Introduction
Some people won’t understand why I have this title associated with Cedar City. Well, that’s because I’m from Oregon, I’ve literally never heard of Cedar City or SUU. *Gasp* I know I’m a monster, but It’s the truth. So I thought it was fitting for the title to be this because even though Cedar City or at least SUU is very much known It’s still weirdly hidden.
Foundation of Cedar City
Cedar City was first founded in 1851 as part of a Mormon Iron Mission. It was actually named Coal Creek at first, but it was renamed because of the amount of juniper trees which was mistakenly called cedars.
The Mormon Iron Mission was a significant endeavor in the Utah’s history, focused on establishing Iron Production in the Cedar City area. Led by Brigham Young when he called for volunteers to colonize the Iron Mission area, leading to the settlement near Coal Creek.
The drive for the Iron Mission was the need for Iron resources for building and other purposes in the Mormon settlements, because importing Iron from the eastern United States was expensive and difficult.
The Mission faced many challenges like financial issues, flooding, severe freezes and furnace failures. The original foundry closed in 1858; it laid the foundation for future Iron Works and contributed to the growth of Cedar City. It served its purpose even if it didn’t last the longest.
The Estimated population of Cedar City in 2025 is around 47,400. This is based on a 5-year projection following a period of significant growth according to Southern Utah University.
Cedar City Named Third ‘Fastest Growing College Town’ in America
Cedar City has experienced substantial growth, with a nearly 50% increase between 2000 and 2023 according to SUU.
What has really established Cedar City
- Ironworks Settlement, the discovery of iron ore.
- The railroads arrival in 1923 further boosted the tourism.
- Gateway to the Parks
- Southern Utah University
- Shakespeare Festival
Gateway to the National Parks
Cedar City provides easy access to some amazing national parks and monuments, the closeness to national parks like Zion, Bryce canyon and Cedar Breaks is why cedar is often referred to the “Gateway to the National Parks”.
- Zion National Park: is known for its stunning canyons and diverse landscapes. The park’s centerpiece is Zion Canyon, a deep, narrow canyon carved by the Virgin River, featuring towering sandstone cliffs, mesas, and natural arches. The park also encompasses high plateaus, desert areas, and diverse ecosystems, offering a wide range of recreational activities.
- Bryce Canyon National Park: is known for its unique geological formations called hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock columns that cluster together. These striking features, along with the park’s vibrant colors and high elevation, make it a visually stunning and geologically fascinating destination.
- Cedar Breaks National Monumnet: Cedar Breaks looks like a mini Bryce Canyon. The Native Americans called Cedar Breaks the “Circle of Painted Cliffs.” Millions of years of uplift and erosion have carved this huge amphitheater.
- Kolob Canyons: is known for its towering red rock formations, narrow canyons, and scenic drives. It offers a unique landscape with soaring peaks, canyon streams, and over 20 miles of hiking trails. The area is accessed by a five-mile scenic drive with numerous viewpoints, and it’s also a gateway to the Kolob Arch, one of the world’s largest natural arches.
Other recreational areas and hiking opportunities, include:
- Dixie National Forest: A vast forest offering hiking, fishing, and scenic drives.
- Kanarra Falls: A hike featuring slot canyons and waterfalls.
- Ashdown Gorge: A hike through rugged canyon terrain with views of cliffs and creeks.
- Brian Head Resort: A nearby resort offering summer activities like hiking and mountain biking.
Shakespeare Festival
Founded in 1961, the festival has grown from a small, temporary stage to a major theatrical institution and has been instrumental in establishing Utah as a state supportive of serious drama.
The Utah Shakespeare Festival is a professional theater company that focuses on producing the works of William Shakespeare and other playwrights. The festival is held annually from June through October on the campus of Southern Utah University.
