The Utah Geological Survey (UGS) has announced the publication of two comprehensive geologic-hazard investigations targeting high-growth and high-visitation areas in southwestern Utah. The studies provide new information for Bryce Canyon National Park and Cedar Valley in Iron County, identifying risks ranging from rockfalls and radon gas to costly infrastructure threats like collapsible soils and earth fissures.
"Southwestern Utah is an extraordinary place to live and visit thanks to the active geology that sculpted its stunning, yet precarious, landscapes," states report author Tyler Knudsen. "Identifying where these processes occur allows us to proactively manage risks to life and property, ensuring these iconic areas remain safe for residents and visitors alike."
As Bryce Canyon National Park attracts nearly 2 million visitors annually, the UGS conducted a 265-square-mile investigation centered on the park and the communities of Tropic and Bryce Canyon City. The study highlights that the same erosional processes that sculpted the "Pink Cliffs"—the park's world-famous collection of hoodoos, spires, and slot canyons—remain active today. While rockfall is a risk along the popular Navajo Loop and other 'under-the-rim' trails, it can be mitigated by visitor behavior. The UGS advises hikers to remain observant and avoid stopping for long periods under precarious rock formations. The study also brings to light significant new data regarding the Paunsaugunt fault, which runs through the study area. New mapping confirms that the fault has displaced geologically young deposits within the last 2.6 million years. This discovery classifies the fault as "hazardous," and the study's results were used to update the statewide hazardous-fault database.
In eastern Iron County, Cedar Valley has seen substantial population growth since the 1990s. As development expands into less stable terrain, the new UGS study covering the Cedar City, Enoch, and Kanarraville area serves as a vital tool for planners and engineers. Collapsible soils and flooding have historically been the costliest hazards in the valley. Additionally, earth fissures (ground cracks) caused by groundwater-level declines are a growing concern, specifically impacting new developments in Enoch City. The study emphasizes that geologically sourced radon gas—an invisible, natural hazard—is locally prevalent in the area, making indoor testing advisable for residents.
Both studies are now available to the public, local administrators, and geotechnical consultants. The findings are integrated into the Utah Geologic Hazards Portal, an interactive map designed to help residents and developers understand the specific risks associated with their location.
View the Hazards Portal:https://maps.geology.utah.gov/hazards
Read the Bryce Canyon Study: https://geology.utah.gov/publication-details/?pub=ss-178
Read the Cedar Valley Study: https://geology.utah.gov/publication-details/?pub=ss-177
About the Utah Geological Survey: The UGS provides timely scientific information about Utah's geologic environment, resources, and hazards to promote safe development and conservation throughout the state.