If you’re like me and crave peaceful escapes far from the hustle and bustle, Southern Utah offers some truly hidden treasures. Tucked away amidst red rock cliffs, vast deserts, and alpine forests, these secluded towns are perfect for anyone looking to slow down and soak in nature’s beauty.
I’ve discovered ten of these charming spots that offer solitude, stunning scenery, and a warm community spirit. Whether you’re planning a quiet getaway or considering a peaceful place to call home, these towns might just steal your heart. Join me as I count down my top ten secluded towns in Southern Utah.
10. Rockville: Peaceful Living Near the Red Rock Cliffs
Rockville, with a population of just over 250 residents, is a quaint town that offers a serene escape nestled near towering red rock cliffs. I love strolling through its quiet streets lined with historic buildings, and the proximity to Zion National Park provides endless opportunities for hiking and photography.
The town doesn’t have much in the way of industry, which adds to its tranquil charm; most locals are involved in tourism or commute to nearby towns for work. What makes Rockville truly secluded is its small size and the sense of being tucked away amidst breathtaking natural formations.
One of my favorite hidden gems here is the ghost town of Grafton, a short drive away, which offers a glimpse into the area’s pioneer history without the crowds.
Where is Rockville?
Rockville is located in Washington County, just southwest of Springdale and the entrance to Zion National Park. Its seclusion comes from being off the beaten path, away from major highways, and surrounded by expansive public lands.
To get there, I usually take State Route 9 from Hurricane, enjoying the scenic drive through canyons and valleys. The town’s remote setting, framed by the majestic red cliffs, makes it feel like a peaceful oasis far from bustling tourist spots.
9. Duck Creek Village: Woodland Seclusion in Dixie Forest
Duck Creek Village, home to approximately 200 people, is a charming mountain town nestled among the pines of the Dixie National Forest. I’ve found it to be a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like fishing, ATV trails, and exploring nearby caves.
The local economy revolves around tourism, with quaint lodges and cabins offering a rustic retreat. Its secluded nature is due to its elevation and dense forest surroundings, giving you a sense of being enveloped by nature. One hidden gem I adore is Aspen Mirror Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for reflection and a quiet picnic.
Where is Duck Creek Village?
Situated along Highway 14 in Kane County, Duck Creek Village lies between Cedar City and Highway 89. Its seclusion is heightened by the winding mountain roads and thick forests that shield it from the outside world.
I usually reach it by taking the scenic route from Cedar City, which climbs in elevation and offers stunning overlooks. The journey itself contributes to the feeling of escaping into a woodland haven, far from urban life’s noise and pace.
8. Brian Head: Alpine Seclusion in Utah’s Highest Town
Brian Head, with a small population of around 100 residents, is Utah’s highest-elevation town, sitting at nearly 10,000 feet.
I’ve enjoyed its alpine seclusion, especially during the winter when the Brian Head Resort offers skiing and snowboarding without the massive crowds. In the summer, the mountain trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
The main industry here revolves around tourism, specifically the ski resort and associated hospitality services. Its secluded feel comes from its high elevation and surrounding forests, which provide a crisp, clean atmosphere that feels worlds away from the valleys below.
Where is Brian Head?
Brian Head is located in Iron County, northeast of Cedar City, accessible via Highway 143. Its remote mountain location contributes to its seclusion, with snow often limiting access during winter storms.
I usually drive up from Parowan, winding through scenic roads that ascend steeply into the mountains. The journey highlights the town’s isolation, as you leave the desert landscapes behind and enter a high-altitude alpine environment.
7. Glendale: A Sleepy Hamlet Among Southern Utah’s Hills
Glendale is a small community of about 400 people that exudes a peaceful, small-town vibe. I appreciate its central location for exploring nearby national parks while still enjoying quiet evenings away from tourist hubs.
The town offers quaint antique shops and local eateries that give you a taste of rural life. Agriculture is a primary industry here, with ranching and farming shaping the local economy. Its seclusion stems from its position along the lesser-traveled stretches of Highway 89, nestled among rolling hills and open spaces.
Where is Glendale?
Located in Kane County between Orderville and Mount Carmel Junction, Glendale sits along Highway 89 but doesn’t see the heavy traffic of more prominent destinations.
I find that reaching it involves a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes that signal a departure from crowded areas. Its setting among Southern Utah’s hills adds to the feeling of seclusion, making it a quiet retreat ideal for relaxation.
6. Big Water: Solitude Amidst Desert Wonders
Big Water is a tiny town with a population of around 500, offering solitude amid Utah’s striking desert landscapes. I’ve been drawn to its proximity to Lake Powell and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, making it a gateway to countless outdoor adventures.
The town itself is quiet, with few businesses, reflecting its laid-back lifestyle. Construction and uranium mining have been part of its history, but today, tourism and services related to nearby attractions are primary industries.
Big Water’s seclusion comes from its expansive surroundings—vast deserts, towering rock formations, and the star-filled night sky that makes you feel wonderfully small.
Where is Big Water?
Big Water is situated in Kane County near the Arizona border, accessible via Highway 89. Its isolation is enhanced by the stretches of open road and sparse development in the area.
When I drive there from Page, Arizona, the journey through the desert emphasizes the town’s remote character. The quiet roads and wide-open spaces make it a perfect spot for those seeking an escape into nature’s grandeur.
5. Cannonville: Hidden Tranquility Beneath Grand Staircase
Cannonville, housing around 170 residents, is a peaceful town nestled beneath the majestic cliffs of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. I find it to be a perfect base for exploring the area’s slot canyons and breathtaking landscapes without the usual crowds.
The local economy is modest, with some residents involved in ranching and others in tourism-related services. Its secluded feel is due in part to its minimal size and the enveloping natural beauty that surrounds it.
One of my favorite lesser-known spots here is Willis Creek Slot Canyon, a quiet hike that offers stunning views and solitude.
Where is Cannonville?
Cannonville is located in Garfield County along Scenic Byway 12, east of Bryce Canyon National Park. Its remote location and small size contribute to its seclusion, as it’s often overshadowed by nearby attractions.
I usually reach it by driving through the scenic landscapes from Tropic, enjoying the changing vistas along the way. The town’s position amidst vast public lands makes it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers like me.
4. Alton: Secluded Mountain Living with Panoramic Vistas
Alton is a tiny town with a population of about 120, offering a tranquil rural lifestyle high in the mountains. I appreciate its panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and its quiet, close-knit community.
The main industries here revolve around ranching and agriculture, reflecting a simple way of life connected to the land. Alton’s seclusion comes from its elevation and distance from major roads, providing a sense of peace that’s hard to find elsewhere.
A hidden gem I’ve discovered is the nearby Alton Amphitheater, a natural formation offering stunning vistas and a perfect spot for quiet contemplation.
Where is Alton?
Situated in Kane County off U.S. Highway 89, Alton is nestled between Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Its remote location is accentuated by the winding roads and mountainous terrain leading to it.
I usually access it via a scenic detour from the main highway, which adds to the feeling of stepping away from the world. The town’s elevation and the surrounding landscapes make it feel secluded, offering a true escape into nature.
3. Tropic: Serenity at the Foot of Bryce Canyon
Tropic, with a population of around 500, sits just outside Bryce Canyon National Park, yet maintains a serene atmosphere that’s a world apart from busy tourist areas. I’ve enjoyed its charming Main Street, local eateries, and the friendly vibe that makes visitors feel right at home.
Agriculture, particularly ranching and farming, is a key industry here, grounding the town in its rural roots. What makes Tropic secluded is its small size and location away from the main park entrances, allowing for quiet nights under the stars.
A local secret I adore is the Tropic Trail, which provides less-crowded access into Bryce Canyon, offering stunning views without the hustle.
Where is Tropic?
Located in Garfield County along Scenic Byway 12, Tropic lies east of Bryce Canyon’s main entrances. Its position on the quieter side of the park contributes to its seclusion.
I usually get there by taking the scenic route from Panguitch, enjoying the rolling landscapes and minimal traffic. Tropic’s proximity to natural wonders, coupled with its peaceful setting, makes it a perfect spot for a tranquil retreat.
2. Orderville: A Peaceful Oasis Between National Parks
Orderville is a small town of about 600 residents that offers a peaceful oasis between Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. I appreciate its rich pioneer history and the quiet streets lined with historic buildings.
Local artisans and small businesses contribute to the economy, providing unique shopping experiences. The town’s secluded nature comes from its off-the-beaten-path location and the surrounding natural beauty that often gets overlooked by travelers rushing between the parks.
A hidden gem here is the Red Hollow Slot Canyon, a short and accessible hike that’s perfect for a quiet afternoon adventure.
Where is Orderville?
Situated in Kane County along U.S. Highway 89, Orderville sits comfortably between Zion and Bryce Canyon. Its seclusion is due to its location away from major tourist routes, offering a quieter alternative to busier destinations.
I usually reach it by driving north from Kanab, enjoying the expansive views along the highway. The town’s position amid lesser-known natural attractions makes it a delightful spot for those seeking solitude and simplicity.
1. Boulder: The Quiet Heart of the Escalante Wilderness
Boulder, with a population of just over 200, is one of the most remote towns in the United States, and it’s my favorite secluded spot in Southern Utah. Nestled amidst rugged red cliffs and vast wilderness, it offers unmatched tranquility and access to the stunning landscapes of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Agriculture and tourism are primary industries, but on a modest scale that preserves the town’s peaceful atmosphere. What makes Boulder truly secluded is its isolation from urban centers and the surrounding wilderness that envelops it.
One of the hidden gems I treasure here is the Burr Trail, a scenic backroad that winds through canyons and offers breathtaking views at every turn.
Where is Boulder?
Boulder is located in Garfield County along Scenic Byway 12, one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever taken. Its seclusion is heightened by its distance from major cities and the remote stretches of road leading to it.
Getting there involves navigating winding roads through the Dixie National Forest and across high mountain passes. The journey itself reinforces the town’s remoteness, making Boulder a true escape into the heart of Utah’s wilderness.
