13th Hole Trailhead

The 13th Hole Trail Loop offers a delightful journey through Cedar City's iconic red rock landscape, winding past juniper and pinion pine trees. You'll traverse a mix of narrow singletrack and broader paths, with the southern side of the loop providing particularly engaging terrain and excellent views of the red hills and Cedar City itself. The geological features, including clay and rock dating back to the Jurassic Period, add a unique touch to the scenery.

This easy hiking route is conveniently located just minutes off the freeway, making it highly accessible. The trailhead provides paved parking, bathrooms, and water facilities. Dogs are welcome on the trail, and many hikers recommend tackling the 2.9-mile (4.6 km) loop in a counter-clockwise direction to best appreciate the views. Expect to complete the 279 feet (85 metres) of elevation gain in about 1 hour and 17 minutes, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions after rain.

Part of the extensive Thunderbird Gardens Trail System, this trail is a multi-use path popular for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. Its accessibility and moderate challenge make it an ideal choice for experienced beginners or anyone looking for a quick, scenic escape into the distinctive Utah red rock country. The trail starts at around 5800 feet and climbs to just over 6100 feet, offering a gentle but rewarding ascent.