Island State Park

One of Utah's hidden gems, Antelope Island State Park, offers breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the park via well-maintained hiking and biking trails, providing incredible opportunities for wildlife watching, particularly the American bison that roam freely. Photographers appreciate the stunning sunsets, which paint the sky with vibrant colors reflected on the lake’s surface.

Interesting fact: Antelope Island is home to the largest population of American bison in the state, allowing visitors a rare glimpse of these majestic animals in their natural habitat.

2. Great Salt Lake

A short detour from the main route leads to the majestic Great Salt Lake, the largest saline lake in the Western Hemisphere. Known for its unique and beautiful vistas, the lake is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during migration seasons. Visitors can hike along the shore, take a boat out on the water, or simply enjoy a picnic with astonishing views of the surrounding mountains.

Interesting fact: The Great Salt Lake’s salinity is about ten times higher than that of most oceans, making it a challenging environment for most aquatic life, yet creating a perfect habitat for brine flies and shrimp that attract millions of migratory birds.

3. Fillmore Historic State Park

As the halfway point of the road trip, Fillmore Historic State Park emphasizes Utah’s rich history. Once the territorial capital, this small town features various historical structures, including the original Utah Territorial Statehouse, which dates back to the 1850s. Visitors can take guided tours and explore the museum showcasing artifacts from the pioneer era, providing insights into the early settlers’ lives.

Interesting fact: The Fillmore Territorial Statehouse was the first official government building constructed in Utah, reflecting the early challenges and aspirations of the pioneers seeking to establish a new life in the West.

4. Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge

Taking a brief detour from the main highway leads to Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge. Tucked away in the West Desert, this hidden sanctuary offers a unique ecosystem of wetlands amidst a stark desert landscape. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts flock to this refuge to observe various migratory birds, including American avocets and various species of ducks, along with other wildlife.

Interesting fact: Fish Springs is vital for the survival of many bird species in the Great Basin region, playing a significant role in the migratory bird route in North America.

5. Cedar Breaks National Monument

As the journey culminates, Cedar Breaks National Monument showcases stunning geological formations and vibrant wildflower displays during spring and summer. The monument’s elevation offers cooler temperatures and a perfect escape from the heat, making it an ideal spot for hikes. The Rim Road, which offers breathtaking overlooks, is a highlight, allowing visitors to peer into the vast amphitheater known for its colorful cliffs and monoliths.

Interesting fact: Cedar Breaks has an elevation of over 10,000 feet, creating a unique alpine ecosystem that includes a variety of plant and animal species not typically found in Utah’s lower elevations.

Traveling from Draper to Cedar City offers an incredible array of experiences filled with natural wonders, historical insights, and recreational activities. This roughly four-hour journey, with a halfway point at Fillmore, allows for numerous stops along the way, each brimming with its distinct charm and attractions. As travelers traverse the diverse landscape, they create lasting memories steeped in the beauty and history of Utah.