Millions of acres of red rock canyons, pine forests, and high desert terrain stretching across southern Utah.
Dixie National Forest covers nearly two million acres across southern Utah, making it the largest national forest in the state. It spans a dramatic range of terrain, from red rock canyon walls to dense pine and spruce forests at higher elevations. Wildlife is everywhere if you're paying attention: marmots, mule deer, pronghorn, and a serious variety of birds.
The stretch along Scenic Byway 12 is where most visitors get their first look, and it doesn't disappoint. Driving through Red Canyon feels like a preview of what's ahead at Bryce Canyon National Park, minus the crowds. The tunnel arches right over the road. It's one of those moments where you'll want to pull over and just stand there for a minute.
For hikers, the forest has trails ranging from short canyon walks to multi-day backcountry routes. Camping is available throughout, with both developed sites and dispersed options for those who want more solitude. The Red Canyon area has a paved bike path that's genuinely worth your time if you have a few hours to spare.
Dixie National Forest sits along the natural corridor between Cedar City and Bryce Canyon National Park, so you're passing through it whether you plan to or not. The smart move is to plan for it. Budget an extra hour, stop at Red Canyon, and let the scenery do the talking. Winter brings snow-covered pines and a completely different kind of quiet that's worth experiencing on its own terms.
Dixie National Forest spans nearly two million acres across southern Utah, making the range of terrain here genuinely striking. The landscape shifts from red rock canyon walls and eroded formations at lower elevations to dense pine and spruce forests as the land climbs higher — a contrast that plays out over miles as you move through the region. The forest is also productive wildlife habitat. The combination of canyon terrain, high-country forest, and open high desert makes Dixie National Forest one of the more ecologically varied federal lands in Utah.
Dixie National Forest is open year-round and sits along the natural travel corridor between Cedar City and Bryce Canyon National Park, putting it directly on the route most visitors are already driving. The Scenic Byway 12 corridor offers the most concentrated access to forest highlights, including Red Canyon, which makes an efficient stop with developed trailheads and parking. Hiking options range from short canyon walks to multi-day backcountry routes, with both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping available for those who want to stay. Summer brings the widest range of trail access, while winter closes some higher-elevation routes and transforms the forest with snow-covered pines — conditions that draw a different kind of visitor looking for quiet and solitude.
5,423 reviews
a year ago
Simply stunning scenery before heading into Bryce Canyon. The true beauty here in Dixie National Forest/Red Canyon can only be experienced in person. What a joy to drive on Scenic Byway 12 through this amazing forest and canyon. Words cannot do it justice. It is a must see!
8 months ago
This is a beautiful place to explore on the way to Bryce Canyon. The road going thru the nature arch was amazing.
6 years ago
This place is wonderful especially when it has snow. We went through the Dixie national Forest on the way to big basin national park. We have fun taking pictures of the snow and trees. It a great place to visit when there is snow and when there isn't any snow. We saw a couple of marmots while driving through the forest in the snow.
11 months ago
Nice spot along the scenic byway 12. Stopped here for a short little rest and to take some photos. Absolutely beautiful spot just outside of Bryce Canyon National Park.
4 years ago
Breathtaking is the only word to describe it. I definitely recommend the visit. It's not a very long drive through it and not alot of pictures points. What I do suggest is cycling alongside on the cycle path or taking a walk. There is also a camp/RV site for those that are interested. Please don't skip this.