Cedar Breaks National Monument
4.8(2.7K)google
4.8(80)yelp
CanyonGeologyRock FormationHikingScenic LookoutStargazingNational MonumentPhoto Spot
Overview
Perched at an breathtaking elevation of over 10,000 feet, this colossal natural amphitheater plunges over 2,000 feet deep into the Markagunt Plateau. The monumental rock bowl is filled with intricate stone spires, jagged ridges, and columns sculpted from brilliant iron and manganese minerals, offering panoramic overlooks, alpine wildflower meadows in summer, and pristine snowshoeing adventures during winters.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration2-4 hours
Best TimeStrictly open from June to September due to its massive alpine elevation (Note: The high-altitude scenic roads close entirely under multi-feet snowpacks from October to late May). Schedule your visit for the late afternoon between 3:30 PM and sunset at Point Supreme; the low sun cuts straight into the multi-tier amphitheater gorge, splashing the pink shales with magnificent, burning shades.
Getting TherePerched atop the mountain ranges east of Cedar City. Accessible strictly by car via high-alpine scenic routes: take I-15 to Exit 75 at Cedar City, follow UT-14 E east for 18 miles, and turn left onto UT-143 N climbing straight up the pass. High-capacity free paved trailhead parking fields border all canyon rims.
Travel Tips
- Extended Winter Road Closures: Sitting at 10,000+ feet, the main access highway (SR-148) completely closes to vehicles from mid-November through late May; access is snowmobile/ski only.
- Afternoon Lightning Hazard: Summer afternoons frequently bring severe lightning strikes along the exposed, high-altitude amphitheater rim; retreat to your hard-topped vehicle immediately at the first rumble.
- Severe Cold Wind Chill: Temperatures here run 15–20°F colder than Cedar City valleys; even during mid-summer July nights, freezing drafts require windbreakers and thermal fleeces.
Reviews
Positive
- Like a miniature Bryce Canyon but higher; the massive amphitheater and red cliffs deliver intense visual impact, well worth the price.
- Sitting above 10,000 feet, it is perfectly cool in summer, packed with wild alpine flowers and a pristine peace unmatched by busier sites.
- Admission is just around $10 per person for high value. The newly built visitor center has flawless accessibility and spotless, ample restrooms.
- Rangers provide warm educational commentary and safety management at overlooks; clear signs allow global road-trippers to navigate smoothly.
Heads up
- Due to the extreme 10,000-foot altitude, access roads (Utah 148) are completely buried under heavy winter snow, restricting open seasons deeply.
- The air is very thin and trails lack shade; flatland tourists easily get acute altitude sickness or sunburn, while medical help is far away.
- Parking at the core overlooks is scarce; despite moderate tourist density, the Point Supreme lot faces chaotic parking scrambles at noon.
- The summit lacks any warm food options beyond gift shop snacks; the near-complete lack of dining makes warming up in bad weather difficult.