Cedar Breaks National Monument Reviews

We couldn’t make it to Bryce Canyon so I did some research to explore something more local. Cedar Breaks turned out to be a breathtaking treasure with the trees turning color. The ride up was filled with stunning scenic mountains and valleys. The canyon amphitheater made the trip more than worth it. Pictures don’t do Cedar Breaks Justice. A beautiful place to visit in southern Utah.

Stopped by the Cedar Breaks Monument while enjoying a weekend getaway in Brian Head. This National Park destination is only about a five mile drive past Brian Head, right off highway 143. We went at sunset with our young children and the views were amazing. Great spot for a family photo. Expect to see a combo of red rock formations and forest. Visited here in the early fall, not sure what it would be like the winter. It was chilly, which was why I only gave it four stars. Take a jacket.

At the end of a long vacation full of historic points of interest and museums, we were stopping in Cedar City for the night anyway so decided to go to Cedar Breaks NM. We were SO glad we did! First, the drive up UT-14 from Cedar City is scenic in its own right, and there are plenty of pull-outs for photographs and just taking in the fresh, cooler air. If you are into camping, there were a couple of campgrounds along that route, including at least one national forest type CG. Cedar Breaks is absolutely beautiful, a geological wonder and part of the 'grand staircase' that makes up the parks in northern AZ (Grand Canyon) and through Utah (Utah's mighty 5 and the San Rafael Swell, Goblin State Park, etc). The lovely thing is that it's not nearly as crowded as other parks, a hidden gem. We tried to take one hike, but there had been some recent rains which made the trails muddy and a bit slick, and we didn't have proper footwear with us. Definitely, if you love nature, great scenery, get to Cedar Breaks!

I was on my way home from a conference and decide to take a detour and see cedar beaks. I’m so glad I did. It was amazing!

This is a small park with amazing views! An easy, paved walk takes you to several lookouts to see the view--and it is pet-friendly! When we were there in July 2018, they gave us a handout listing all the wildflowers in the park (with photos) so you could identify them! There were wildflowers everywhere! We saw a chipmunk, too which was cute!

Worth the extra minutes to
see Cedar Breaks and also visit Panguitch Lake. Quiet, stunning views, wild flowers...great day trip!

Just wow views. The long drive is worth the stunning amphitheater! Unfortunately the iconic visitor center and nearby bathrooms were closed for the season. But the outlook points offered great views and you were able to take in the sights in quiet solitude. As you drive through Dixie National Forest there are some lava flows that can be explored off road that are super cool too!

I drove here last week from St. George in the morning. The drive was great because you can see all the leaves on trees that changed colors, some yellow and some red. It was very cold too, due to the high elevation (10,000 ft). I stopped by Sunset Overlook and Point Supreme. Awesome views of the amphitheater of hoodoos down below.

Definitely worth the trip, especially if you plan to visit the neighboring Bryce Canyon NP along the way.

This Monument is well worth the drive to see. The Breaks are colorful, and amazing. There are hiking trails and road to drive. You can pull over and park and see from different angles.

You must see this if you’re in the area. One of the most beautiful and awesome areas I’ve ever seen. Great views from pull-offs.

On our way home from a trip to Southern Utah, we stopped off at Cedar Breaks National Monument. We had been there before—once in a very windy snowstorm, and another time in a summer downpour—and decided to give it a “Three times a charm” attempt. It was beautiful! The whole area is 10,000 ft in altitude and more, and I am affected some by altitude. I found that even wearing a mask in the public areas (Coronavirus), I wasn’t as breathless as sometimes is the case.We didn't do any hiking, but visited each of the beautiful and well-cared for viewpoints. From each of the viewpoints, the views are breathtaking, with predominantly red and white rock formations, contrasting with the lovely evergreen trees. Besides these sweeping vistas, there are wildflower exhibits and gardens, and nature trails to view. We also saw birds and small wild animals. There is a ranger station and book store for more information about the area, geology, hiking, and other items of interest.

Easily one of the most scenic National Monuments in the national park system. Not as crowded as the two National Parks in the area, Bryce Canyon and Zion. During our visit, we hiked the Spectra Point Trail. Fantastic views, enjoyed hiking among the Bristle Cone pines.

Beautiful hike along the rim to Spectra and Ramparts outlooks. Our group of 5 over-age-60 women completed the hike in about 3.5 hours - with plenty of time to take pictures, eat lunch and catch our breath. Spectacular!

A breathtaking byway, Cedar breaks offers majestic scenery mixed with spectacular surroundings. Take the twisting scenic drive into the canyons above cedar city and enjoy the fresh air, wildflowers, fall coulours, and cooler temperatures. Always a must stop attraction on my journey. One can park and with just a short walk, view the canyon from several vista points atop the canyon rim.

We stopped here as a side trip on our way to Bryce Canyon. WOW! So worth it! Don’t miss it, it truly is a spectacle! I had no idea what to expect but, it was breathtaking.

The rock formations of Cedar Breaks are nearly as beautiful as those of Bryce Canyon, but most of the park is preserved as wilderness, so the casual visitor has only the short scenic road along the top of the cliffs and a handful of viewpoints to investigate. There are a couple of trails that connect the viewpoints, but we didn't try any of them.

Cedar Breaks is a quiet, and spectacular hidden gem in the national park system. A mini Bryce Canyon, easilly accessible from I-15, and not crowded at all. Some nice trails to hike, lovely little visitor center with spectacular views, and multiple view points and turn offs to take in this unique landscape. Monument is at over 10K feet altitude, so be prepared. Was quite windy and cool (58 F) when we were there. Very windy at the northern view point. Highly recommend.

Still a great experience at 10,000 feet. I have traveled through here several times a month most summer seasons. Generally make a stop for a short hike or just gazing at the incredible scenery. There are several rim trails to choose from in addition to the Rattlesnake Creek trail which is just outside the north boundary. this trail generally involves a car pool system since it will wind you down through the Ashdown Wilderness all the way to Hwy 14 about 9 miles later. But for a short stroll through lovely mountain forest and meadow, head west from the trailhead for about a mile. Follow the fencing to an unprotected overlook. You can stroll back from here. if you want to follow the trail down hill continue back to your right. Note that the trail is not regularly maintained and at times fallen trees with block your way. Most are easy to negotiate over or around. Cedar Breaks remains open this season but renovation to the main visitor area will occur for the next year. Some facilities, even toilets, will be closed. So i only give it 4 stars this time. But this trail and most others will remain open. If the entry road is closed at the 143 or the 14, then the park will be temporarily closed.

We came to Cedar Breaks National Monument, about 18-miles east of Cedar City, Utah on State Highway 14. Turn onto SR148 to enter the park. It was first thing in the morning and we got to the Point Supreme Overlook before the Park Rangers did. It is the lowest viewpoint of the four inside the monument, but it's still well over 10,000 feet. The altitude may bother some people, so go slowly and drink water.
Next was Sunset View, at 10,354 feet,
and then Chessmen Ridge at 10,467 feet, where the 'chessmen' and other hoo-doos, are clearly seen.
Finally, is North View Overlook at 10,435 feet.
All the viewpoints have vehicle parking and are easily reached from the lots.The monument is overlooked and underused, so it was not crowded. We were almost entirely alone during our visit and it was very peaceful.
The enitre road through the monument is just 7.5 miles long and picnic tables are located at Point Supreme and Chessmen.
Camping is available at Point Supreme, where there are also restrooms. Some campsites can be reserved in advance.
Hiking along the rim is available at all overlooks except North View.
After Northview viewpoint, SR148 exits the park and heads toward Brian Head Ski Resort.
The monument is open from mid-June to mid-September. During the winter, there is cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, but no facilities, and the roads are closed.

Just stopped by as an adventure day and so very worth it as we are planning to visit again, and so should you iff you enjoy a short hike and AWESOME views

We stopped at Cedar Breaks to see it - Pretty cool - literally & figuratively - it was 62 degrees and so windy that day we struggled to stay upright. You can just park at the parking lot and hike up a steep little trail to see the canyon - only pay to go to Visitor's Center (we didn't)... It is very high up (10,000 ft). I had trouble with ears after. Beautiful. NOT CROWDED - everyone is all at Zion - so this is good place to go right now.

Although I have lived in the southwestern part of the USA for over 20 years, I had never graced this beautiful place until recently.

While the biggest benefits of Cedar Breaks are its breathtaking views and cool temperatures, there are also a couple of relatively short trails to stretch one’s legs and lungs (the elevation is 10,000 feet).

On my recent visit, the rain and hail came in and the midday July temperature was a cool 55! A few hours later, I was back in the Las Vegas area and it was 106, an absurd 51 degree difference in just 3 hours of driving.

Starting at 10,350 feet, you descend 836 feet into the Cedar Breaks, with the work coming as you climb back out. The out & back trail is 3.7 miles. This hike offers stunning views and rare opportunities to see the storied Bristlecone pines. The Bristlecone pines are estimated to be well over 1500 years old! Be sure to take snacks & plenty of water...hiking at such high elevations is a lot of work! Adding to the spectacular beauty is the lack of crowds found in Bryce & Zion Nat'l Parks. This particular hike was one of the gems we most enjoyed on our 2 week vacation in southern Utah!

The major parks are getting so crowded these days and I prefer a more peaceful experience. I got there around 10:00 a.m. on a Friday morning. Not very many people there yet. Got a spot in the lot by the construction and did a 2 mile out/back hike. Trail was good and views were great. There were enough people on the trail to not feel isolated but not so many to make it hard to enjoy at a slower pace and linger to enjoy the views. Touring the rest of the park was also well worth it. As it got later there were more people but still very enjoyable. A nice gem that was not overcrowded that day.

Cedar Breaks is a fascinating site. I visited during their winter season, so all the visitor centers and facilities were closed. Either way, you don't need a visitor center to appreciate superlative natural sites. I was the only person there during my visit.

Great views from all directions. Clean fresh air at 10,000 + feet. Hardley any traffic or crowds. this time of the year. We only had a few hours to spare, will be going back for a full day for some hiking an picnic

Weather didn’t cooperate with us on this visit. Clouds blocked all views of the canyon. Consider looking at current trail photos before you head up to the rim. I’m sure it’s stunning.

Catch a winter sunset at Cedar Breaks National Monument Point Supreme at 10,350 ft elevation! The scene was breathtaking and the air was cool crisp and peaceful. You can drive up to the visitor center and take in this stunning view. When I visited it was free!

I clustered my visit Cedar Breaks National Monument in the same day with a few other activities. You can visit many amazing scenes in southern Utah! You can easily do Duck Creek Village, Navajo Lake, Cascade Falls, and Cedar Breaks National Monument all in the same day even with a short winter day.

It's sometimes called a mini-Bryce Canyon, but that does neither justice. It's a pay-attention drive up from Cedar City, especially with lane closures, but if you time in right you can not only visit,enjoy the views and find multiple vista points, but also chat with the park staff on what gives them a sense of awe in such an awesome place!

We happened upon Cedar Breaks NM while staying in Cedar City and stopped by while enroute to Salt Lake City. It was an easy 30 minute drive and we were rewarded by the spectacular views! It was absolutely worth the detour.

Great day hikes and short trip from Cedar City. Nice little getaway while attending Shakespeare Festival!

We started off a leg of a bike trip at this location...and the views from the overlooks were simply stunning! The sun was rising and lighting the canyons and the photos we took just can't capture how glorious the colors and the views are.

This was one of my favorite visits during our road trip in Utah. Away from the crowds, a sort of quiet and fresh Bryce Canyon at 10000 ft.
The elevations gives a milder temperature, and there are several nice walks with beautiful views to the amphitheater and also of all the wild flowers and trees. I found the flora as interesting as the views. Beautiful wild flowers and trees.
I especially enjoyed the hike to Spectra and Remparts, about 2 hours at a cool pace.

We always enjoy visiting Cedar Breaks, the views are spectacular and the fresh air is invigorating. Wear good hiking shoes and layered clothing. Temperatures can be cool. Also, bring snaks there was no food service available when we were there.

This was a beautiful place to visit. The ranger was friendly. We had our adult daughter with multiple disabilities in her wheelchair and got around fairly easily on the Sunset trail. The overlooks are obviously beautiful. My hubby and I are afraid of heights so in some spots along the trail we stayed back as there was an open wood fence. You would definitely need to have small children and certainly toddlers on a leash or strapped in a stroller as it would be easy for them to get away and be in danger on the canyon edge. The bathroom was decent. There was a little gift shop and visitor center. There was also a ranger out doing a geology demonstration for interested folks. Another ranger was out at a lookout to answer questions. There were paved walkways near the admission building and visitor center as well as up to the restroom building. The wildflowers were truly amazing. The drive around the area itself is worth the trip and full of wildlife.

Situated at an elevation of 10,350 feet, Cedar Breaks is shaped like a giant coliseum dropping 2,000 feet to its floor. Cedar Breaks resembles a miniature Bryce Canyon. Some visitors say its brilliant colors even surpass Bryce. The Native Americans called Cedar Breaks the "Circle of Painted Cliffs." Millions of years of uplift and erosion have carved this huge amphitheater. Deep inside the coliseum are stone spires, columns, arches, pinnacles, and intricate canyons in varying shades of red, yellow and purple. The bristlecone pine, one of the world's oldest trees, grows in the area and can be found along the Spectra Point Trail. The Dixie National Forest surrounds Cedar Breaks providing lush alpine meadows clustered with ponderosa pines and quaking aspens. During the summer months, the wildflower display is spectacular.

It was closed but all overlooks were available. A bit slippery on the ice 27 Fahrenheit. Very similar to Bryce Canyon without the crowds.

Took. A bundle pictures of the orange clay with white snow

Would recommend

Wow and surprised it was 44 degrees after it being 100 in St George at noon. We read a review that it had scenery to challenge Bryce so our curiosity got us to make the mid afternoon trip from St George. Most of the viewing sites are about 10,000 ft and the views are awesome to say the least. Just before entering the site, we encountered a shepard with hundreds of sheep blocking the road to enter. Although it was a 10-15 minute delay, it just added to the ambience. Lucky we had light jackets a mid-Fall New England day. Don't miss this great park.

This isn't a well-known place to stop. We took a chance and it was one of the best decisions we made. It so happened that the day before they had their first snowfall of the season...it was earlier and more snow than they had ever had. Just BEAUTIFUL!!! The rangers had made snowmen in different locations. One was right at the overlook which made for breathtaking and fun photos. Watching the ranger raise the American flag among the tall snow filled trees was magical. How lucky were we!!! We were told that the Monument would be closing in a few days, so plan your trip before say the third week of October.

We did the last guided snowshoeing hike of the 2024 season with the park Rangers. Both of them were very educated and informative on the wildlife, geology and vegetation of Cedar Breaks. Highly recommended!

WOW! What a place to see while visiting Brain Head. Love that you can drive around and stop at the many parking lots to take in the views! Absolutely breathtaking views! Mother nature at its finest!

We were driving from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon and decided to eliminate some interstate preferring to drive in the countryside only changing our arrival time by a half hour or so. This was such an enjoyable to tour, Cedar Breaks National Park is beautiful as is the countryside surrounding it. We highly recommend this diversion.

Cedar Breaks is in many ways a smaller and more intimate version of Bryce Canyon. It is higher in elevation, with the overlooks iat 10300 to 10500 feet of elevation. A short walk uphill will put many out of breath, since most of us do not live at such elevations. Anyway when we arrived the main parking area was full so we dropped down to the overflow area and hiked the quarter mile trail back to the main area, including Point Supreme. Then we went back to the car and had our picnic lunch inside, because it was too cold to eat outside in mid--September.
After lunch we walked the Sunset Trail both ways before moving the car to all of the viewpoints heading north. Each viewpoint gave a different perspective and along the way we saw plants and animals that live in the park. It was a very worthwhile time in the National Monument and recommend it to anyone visiting the area, including those visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.

The scenery is great, gift shop is so-so, but cozy. Weather was cold, but not too much wind. Fires are not controlled, and add to the effect. Pull-offs offer scenic views & adequate parking.

Very nice views. When you are this close to wandering if you should stop or not.... thank about this, If you drive on by you will always wonder what you would of seen.. Oh shoot, just go see it and maybe you too can say, "Wow, what a great sight!".
Lol.. hope you enjoy, we did.

Superlatives just don't describe Cedar Breaks. It's a relatively small canyon of brilliant colors and interesting ridges and canyons.We drove down US89 from Interstate 15. A beautiful drive.

Getting to the NM we stopped at overlook. Beautiful view. We went to the Visitor Center with large windows overlooking the Canyon. Then we took a short hike on the rim. Not many views of the Canyon. But a nice hike through the woods to a small, very clear lake.

We were far more impressed than we had expected to be. Would go again if we're in the area.

It's like a little mini version of Bryce National Park. Love hiking to alpine pond, or just doing their little paved trail between viewpoints. For the most spectacular view, come during sunset.

As a retired science type, I love places like this. What I really had to appreciate this visit was the patience one of the Rangers had with a couple that wanted to know how it was formed. And where did all the dirt go? The geology escaped them, but not the beauty. It's been well over a decade since we visited any of the parks in this area, but I remembered this as being my favorite. Smaller, less crowded, easier to get to. But just awesome. Unless you're a hiker, it won't take long to see, but it is a gorgeous drive up from I5. And much cooler.

We drove through Cedar Breaks National Monument on our way from Salt Lake City to Zion National Park. The road climbs to over ten thousand feet. We had flown in from sea level the previous night and we could feel the thinner air as we walked around at the three stops we made in the Monument. At each stop we got a bird's eye view of hoodoos, fins, spires in the canyons below - a preview of what we were to see at Bryce a few days later.
We drove from Cedar Breaks to the East entrance of Zion National Park and then on to Springdale near the south entrance. We chose the route through Cedar Breaks instead of the one through La Verkin because it seemed to be ore scenic and we were not disappointed.
It was much cooler in this area than along Interstate 70. It was close to 100 degrees and sunny when we took an exit off I70 and the temperature dropped to the low 60s and cloudy at the top.
The visitor center at Cedar Breaks was also a convenient place to buy the Interagency Annual Pass to gain entrance to all National Parks and Monuments for a year. This pass costs $80. Without the pass, the entrance fee is $7 per person.

The geology is interesting and picturesque for a drive-by view. Similar to Bryce Canyon, without obvious hoodoos. Also, be aware that the road might be closed.

The views here are similar to those in Bryce, but one can enjoy them in relative solitude on a June morning. It's beautiful and quiet -- probably the way Bryce was 50 years ago. We've tried to visit in late fall before only to find the park closed due to snow, so it's a good idea to check that the roads are open before heading out.

We are so glad we decided to make the drive to Cedar Breaks Monument! The Fall colors were exceptional and we en joyed the relaxing drive and stopping at the different lookouts. We didn't have time to do any extensive hiking so want to definitely come back to hike some trails.

We did a drive through Cedar Breaks National Monument in early October. The views from the scenic overlooks were spectacular. We are not hikers, but we were pretty amazed with the incredible scenery just steps from our vehicle. Due to our planned schedule, we had no choice but to make the drive early in the morning during a drizzly rain, so it was very foggy. Even though these were not the best conditions, it was still very impressive.

If you are afraid of heights, just be warned, the drop-offs are unbelievable from these overlooks. Just look at the picture I included from Sunset View! We also viewed Chessman Ridge and Northview overlooks. You can see some hoodoos here similar in shape and color to those in Bryce. The Point Supreme Overlook was closed when we visited due to construction of a new Visitor’s Center, and the website states it will continue to be closed throughout 2022. Even without the Point Supreme Overlook, we were very satisfied with the scenery we were able to see, it was that extraordinary. There are also several trails here that should keep real hikers very happy. In addition, if you have a National Parks Pass, the entrance is free.

If you are in the area, be sure to make time to see Cedar Breaks. It is quieter than the other National Parks nearby, but the scenery is stunning!

Cedar Breaks National Park is 76 miles east of Cedar City, Utah and well worth the trip. The color in the pinnacles are a spectacle winner and the tail are well worth spending all day but take lots of water or buy it there. Cedar Breaks, Zion, and North Rim Grand Canyon Canyon all within a few hours of each other. It's possible to visit all the in one day but not advisable unless you only have one day. Hint: buy a park pass for a few days it will save you money because a ticket is required for all National Parks.

We arrived around 8:30 am and pretty much had the trail to ourselves for an hour or so then people started to come. After we got back from hiking to Rampart Lookout (4 miles roundtrip), the parking lot was full. So my advise is to arrive early. It was also much cooler! The views were amazing! $7 per person. We also hiked the upper and lower trail from Chessman parking lot. This hike was totally different from the first hike but very tranquil and also beautiful. It was only 2 miles RT. The park ranger was very helpful and answered the questions we had. We enjoyed our day here!!

This unexpected hike on Alpine Trail turned out to be the highlight of our trip even though the temperature was cold and windy. We had some sleet when only 2 days before, we endured 112 degrees on the road from Las Vegas to Cedar City.

This national monument has a great view of a collection of hoodoos. It isn't as large as Bryce, but offers similar views. It isn't as crowded as Bryce. When we visited, there was a forest fire burning in the valley. There is a great viewing deck and a nice little visitor center.

Every single employee and volunteer that we encountered here seemed to truly love their job. They were all so happy to share information about the site and to interact with my 7-year-old. Be sure to ask for the Junior Ranger booklet if you're traveling with kids - my child really enjoyed it and was excited to get his very own badge at the end.

Also, check out the star parties! Cedar Breaks is a Dark Sky area, and (at least during the summer?) they have periodic star parties that are well-run. It's nice, as a city-dweller, to be able to really see the stars. Fantastic volunteers brought awesome telescopes and were happy to explain what people were looking at as we all took turns. There was also a constellation tour. The site puts out red lighting, even in the restrooms, to help star-party attendees maintain their night vision. Check the weather - it gets chilly at night, even in the summer.

Absolutely Beautiful!!! Would be a crime not to stop here if you're in the Bryce Canyon area!! We felt this was just as impressive. Would love to see this again!!

Made the trip two years ago in September, this time in October snow was falling. There was already a few inches on the ground made the view all that much more beautiful. The colors of the hoodoos incredible. Worth the extra miles to get to see this National Monument.

Crystal clear skies, LOTS of fresh air, and gorgeous views. At around 10,000 feet this monument is not too heavily trafficked. The rangers were all cheerful, helpful and happy to answer questions. We enjoyed hiking to Spectra Point & Rampart Lookout, as well as the Sunset Trail. WIDE OPEN views for miles & miles.

It is hard to describe the grandeur and awesomeness of the Cedar Breaks. It is a short drive from Brian Head to the vistas that await you, All the shades of red & grey rocks will take time to digest. As you spend time to sit and watch the cloud shadows spread and recede you will be struck by the majesty that nature provides.

Make the short drive and take the short hike on the lake trail for different perspectives of the Cedar Breaks vistas.

Spent a nice summer Sunday here. Picnic. Pics and a nice little hike. Such beautiful views. And of course. Dogs are allowed!!! This area is so peaceful and worth the stop. They are going through some renovations and in the next year some new visitor centers and restrooms. The campgrounds were closed. But the picnic area was open and we were the only ones there for at least 2 hours. Even though my boys are teens, they love taking pics and just wandering around.

Be sure & visit the North View overlook on Hwy 143! My motorcycle group went west past Brian Head down to Cedar City then up Hwy 14 to the park. There is no charge to just ride the highway thru the park, per the ranger at the visitor center.

Try the alpine Lake loop a couple of miles past the rangers station. 2.2 miles long and 200 feet elevation change. Easy hike. Great view

Just be advised that we were just up at Cedar Breaks the last weekend in September 2022. Coming up from the ski area make sure you check out the first two lookouts. Right now a new visitor Center is under construction and we were told it may be a year until completion. The trail you may remember by the old visitor center is also being worked on so there is a little less parking than usual.

The drive itself is worth the detour. Loved making the change in elevation and watching the temperature drop. Watching the sunrise light up the basin and fill it with color was amazing! Loads of tiny hoodoos to enjoy. Looking forward to going back and doing some hikes.

This park was awesome. The views were fantastic. The colors so vivid. Short trails. Short in the park drive. Well worth the visit.

Beautiful scenic drive to cedar breaks national monument. Good hiking trails. Little chilly in the morning.

This was a really beautiful national monument—we felt like we were on top of the world by the time we reached it! It was perfect for a quick detour while we were driving from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park. We did the scenic drive and stopped at each of the overlooks to see the canyon breaks and the gorgeous wildflowers. They are currently (summer 2024) building a new visitor center, but they do have open a nice little temporary visitor center/gift shop. It was a lovely national monument and worth stopping for at least an hour or so!

It was a "Glory to God" moment and breathtaking view the evening we stumbled upon Cedar Breaks. A smaller version of Bryce Canyon, it was incredible with clouds swirling in the sunset. When the sun dipped down and shown beneath those clouds, the entire canyon was filled with a golden color. We went back the next morning and the clouds were still there. That evening, though, they were gone and you could see the Bryce Canyon Hoodoo look. It had snowed which added to our excitement. However, when trying to walk the trails, it was a bit too icy and muddy, much to our dismay.

We visited here for the few hiking trails and the views. Had a great time, it was hot, but not too far to drive for us from Cedar City. We enjoyed the views and there weren't too many other tourists.

Wow! Incredibly beautiful and much less crowded than the big parks like Zion. Also at a high altitude (10,000 ft) so you can beat the heat. The highlight of our trip (and our kids even became junior rangers!)

A great national park and often overlooked for its big brother Bryce which is about 40 minutes down the road. Amazing views and in July is very alive with beautiful wildflowers.

This was a nice day trip from Kanab. Good road up, not scary. The epic approach is from Cedar City. Beautiful views at 10,000 feet on a sunny day. Nice undulating paved hike from visitor center to picnic area and first stop overlook. The other hikes are more strenuous at this altitude. Rangers are very helpful. Electricity was out so could not go in the VC. The cabin had good views and displays. All the overlooks are worth stopping at. Turned the trip into a loop through Panguitch.

We mainly did a drive through but stopped at a couple of the look out areas for pictures. Very beautiful and definately worth a drive through!

The views along the highway and at the visitor's center are very nice. We took the 4 mile (round-trip) hike to Spectra Point and on out to Ramparts Overlook and the hike is spectacular. For most of the hike you are on the "ridgeline" with a good view the rock formations and see all sort of interesting "totem poles", a few arches,..... Its not a difficult hike! Lowlanders beware as you are at about 10,000' elevation.

This is a beautiful National Monument to visit. It is not crowded and has many wonderful vistas. There are a few hikes to take and many views to enjoy.

On my adventures in Utah i had the opportunity to see many beautiful wonders and Cedar Breaks was at the top of the list. The beautiful neapolitan peaks and valleys are stunning. Weather you go in early morning or dusk you will get a great experience. There is a wonderful gift shop and there are docent to guide you on the sites and history.

We stopped here the day after our time in Zion, thanks to a tip from a stranger. So glad we did - this national monument is breathtaking! Take a look at the pictures - it really is that colorful and stunning. It does take a little time to get here, but for us it was worth it to see this beautiful place. Make sure to check timing before you go, as we saw signs noting that the roads here may be closed seasonally or may require snow tires or chains. There are a few little gas stations on the way, but it is relatively remote so don't try to go up there without stopping at a gas stat on the main road if you're low!

There is a fair amount of hiking here, and it looked to all be dog friendly - a huge win for us as we were trying to get our dog some exercise and excitement after being largely cooped up in Zion. The trails are fine for walking with even an excited dog - not slippery or too narrow. As usual in Utah, just make sure you bring plenty of water for your dog as well as yourself, as it's both sunny and very high elevation. We did the trail to the Spectra Point and Ramparts Overlook. Both views were very beautiful - they essentially put you on further and further out points to see a wider view of the same cliffs you're looking at in the visitor center area. The Spectra Point trail is a but challenging but not bad and if you have any interest in a hike, I'd recommend it. The Ramparts Overlook path is more challenging as it has more of an elevation change and at 10,000 feet, those hundreds of feet up are quite the challenge! You get a beautiful, calm walk through a pine forest next to a stream, though, with another nice view of the cliffs at the end.

In the end - I think this was more beautiful - certainly more of a "wow, I didn't know anything like this existed" - than anything we saw in Zion, but with much more limited hiking and really only one view to see. Absolutely worth an afternoon or day, but I wouldn't stay here multiple days unless this is just at the right place for you to camp and stay overnight.

Cedar City was a stop over between Mammoth Lakes and Tuba City. We spent a full day to visit the surrounding: Cedar Break NM (a little Bryce Canyon) and the Parawan gap Petroglyph (awesome).
This review is just a pretext to celebrate the Park rangers we've met during our different trips. There are available, knowlegeable and mostly very firendly. We always make sure to tke a field trip or request information from them. After traveling in different National Parks for the last 40 years we had only a couple of incidents which we quickly forgot.

It was so beautiful and so much cooler up there. The views are amazing and there are no crowds. It was so peaceful. We could see forever.

I visited Cedar Breaks in mid-May, my first time there. The trails were not yet accessible, due to snow, but all of the roadside viewpoints were open. The highest of these was at nearly 10,500-foot elevation, so be prepared for that. Each of the three overlooks I visited - Sunset View, Chessmen Ridge, and North View - were different from one another and all worth seeing. The scenery is somewhat similar to Bryce Canyon though not as spectacular. Still, I enjoyed my visit here and since it took less than an hour to stop at the three viewpoints it was well worth the time.

It was about 33 years ago when I first came here. Almost same time of the year. But then there was still a thick carpet of snow on the ground and hiking along the rim line was quite taxing. The seasonal climate has obviously changed here; snow even at this elevation is absent now. I notice that the wildflowers, though present, are less dramatic than on my past visits. But the hiking is easier and the main trail here connecting the Visitor Center with Spectra Point is among the best 1 mile trails in the American West. You can further the hike a mile or more to the Ramparts and slightly beyond, but take caution that you'll drop down over 300 feet in elevation which you'll need to recover on your return. So 300 feet at sea level is one thing; but at about two miles up it's a different issue. There are a bunch of other overlooks and hikes, too. Do as many as you have the time and energy for. Grab a brochure at the entry station. Buy a pass or show the one you already own. But don't expect to pull up at 4 PM and find a camp spot without reservations. The closest lodging community would be up the road a bit at Brian Head. Cedar City is 20 miles to the southwest and has more facilities. Also Duck Creek Village down and east along the 14 is another nearby option. You could also find camping sites within the adjoining Dixie National Forest. The graded gravel road up to the Brain Head observation vista just north of the park boundaries is a must for spectacular 360 degree photo and video compositions. Always prepare for some stormy weather and stash some extra food an drink in your vehicle.

My husband and I stopped here on our way to Bryce Canyon for a few hours. We hiked the spectra point trail to point supreme. This was a great little hike with some very incredible views. Loved seeing all the colors and different layers of rock.

Easily accessible in summer for great views of red rocks. Even more impressive in winter (if the road is open) due to the contrast of red rock and snow.

Thoroughly enjoyed this much less crowded monument. Well worth the steep drive climb up from Cedar City. Trails are gentle which is good given the elevation.

We visited CB on 5/23/22. Normally, we find Cedar Breaks a terrific NM (5 stars) to visit but with the visitors center closed and the construction on Rte 14 (from Cedar City at least 15 min delay) I suggest visiting Bryce and seeing Cedar City in 2023 when the new VC is complete.
Without the VC being opens, there are no flush toilets in the monument, no exhibits or gift shop and the Pt. Supreme TH parking is very limited. Overall, it was a disappointing visit

Yes, there are “big” national parks nearby, but this national monument shouldn’t be snubbed. It’s not far from I-15 and US 89 and the overlooks, trails, etc. are easily accessible from UT 148 that parallels the amphitheater. A visit to just take in the expansive views can be done in a couple of hours or less, as the drive through the park is only 7 miles. The 4 overlooks are spaced out along that drive and just steps from the parking lots.
The small visitor center is in a historic log cabin at the edge of the cliffs. The geology is very similar to Bryce Canyon National Park, but without all the hoodoos. Note: the altitude is almost 11,000 feet, so the experience can literally be “breath-taking,” especially if there’s a strong wind like the day we visited in mid-September.
We saw deer, marmot, chipmunks and mountain bluebirds during our visit.

We've been to various places nearby in the past but Cedar Breaks has never featured before - what a shame. The road winds up through this park and if coming from the North you will actually have seen all the park before you get to the visitor's centre and the pay station which seems a little silly.

The landscape is very reminiscent of Bryce without so many hoodoos, but the colours of the rocks change from white to oranges, pinks and reds. Each viewpoint is slightly different and there are a couple of walks.

The whole road from the Interstate through the park and on to the Grand Canyon is amazing.

Cedar Breaks is always beautiful but more so with the extra bonus of taking a wonderful walk along the paths through the wildflowers. Plus the scenic overlooks are always worth a visit

Well worth the 20 mile trip from Cedar City. The scenic drive itself is an experience.

It feels like the drive-through version of the Grand Canyon. You drive-up, walk 20 steps et voila - spectacular canyon views as far as the eye can see.

We went during winter time, so we had it almost to ourselves. The drive gets busy with Scrooges cutting their trees before the holidays. -Really people? What kind of spirit will that get you in, you think?-

Fantastic formations. The colors and the shapes carved by the wind are very worth your time. It's easy to see with just a few steps from the car so no hiking really necessary.

Our trip to Zion was planned, and while so close we decided to explore Cedar Breaks. When we read about the current weather, snowpack, and trail closures, we nearly didn’t go. So happy we still went. Views are spectacular, and the variation with the snow made it more beautiful.

We only had a short afternoon to hike and chose the Cascade Falls after visiting the Cedar Breaks National Monument which is spectacular. They were celebrating Wildflower Festival. The Falls, where water from Navajo Lake emerges after flowing underground through a cave, is about one mile round trip. It was a warm day. We wished we had taken bathing suits as there was a spot to swim in Navajo Lake which looked inviting. One couple was pushing a baby carriage!

We hiked the south rim trail and were gifted the views of this amazing national monument. There is plenty of elevation gain and loss so expect some exercise. The sights are worth it!

A guide from a river rafting tour we did from Glen Canyon Dam down to Lee’s Ferry told us about this place and we are so glad we detoured! It was like walking through a dreamland. You could spend days exploring the endless views and trails!

While the road is long and winding, the reward is spectacular! There is a fee of $7.00 to stop and enjoy this monument. It is a very short walk on an evenly paved path to the vista point. There is a restroom, ranger, gift shop and a place to fill up you water bottles! There are some great ranger lead programs available so be sure to check the calendar before heading up the hill. There are also a couple of other trails that are not paved but an easy walk. Some areas have uneven footing so if you have any difficulties you might want to avoid these. I will say you get an amazing view from the gift shop so be sure to stop in and check it out! Almost forgot, we were there in the early evening and it does get chilly! Enjoy!

It was 115 degrees in St George and our hosts took us up to Cedar Breaks where it was 68 degrees. The view was unforgettable as we stood on the precipice watching a hawk soar down to the canyons below. I love the place and wish that I could live near it.

Its one of the nicest places that nature rewarded us that I ever seen.(I am traveling a lot around the world).do not miss it if you are near the lovely parks of Zion or Brice.

We wanted to escape the triple digit weather in St. George so we visited Cedar Breaks for temps in the high 60s and low 70s. We parked at the Chessman Overlook. We did the Alpine Pond Trail and enjoyed the wildflowers. Take the Lower Trail first. Do bring bug spray to truly enjoy the views.

We spend 2 weeks in Utah visiting all the national parks and monuments. Cedar Breaks was our favorite. Just as beautiful as the other parks, minus the crowds. The weather is also cooler due to the elevation.

Our Cedar City Utah vacations always include this spot. So beautiful, breath taking. What can be said to make it any more majestic than it already is. A definite spot to go to while in Southern Utah.

Wonderful area with stops along the top to get out and view the scenery with minimal exertion. Then there are trails that take you along the rim or to a pond that are just magnificent.

By accident we came across Cedar Breaks National Park whilst heading to Cedar City for a night-stop. It is actually only 21 miles from Cedar City. It is a mini Bryce Canyon equally picturesque but on a smaller scale. Very worth while checking it out.

I camped in Cedar Breaks for 4 nights last July. It was beautiful during the day and very cool at night - perfect for camping. The park is absolutely gorgeous. I attempted a long-ish hike on my second day. That was a bad idea. I am from Oklahoma, and, even though a veteran hiker, I was not acclimated for the altitude. I wound up with a case of altitude sickness. I spent that afternoon curled up asleep in the back of my Xterra. Be sure you respect the altitude and don't overdue it for a while after arriving. I definitely recommend camping up here.

Breath taking views. Local History Museum is so cool. And the new visitor center is great. Don't pass this up! Perfect photo opportunities.

The road up and through Cedar Breaks is a great drive. Plenty of places to stop and admire the views. It is cool up here even in summer - 10,500 feet. Take the road from here down to Panguitch with beautiful forests on either side.

Cedar Breaks is a breathtaking stop along your journey through the mountains with hikes and look outs

There aren’t many places on earth with this much natural beauty brought together one area. Cedar Breaks has long been a favorite and the center of attention when near Cedar City. The view of course is breath taking at over 10k feet altitude. If you travel north from there you get more amazing views. Even the high mountain meadows are something to behold and less than 30 miles you’re at Brian Head ski area. If you instead stay on Hwy 14, you will see Navajo Lake, a natural lake created by volcanic activity. The Aspen trees are connected into a very large living, breathing plant and depend on each other to support their life. If you slow down and look, you’ll witness many animals in their natural environment including deer, elk, birds of prey, and many ground hogs and their relatives. There’s many places to fish for premium trout species, even just from shore.
Easily the best place in my opinion to eat is at Milts Steaks and Seafood. The have one of the better salad bars around, also offering wine and spirits.
There’s many places to stay to fit your budget, many with pools and jacuzzi’s.
Cedar City is only 49 miles north of St. George, so Zion Nation Park and Kolob Canyon is not far away.
There are many festivities scheduled throughout the year including car shows, and a Renaissance Festival. There’s also places to rent all wheel drive vehicles that are street legal.
Try getting out of your comfort zone and go explore here, there’s plenty to see and do !!!

Cedar Breaks National Monument is an absolute gem and not filled with a big crowd! The stunning amphitheater with its vibrant colors and unique rock formations took our breath away. The panoramic views are simply unparalleled, especially during sunset when the hues become even more dramatic. The trails are well-maintained, offering varying levels of difficulty for all types of hikers. The visitor center staff was friendly and informative, adding to the overall fantastic experience.

We spend a day at Cedar Breaks in between our visits to Bryce and Zion. And it was great!

It had amazing views like Bryce does, but without the crowds. You cannot go into the amphitheater, but you can walk the rim and it is really doable.
We did a 8,8 km hike along the south rim and only passed a couple of people. We were planning to only do the first part of the hike (two viewpoints), but ended up doing the whole thing. It took us 3,5 hours (with breaks) to go to the furthest point and come back.

I can really recommend it as a stop on your way from Bryce to Zion. It’s actually a bit like Bryce but a miniature version. And so quiet and peaceful. It kind of felt like a well kept secret.

Would totally recommend!

Very similar to Bryce NP but it’s own charm . Colder st the top as over 10,000’. Plenty of free camping in Dixie National Forest.?

We hiked several trails. There are some hidden gems. Due to high elevation, it is much cooler than that in the valley. Great for short stops.

Interesting place to see if it's on your way. Restrooms were closed, unfortunately. Walkways were hevily iced up, so be acreful if you go in should seasons.

North Rim of the Grand Canyon was closed because of fire, so did a road trip up to Cedar Breaks for the day. SO GLAD we did! Mini Bryce type canyon that faces west. This was a pretty sight, and then drove north thru the park and did a decent short hike down to a small pond.

The area is filled with beautiful high meadows that look like they’d be prime elk spotting areas at sunset, BUT a ranger said they are elusive as they are hunted and scare easily.

Make SURE you do the Cascade Falls hike! It’s short but MAGNIFICENT, as you get a great elevated view down into Zion and see a waterfall coming out of a hole in the rock.

Also, the LAVA FLOW was the big surprise of the day. Massive 1000+ year old lava flow as far as the eye can see from a volcano eruption. Beautiful aspen line it everywhere.

Lastly, Navajo lake was a beautiful stop to view.

I'm not one to miss a National Park property if I'm in the area, so we swung by Cedar Breaks on the way from Bryce Canyon National Park to Las Vegas. I was surprised to find 3-4 foot deep snow along the roads as we got close to the park. The sun was going down, so the colors on the western facing walls were brilliant and the snow just added to the beauty. We checked out the North View Overlook, which was very windy, then drove to Sunset Point and finally to the Visitor's Center, which is towards the South end. The center was closed for the day, but luckily the bathrooms were open.
Definitely stop if you are in the area. The vista is beautiful.

Cedar Breaks National Monument is a place that is not overcrowded. Not many people have heard or gone there. As many times as I have been to that area and have never been. We were pleasantly surprised. Will go back for sure.

One of the best National Monuments in our country and should not be overlooked simply because you've been to Bryce Canyon National Park. It's been said a million times before and I'll say it too, Cedar Breaks is like a mini Bryce Canyon. But why would you skip it for that reason? You loved Bryce Canyon right? So it only makes sense you'll love Cedar Breaks too!

Some of the highlights are Spectra Point (accessible via the two mile Ramparts Trail), Point Supreme (10,350' above sea level), Sunset View, Chessmen Ridge Overlook and the Alpine Pond Trail. You'll see many views that remind you of Bryce, but you'll also see lots of trees and ponds if you do the Alpine Pond Trail. Do it all! The park is small and you can see most of it in just a few hours. My hubby and I love driving up as we live in Mesquite, Nevada and it is only 1hr 50mins via I-15. We have been lucky again this time to be able to find the Sheep Herder with his huge fleet and his dog in the meadows after Brian Head and also enjoy the wild flowers blanketing the meadows. Cedar Breaks is an unexpected delight!

We love Cedar Breaks and the trails and lookouts that lead to the beautiful vistas from this National Park.
The wildflowers are in full bloom and the trail though them is stunning.
I highly recommend Cedar Breaks, even if it’s just a drive though this scenic part of Utah.

This was a nice place to go too. Where driving through the area this summer on our way to San Francisco and had to stop i Cedar City for some days and went up to the breath taking you have to go and see for your self

This place is breathtaking. You can just go for the views or do a hike. Great time to go for a hike is in July when the wildflowers are abundant. Different levels of hiking are available.

Be sure to go here if you are in the area. The drive is besutiful and fun and the views are really amazing.

The views at Cedar Breaks are amazing. We only stopped for a few minutes but it was completely worth it.

This place just blew me away. Great trip from North to South. We are coming back to ski and paddle board.

The views are amazing and watching the sunset here is a highlight! While we were there we were told that the visitor center/park store is still closed for winter so we did not get to see any of the exhibits there. The only thing open is the bathrooms and the fee station is manned during limited hours. The snow made for beautiful scenery but a cold experience. We plan to go back during one summer so that we can have the full experience.

Got to see California Condor, The staff at the visitor center were helpful and friendly. On the Alpine Pond trail they have access to a trail guide, this make the hike more enjoyable.

I love to travel to this national monument in the summer to take long hikes in the clear air at over 9000 feet in elevation. Trails throughout the area take you to stunning views reminiscent of Bryce Canyon National Park but on a smaller scale. I have visited this park for many years and never get tired of the ever-changing light and shadows on the rock formations and hoodoos. June and July are great times to visit if you like mountain wild flowers.

The beauty of the national parks and national monuments Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, Arizona, South Dakota and other parts of the American West is that there aren't two alike. Each has its own character and identity, a different footprint, a different signature attraction that makes it stand out from the rest. Take Cedar Breaks National Monument, for example. It isn't as celebrated as Grand Canyon or Yellowstone or Arches or Canyonlands or Bryce or Zion. It attracts more visitors than some, fewer than others. Located near Cedar City, Utah, it is a natural amphitheater that stretches across three miles with a depth of over 2,000 feet. It is the headwaters of Mammoth Creek, a tributary of the Sevier River. The elevation of the rim of the amphitheater is over 10,000 feet above sea level. The eroded rock of the amphitheater is more eroded than but otherwise similar to formations at nearby Bryce Canyon National Park, Red Canyon in Dixie National Forest and select areas of Cedar Mountain. Its rim visitor center is open from June through October but, because of its elevation, snow often makes parts of the park inaccessible to vehicles from October through May. Established in 1933, the National Monument is located near the west end of the Colorado Plateau and covers the west side of the Markagunt Plateau, the same plateau that forms part of Zion National Park. The area is a form of badlands--canyons, spires, walls and cliffs so steep and confusing that the lands, while of great aesthetic value, are of little utilitarian worth.

Amazing views! Would highly recommend for anyone flying in from SLC to Zion to make this stop!! We found the overlook in Parowan just outside Cedar City and it blew us away!

Since the weather was good, we were able to visit the park in early November. There was snow everywhere, but we were able to drive through, and visit all the overlooks. We also tried hiking but all the trails were pretty much covered in snow. What a treat this was! We were basically the only people there and I feel like we were able to get a great experience just by spending some time at all of the overlooks. The walks from the parking to the overlooks were short, and the views were spectacular. And the air was so fresh and clean too. I highly recommend this park. Given its location close to all the Utah parks, I would definitely call this a hidden gem. Highly recommend. I'd love to come back again when there is less snow and hike down into the amphitheater.

If you are visiting southern Utah for sightseeing, Cedar Breaks is a must-see. This alternate route from the I15 across the 143 is magnificent. Take a very short detour south on the 148 to the Visitor Infirmation Center, then continue east on the 14. Worth every extra mile of driving!

We stopped here quickly while on a bus trip. Wish we should have had more time here. Got our passports stamp and a bathroom stop.

Not huge but glorious! You can spend 90 minutes or six hours. You decide. Really lovely park with amazing views.

not a lot to do, but just beautiful more of the same/similar scenery as is over in Bryce canyon- I recommend it if you are in the area

Cedar Breaks is an amazing natural beauty. Our only regret was that we weren't here at sunset to see the amazing sunsets that we read about. Everyone raves about the national parks in the area but this place rivals them. Why deal with the over crowded parks when you have a beauty like this. This is high in elevation so if you are going in the later Fall, it will be cold and that wind will hit you hard.

In a week and a half, we visited seven national parks and national monuments, and we were surprised how much we loved Cedar Breaks in comparison...it’s truly a hidden gem! The formations were massive and very colorful. The park wasn’t at all crowded and was 20 degrees cooler than Zion, which made it a very enjoyable visit.

We did about a mile of the rim hike, which was so beautiful! Our six year old could do it, but we made her hold an adult hand some of the time because there are some steep drop-offs. We also did the alpine pond hike, which has some nice views of the canyon as well as the beautiful wild flowers.

There are several nice picnic tables by the main entrance. The rangers were nice and had some telescopes set up to view the sun and planets during the day. So glad we made the visit!

Beautiful but really small little park. We had been to Bryce a few times and so knew what to expect, and we enjoyed Cedar Breaks. But I will say, we felt like its such a small park we needed more and had to go straight to Bryce from here, and since its not far,. the two together is a GREAT day!

Don’t be fooled by the name, there is no monument to anyone or thing, it is just mile after mile of stunning views. We were originally put off by the name but having nothing planned we went anyway and boy am I glad we did. It is definitely not to be missed.

A medium version Bryce Canyon, short trip from Cedar City. Ranger talks at various times. Great sunsets.

We never pre-planned to stop here but so glad that we had the time to squeeze in a short (1-2 hour) walk to enjoy the incredible views that Cedar Breaks offers. There was plenty of parking and the walk was thankfully not crowded in the slightest. If time allows, go here!

Besides the phenomenal beauty of Mother Nature, the other thing that caught our attention was the temperature difference between Cedar City (where it was a warm 92 degrees) and Cedar Breaks (where the temperature was an extremely pleasant 72 degrees). Even though it was the peak of summer, there were still quite a few large patches of snow, where kids were having a wonderful time playing.

In the midst of the great Utah National Parks, why take a side trip to "just" a nearby National Monument? Well, it's beautiful, that's why. Skipped it the first time in the area and needing to drive through, thought I would take the 30 minute detour off I-15 to stretch the legs and see what I missed. Naturally (no pun intended), it is not as vast as it's nearby Bryce or Zion, but the cedar and aspen journey, with volcanic lava sprinkled in, is a different look. Plus, you can spend 30 minutes or hike your time. Don't underestimate Cedar Breaks. Definitely worth the trip.

Cedar Breaks is the unknown "geologically younger" sibling to Bryce Canyon. It's smaller but still quite beautiful. And it's at 10,300+ feet of elevation, so be prepared for some thin air. I was there on Oct 6 and caught the fall leaves on the aspens at near peak. It was so very pretty, amazing, and colorful. It doesn't take much time to hit the viewpoints so you can see pretty much everything in a single day. There are only a few trails and they all stay up on the rim: two are short and easy. The other, the Ramparts trail that follows one rim, is longer, but more exposed. There is a small visitor center with a small gift shop, but for food and lodging you will need to go north to the Brian Head resort town.

My family of 4, boys aged 4 and 6, had a great time at Cedar Breaks for the afternoon. We had come from Great Basin NP and were headed to Zion NP. The views were incredible and the hiking we did was very easy. The staff were all friendly that we encountered.

Love this park. It is truly a beautiful place to visit. The breaks are very beautiful to look at but so are all the wildflowers during the summer and also all the wildlife especially the marmots.

A visit to Cedar Breaks is a great escape for the summer heat in the valley. The views are outstanding. There is so much to see! The hikes around the edge is fantastic and an easy hike. The visitor center is quite instructive regarding the history, flora, and fauna. be sure to take the short hike with the Ranger who has a great deal of knowledge about the area. Want some good eats? Duck Creek is close by with a couple o good choices.

We stayed in Hurricane as a base for Zion, Bryce, etc. We found this on the map when looking for things to do in the area. WOW what an amazing departure from the 100+ degree heat in Hurricane! Cedar Breaks sits at 10,250 feet. With cool, fresh air, trees everywhere, a tiny but impressive museum, and hiking trails, this is a must-do if you are in the area. Plenty of places to pull off the road on the drive up & down the mountain. Rangers are extremely friendly and run an excellent gift shop with nature displays. Go to lunch at Las Flores or Centro Pizza in Cedar City when you come down the mountain.

Such a beautiful sight. Visitor's center has lot's of interesting info. We stopped there on our way back from Vegas and it was horribly hot everywhere except at Cedar Breaks where the temperature was perfect. It was a great break from the heat.

Why park your car at a gift shop, board a bus and be shuttled into a park with hundreds of other people at Zion? EXPERIENCE THE REAL UTAH! Actually enjoy a hike in solitude and see the magnificent hoodoos, rock chucks, abundant deer, red spires, and orange mountains of COLOR COUNTRY!

Words cannot describe the beauty this place has. No matter how many pictures you many take, you’ll never be able to capture how amazing the mountains are. Utah has some of the most incredible views. Truly heaven on earth.

Even if the NM is not on a "through route" - a small detour is worthwhile. Fantastic nature, animals, peace and breathtaking views! July and August are usually snow-free. An absolute tip between Zion and Bryce!

Drove through on our way. Back from Sedona. Snow on the cliffs was just amazing. Great views and wonderful vistas. We will be back.

Worth the trip up the mountain! The drive isn’t at hairy as it may seem. Once you get past a couple switchbacks, it’s smooth sailing. So glad I went.

I've driven through Cedar Breaks several times. It's always very special and a most enjoyable drive.

Unbelievable views of a fantastic canyon. Great pull offs and several real easy and nice walks at different overlooks. Don't miss it.

I was monitoring the road conditions closely on our driving vacation through the Utah National Parks. Fortunately, the roads in Cedar Breaks National Monument were plowed, and the Monument opened the day before we got there.

There was still several feet of snow in places, but the roads to the viewpoints were plowed, and the views were amazing. We had already seen Bryce Canyon, so were able to compare. The views at Cedar Breaks were like seeing Bryce Canyon half covered in snow. It was also very cool (no pun intended) to go from 90+ degrees F at Zion National Park to 54 degrees F a couple hours later. That, and snow. Loved our brief driving tour of Cedar Breaks!

Spectacular of course, stunning in every sense of the word. It is especially attractive for those looking to view nature at its finest without having to walk a great distance to do it. From the parking lot the restrooms and the viewing area are very close by and for those that require scooters or wheel chairs, you won't having any trouble accessing the best views. Once you make it to the viewing area though, you will need to stand up in order to have the best views down into the Breaks. There is a wheel chair accessible trail that is a mile long which will afford differing perspectives too. Other walkable trails are present with the longest being about two miles. The gift shop and visitor center is quite small but offers its own window viewing down the mountain as well as selling site specific goodies. Next to the viewing windows is where you may find your National Park passport stamps. We spent less than an hour there and saw all we desired. You will be at 10,000 feet above sea level so keep that in mind for the altitude challenged.

Park rangers & volunteers assemble powerful telescopes to view the summer sky at 8:30 At 10:00 the ranger conducts a laser constellations program. It runs only on Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s at 10,350 ft so dress warm & bring cocoa. You won’t be sorry you made the 30 minutes drive from duck creek. Cedar Breaks is a global night sky viewing spot.

My husband and I went here for our 49th wedding anniversary. It was just gorgeous! Walked out to see the Bristlecone Pines, so wonderful to see.

From the drive in we were amazed at the sights . We even saw a big horn sheep 5 minutes after entering . Truly a beautiful location you must experience for your self.

A wonderful National park, easy to navigate, 4-5 scenic overlooks with walking trails, and some are paved. Stunning scenery.

This place is not as famous as others, but the view of the canyon was spectacular. So many hoodoo formations! Great for hiking as well. We loved it!

We came toward the evening. Chilly but the views are amazing! We had our little girl… She loved the paved walk way. We loved the views and safety fencing made us feel safe.

Had no idea this place existed. We were driving down to St. George and had planned to visit Kolob Canyons but found out that the road was closed for several weeks for repairs. We looked for an alternative and found this online. Seemed to have some good reviews so we gave it a try. The short detour from I15 was well worth it! We visited at the beginning of October and the leaves of the Aspen trees were on the turn which added to the already stunning scenery. It would be very easy to breeze through and not pull off into the viewing areas - but this would be a mistake!
The drive climbs very quickly to over 10,000ft - the change in temperature is noticeable.
Check out my photos. . .

Great park for viewing from turnouts along the road. Visitor Center is the best location to view the entire monument.

A hidden gem before you get to Bryce Canyon! So worth the drive, especially if you are coming from Zion to Bryce & Moab. Beautiful scenic drive up to 10K feet, and out of nowhere, this gorgeous canyon! A mini-version of Bryce! Nothing much there yet as far as signage, visitor center, etc, etc -- but that is hopefully coming. We stopped and found the overlook, and took some stunning pictures. Very windy at that high point, hang on to your hats! Loved it, plus the drive past Panguitch Lake and down to town was really pretty as well.

Cedar Breaks overall was disappointing. I didn't realize it was so close to my route so it was a last minute stop that I didn't plan out ahead of time. I figured I could get the info I needed at the visitor center. Nope. Not sure if there was a visitor center. Construction crews were working on what looked like the visitor center and they took up all of the parking. I learned later that popular trail may be right there so any parking left was full. If there was a temporary visitor center they didn't have any signage.

Drove around and saw a paved path that I thought I would go on later. Since there was no visitor center, I had no map and no idea what I was doing. Pulled off at an overlook which was cool. Great view. Then went to the next overlook and there was a trail there too. A sign said it was a two mile loop to an alpine pond.

I went on the lower trail which was steep downhill then flattened out. Lots of great views. Came upon an enchanting pond that was perfectly clear and had pretty green moss at the bottom. Saw a lot of birds. At the pond was where the upper trail started. It had a lot of switchbacks so it wasn’t too steep then a long flat walk back to the car.

Kept driving north but didn’t see anywhere else to stop and it looked like the park ended with a road going straight to Panguitch and a route to the east so I turned around. I really needed a restroom but couldn't find one so I left without walking on the paved trail. Never saw any other hiking trails.

People say this place is better than Zion or Bryce Canyon but I don't see it. Sure it was much less crowded overall, but there was still very little parking when I went and other than the two overlooks there wasn't much to see.

A mini-Bryce Cannon without all the traffic. The night sky on a moonless night is a great way to see the Milky Way. There was a retired astronomy professor there one night with special binoculars to see the sun.

Cedar Breaks National Monument is a nice hideout from the crowds and the summer heat that you’ll experience at nearby Zion National Park. Located at 10,350 feet elevation, summer temperatures are low and camp sites are easy to find at Point Supreme Campground. We arrived early to find a choice of first-come-first-served sites.

Camping at this elevation can be surprisingly cold, even mid summer. At a stormy night we needed all our clothing (including woolen hat and down jacket) to get a comfortable sleep. The camping has very nice big spots, each with a picnic table and a fire pit. There are also restrooms with showers, chopped firewood, and water spigots.

From our campsite (#3) we could see the ridge of the Cedar Breaks Amphitheater. Except, we couldn’t actually see the natural wonder, as it is lower than the ridge. We only learned this after we had followed the Campsite trail to the Visitors Center and Amphitheater.

There are a few short but amazing hiking trails into the monument, we did the Spektra Point trail of 2 miles out and back. We did not do the extra 2 miles to Ramparts Overlook, because of bad weather.
The scenery, views and even the bad weather made this a very memorable trip. There is real solitude and peace to be found here.

The monument itself and the whole area surrounding is incredible. You’ll want to stop at EVERY lookout and DEFINITELY drive to the top of Brian Head Peak. These mountains are still pristine and you can see farther than you ever imagined. The red, white, and yellow rock formations contrasting with the dark green trees and blue sky are amazing. Wildflowers everywhere.

I loved this area and could totally see myself moving her. It is all surrounded by desert then mountains, AWSOME.

There's really not much to do here except walk to the edge and look down. And the scenery is very similar to what you see at Bryce Canyon, with better amenities andmore to do.

Cedar Breaks is about 35 minutes from Cedar City and convenient from I-25. The red rock in the area are great, but the hidden gem is to be around the first two weeks of July. The wild flowers are stunning and the alpine meadows are amazing. There's plenty of easy hikes, a visitors center and even a campground.

If you're here in the summer, there's guide star gazing as well as sunset point is really cool.

I was so impressed with the views and had a wonderful time hiking the trails. The trail to Rampart and Spectra Point was especially lovely. For a time it winds along the edge of the cliff, then suddenly you’re in a gorgeous forest, the back out to the edge again. It rained on us the day we visited, but it made the color even more beautiful and vibrant. I also enjoyed the Alpine Pond trail. It was another pretty forested hike. I’m sure Cedar Breaks gets overlooked by people visiting the National Parks, but it is absolutely worth a visit.

This is a hidden gem and should not be ignored if you are in the area. With Arches, Zion and Bryce descended upon by the masses, Cedar Breaks is a welcome respite of beauty and calm. I hope it stays that way.

Parking can, however, be a problem. Just be patient - someone will pull out and you'll get a place to park. There's not a drive through entrance. You have to go to the booth and show your card or pay. There is a small visitor's center, ranger walks and discussion, bathrooms and picnic tables all at the main location.

There are also several hikes - one is 4 miles, one is 2 miles. We did the 2 mile hike and it was not difficult. There is a little bit of up and down on dirt or rocky terrain - not for wheelchairs or strollers. There are places where wheelchairs and strollers can go near the visitor's center and you get a spectacular view of the main valley of Cedar Breaks.

There is also a wonderful area a few miles to the north - Chessman. There are several overlooks that are easy to get to as well as picnic tables. The are several hikes that go down around an alpine lake. The hikes are mostly in the forest so it's shady and cooler. These trails are also not for wheeled vehicles - there's a bit of up and down to the trails.

Take water and if there are rain clouds, take a rain jacket. Storms roll in and out.

Cedar Breaks is beautiful. My daughter and I really enjoyed visiting it. However, we were there in mid-May and nothing was open - no rangers, trails closed off, and more. We have been to countless national parks and monuments and have not encountered one that is not open in May. And it was such a bum that the trails could not be hiked.

Quite a find! Just North of Cedar City, you are in a world all its own - hoodoos sprinkled in a pine forest. n May 17, there were still snow piles left over. The wind was at least 40mph and the temperature was 43 degrees. Avoid the crowds at Bryce National Park by stopping here. The formations are not as extensive, but you get a sense of the magnitude , while also experiencing the forests. Each have hiking trails and occasional amenities.

this is a great place to see, it is beatiful and it does not take that long to drive thru and enjoy the sites

This is a great location to come to around 2:00 a.m. for Dark Skies viewing as well as enjoying the beautiful views in the daytime. Watch for lots of deer and porcupines in the night.

We left Bruce canyon and drove to Cedar Breaks. Scenic views and sort of a backs roads experience. Not very heavily traveled until you got close to the campground or lake. No cell phone service in many places. Made it to elevation of over 10,000 feet! Got back to I- 15 to head to Cedar City.

be sure you stop at each of the pull offs- the views are amazing- we went back a second time just so my wife could get an incredible sunset photo

As I read through the reviews I noticed people enjoying this place over Brice Canyon because there is no summer crowds. It is on a much smaller scale but very close to Cedar City. We ran up here and looked around then came back through in the morning. Bring a jacket it will drop 20 degrees at the top

nice side trip with great hiking area. stay overnight in cedar city. eat at the all american diner. meutermedia

Absolutely love Cedar Breaks! It is beautiful, easily accessible, and has a nice variety of hikes and outdoor activities. Visitors of all ages will enjoy this National Monument.

This is just a beautiful piece of nature that everyone should see at least once. Take your time and get out and take a hike and I joy

We drove through the park and stopped at several vistas to look at the beautiful amphitheater. It is a smaller version of Bryce Canyon and it doesn't take very long to enjoy it. We didn't do any of the longer hikes but imagine they were nice. The areas that we went to were all paved and easy to walk. The many different colored rocks are so interesting compared to other places that we have been. We drove here through Brian Head which provided some interesting views too.

Cedar Breaks is just as beautiful as Bryce Canyon, but without the crowds. Its a better place for sunsets, but the early morning was pretty spectacular as well.

I'm here often. Generally a stopping point between Bryce and home. This is a wonderful place for day hiking and very high mountain camping. The hamlet of Brian Head is nearby and Cedar City is about 17 miles down road. At this time, there is heavy construction at the visitor center area. Parking is open as is the main view trail. However, things can get congested here. So there's also another very enjoyable trail you can take up the road a bit. Start at the Chessman Overlook and follow the Loop trail into the forest. My choice was to follow the lower trail which follows the ridge before turning a bit in to reach a small recovering alpine pond. You're over 10,000 feet elevation here. And the wildflower array can be outstanding. Continue on the lower trail from the pond to the alternate parking and then follow the upper loop trail back to Chessman. You also have the option of connecting back down to the lower trail at the pond and returning the way you started out.

Don't overlook it and just go to Bryce and Zion. It is amazingly beautiful. The surrounding area has pine forest, lakes, mountains, camping, and ski slopes.

Great to spend time at while visiting Cedar City. It's not crowed, so it's one of the few places you can enjoy your time in peace.

beyond beautiful. it is a place where you can feed your soul. It's too nice for the Mormons to lay claim to it exclusively.

My husband visited Cedar Breaks because we decided to take the scenic route to Bryce Canyon and we were so glad we did. Cedar Breaks is an amphitheater in Utah. The scenery is beautiful and it is not crowded. It ended up being one of my husband's favorite stops on our trip.

Very cool place. Must see. There c trip up was long. Be prepared to stop a bit on way down because of steep grades.

I was working as a volunteer in the Cedar Breaks National Monument area. We were doing a study in pollinating insects for the Southern Utah University. So because we were sampling out side, we were working around the National Monument (not inside the Monument). I had never been to Cedar Breaks, but it is outstanding. I took many pictures of the National Monument. I would highly recommend that if you are in the area, that you include a trip to Cedar Breaks. It is worth the effort and is a beautiful place to get in touch with Nature.

Bryce and Zion may get all the attention, but Cedar Breaks is worth the time! The Alpine Loop hike is the perfect length and has amazing views, The other lookouts are not to be missed. Can't wait to enjoy the new visitor's center, although you can still get your passport stamped and pick up a map from helpful Rangers at the temporary site, which you'll hit first if coming from Cedar City. They also have an indoor toilet.

Mini version of Bryce but still breathtaking! The drive to see it is very scenic as well - we did a loop from Cedar City and it was definitely worth it!

This place is amazingly beautiful. It is at abt 10K feet elevation though and the road is a bit windy. Cedar Breaks is a national monument and one of the only Dark Sky Parks in the United States. The star gazing is incredible at night. Check the Park Schedules for star parties which are super cool. There are nice picnic areas too. It is very close to Cedar City and well worth the trip!

We went at a time when all the flowers were in bloom! The formations are amazing! We all loved the views! We definitely want to come again.

Not far from Cedar City, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a breath of fresh air (due to the high altitude of 3000m) and "cold" temperature (66F or 18C) really nice in mid-July coming from the Death Valley (122F or 50C).
Not to mention the amazing view of the amphitheater, with very diverse colors and rock fomations.
Well worth the detour from Zion National Park, and way less crowded.

We were on our way to Brian Head for the day, and had to drive through the park on our way. At over 10,000 feet, I was glad I brought a coat! The lookouts got a little breezy, and due to the late spring this year, there was still snow on the ground and the campgrounds had not yet opened.

The rangers and volunteers were very laid back and helpful. I observed a ranger “swearing in” a 3-year-Old Jr. Ranger - it was actually a touching and sweet moment. Another ranger was setting up a special telescope to allow visitors to see the sun. At the pay station, volunteer Krystal Glass was a delightful representative, answering questions and offering tips.

They are an official “dark sky” park, and offer star-viewing sessions during the summer evenings.

There are a few lookout locations, a small visitor center and picnic area. A lovely stop on our drive.

So we entered the road that went thru the mountains at Brian Head, UT no idea what to expect. The landscape changed and become more moon like. We climbed and climbed some more and watch as the temp went down a whopping 30 degrees. Next thing we knew we were 10,000 FT above sea level going through a fanciful ski resort area. Then we kept going and bam, Cedar Breaks park. WOW...WOW WOW WOW. 10,000 feet up something happened here that created this "city in the sky" I call it. The hoodoo formations are awesome. Some look like choirs of people close together, some look like judges in a judges chamber in session. Let your imagination go at this place, it's just awesome. It's literally at the top of 10,000 ft and a giant hole in the ground of magnificent beauty. It is SO WORTH the side trip.

Rising 10,460 above sea level, people often miss this visual treasure that sneaks in between Bryce Canyon and Zion’s National Park. We took the girls for a quick visit during our 4th of July holiday and loved every stop me made.

This canyon is at 10,300 feet in elevation and is beautiful. Not as large as Bryce, the Monument is still worth a visit. The small visitor center was constructed in the '30's by the CCC and is National Register listed. Go to the back window and look out - you definitely will not be disappointed with the view!

Well worth the $10 per person. Fairly sho
rt drive. Was windy and cool but spectacular. Make time to walk the alpine loop trail

This is sort of a mini-Bryce Canyon, and I actually prefer it to Bryce. It's not as big, but as other people have said it's much less crowded than Bryce. It's also easily accessible from Cedar City, which has several reasonably priced motels and hotels, so it's much easier to get accommodation here than at Bryce.

There are several viewpoints within the park, all accessible by car, and several trails. If you have time for some hiking, it could be a full-day stop, as there are several hiking trails in the park, some being nature trails through forest, and some being walks along the edge of the escarpment, giving great views over the colourful rock formations.

If you only want to visit the viewpoints, it might become a half-day visit, in which case (if you are staying in Cedar City) you could combine this with a half-day visit to the northern portion of Zion Park, starting with a visit to the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, only 20 minutes south of Cedar City. (Note that the Kolob Canyons visitor center is closed from noon to 1 PM, and you can't buy admission tickets to the park during that time).

The food is amazing and the staff are wonderful. The restaurant is beautiful and very clean. I recommend this place and will be back.

Loved seeing this as it exceeded my expectations. Lots of trails to Walk on and I heard it was a great way to see the stars

Beautiful! We went back three times! Sunset was awesome! We were there the end of May and it was a little chilly...still snow on the drive up to sunset point. Gorgeous! Take your camera and tripod!

Staying at Brian Head as a jumping off point to see many things throughout southern Utah. Cedar Breaks was the first of several sights of awesome grandeur. It was literally breathtaking! The view, like none other we have ever seen before ( and we have been to many U. S. National Parks and Monuments) . The vastness along with the unusual formations was breathtaking, plus not yet being totally adjusted to the high altitude and a brisk wind, “breathtaking “ like never before!! I am surprised that this site isn’t just as popular as other national parks.

Excellent small monument, great place to walk your dogs, as the pets are interested in the smells of nature, as you take in the views. Don't expect Bryce, but do expect great scenery.

My brother took us to see the view by the Forest Ranger's station. I guess that's the same area that the wildflower festival takes place and we visited on the day after it ended. There were rangers there talking about the plants people could find and they had a few handouts for people that were pretty cute like "Wildflower Bingo."
Past the bathrooms and rangers stations there is a paved area that takes you to this spectacular view of the canyon. The ledges are fenced off with thick logs and you can see for miles. I can't describe what you'll see but man, it was breathtaking. I know that's cliche, but I'm no wordsmith.
It's an easy jaunt to the scenic area and, as I said, it's all paved. My one complaint was other people and their kids being noisy, annoying, and stupid but that's life.
I can't wait to go back, maybe hike a few trails, and enjoy more time outdoors there. It's worth seeing.

Cedar Breaks is defined as the smaller version of Bryce. I would agree. We visited early in the morning on the way to Bryce. The park offers some scenic views in a colder climate. The park was small, quiet and lacked the crowds of neighboring Zion to the south and Bryce to the east. Very easy to get to along a very scenic hgwy in the Dixie National Forest. Highly recommend to beat the heat and the crowds.

Stunning vistas. Beautiful mountain drive. Wild flowers, wildlife & hiking trails. So glad friends suggested the drive.

This place was such a pleasant surprise. We stumbled upon it and loved it so much. The volunteers took time to show us the moon and the sun through filtered telescopes!

We have enjoyed the nice scenery and beautiful views going from one high altitude (about 3000 m) lookout point to the other.

Hidden gem nestled at 10,000 feet above sea level. Drive up there is gorgeous! Few trails but amazing views from the canyon rim. We did the Alpine pond trail, still had some snow patches, gorgeous views on one side, and pine trees all over, beautiful flowers at this time of the year.

The elevation is not for the unfit but this is a beautiful place. Well kept up- as are all of the parks in Utah.

The drive to the destination is as magnificent as the destination itself. Although many visitors flock to the national parks, this monument is as beautiful as many of the parks if on a smaller scale. I would definitely recommend the adventure to visit here.

Cedar Breaks National Monument was the perfect start to my 2020 road trip. The park was not overly crowded, perhaps due to COVID fears. The park staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. The landscape did not disappoint, offering excellent photo opps from multiple overlooks and hiking trails. Everywhere you focus your eye, you can see a different layer of color, rock formation, or shadow to add to a photographic composition. The roads in the park are open at night for photographers who want to catch the sunset, sunrise, or Milky Way. It was pretty windy up top, so make sure you hold onto your sunhat.

Spent about 2 hours in September here. Did the Point Supreme Overlook and the Spectra Point Overlook trails. The rocks are colorful and beautiful. The Point Super Overlook is a great trail and leads to great views.
Definitely worth a stop if close to area.

Very limited viewing spots but it is on the way to Zion. Was pretty high in elevation (10,300ft.) if that is a problem for older folks. They has some volunteers at the visitors center with telescopes (4) observing the sun. Very interesting to observe the surface of the sun.

Not far from Cedar City and slightly off the beaten path is yet another beautiful place to visit. Make sure to stop and enjoy nature at her best, again! Probably would be majestic at sunset?

My wife and I visited here recently and were awestruck by its beauty. The views were beautiful and it was very quiet wherever we hiked. When it was 105 degrees elsewhere in Utah, it was 60 degrees up in the high elevation ( 10,500 feet) at this gem of a place.

Wonderful place for viewing the outdoors. Indescribable views and opportunities to see wildlife and plants especially at fall time.

We went here thinking that with a name with the word Monument in it, it must be man made, we were surprised to find out that it wasn't. Parking was very bad here and it was hard to find a park. When we did we spent time walking along the edge, it was breath taking! Well worth a visit, even though we stumbled across it.

It's a super cold adventure (bundle up!) but the views with snow on red rock make Cedar Breaks more than worth it in winter! You have a snowmobile or snowshoe in, but guided tour options for both are a great experience.

Snowshoe hikes: Guided tour through Cedar Breaks (nps.gov/cebr)
Snowmobile Tour: Thunder Mountain Motorsports (brianheadthunder.com)

*All reviews are based on our team members' experiences while exploring southern Utah. The tours reviewed here were in January of 2024 and our team had a blast!

Beautiful views! You only have to walk a few feet from the parking lot to see the view, however you should definitely hike here if you have time and are able to.

The hike is along a rim and railings are only located along a few feet of the spectra point so if you're afraid of heights this is not the hike for you. I was traveling with someone who is afraid of heights and they took one look at this view and turned around and went back to the car.

On the plus side this is an easy hike to do alone as it's hard to get lost since you're following the rim, and cell service is surprisingly good if needed.

I have visited all of the surrounding National Parks in Utah but somehow never got to Cedar Breaks till now. It is quite spectacular and similar to Bryce Canyon in colors and much smaller. At nearly 10,000 feet it is much higher than Bryce and cooler. In mid-June, snow was still everywhere. The drive is inspirational and easy.

Its only twenty minutes from Brian Head. Every vista you stop at is more beautiful than the last. With out a second thought Utah has the country most beautiful National parks.

We held a family reunion in Brian Head about 10 or 15 miles away but the Cedar Breaks area and National Monument was the highlight of the trip and is a sight everyone should see at least once in a lifetime. Aside from the Monument area, there are many other areas to behold the majesty of this place along the highway. Anyone vacationing in Southern Utah or near Zion should absolutely take the time to see it. The altitude is VERY high however so those with breathing issues should take precautions. They actually sell oxygen canisters in some of the little groceries along the way. There are great hiking trails in the area for those of you with stamina.

It is gorgeous all year round but when the snow falls and covers the mountains and surrounding scenery, it is hard not to get lost in it's beauty!

We stopped and paid, and expected to see some great sights, but perhaps we are jaded by seeing so many spectacular things in our travels. There are a few overlooks. This was very high altitude, windy, and I have to admit that we oldies were out of breath, and a bit battered by the wind. It was pretty, but I'll not be interested in ever going there again.

Must stop on the way from Bryce to Zion. Fall colors were amazing. Overlooks were beautiful. It was about 20 degrees and windy when we came through, so we did not spend a lot of time here, but if you want to do some hiking, I could see spending a full day.

There are very few views like this anywhere in America! Neat to see the orange cliffs contrast to the green trees. Beautiful area

I'd give it a 5 rating but it was closed until Memorial Day weekend. A hidden gem to me having not heard of it before visiting the Cedar City area.

Rangers here were very helpful answering questions. The four overlooks each had excellent views of this amphitheater. Worth the drive to this somewhat remote area.

This monument is quite unique--some call it a mini-Bryce, but that was not my impression. The canyon is beautiful and viewable from many viewpoints along the highway. We drove all the way to the Visitor's Center (which is cute, filled with fun souvenirs, and staffed by a ranger with lots of information) first, then drove back toward Brian Head where we were staying, stopping at each viewpoint along the way.

During the week we were there, a small forest fire that started naturally was burning. We got to talk with one of the fire management rangers who let us know how they were monitoring the burn.

A long ride to Cedar Breaks National Monument and not much hiking possible. Pretty but not nearly as spectacular as Bryce. If you go to Bryce, this will look similar, smaller and less accessible. The visitors center was closed and fenced off.

We have previously visited Zion and Bryce and are touring currently to Cedar Breaks and Capitol Reef. This did not disappoint. The views are spectacular. We hiked on one of the trails in the park...would have done more other than one in our party had blisters from a previous day hike. The picnic zone was beautiful. Wonderful wildflowers. Take a long-sleeved shirt...in August the windchill was cold...especially for us Arizonans

This is a national monument, so don't expect a huge visitors center. But there is a great overlook and a handful of hikes. The Alpen lake is my favorite. The stargazing and other events are wonderful!

Beautiful views and a few hikes. They aren’t strict on their fee policy but pay it to help with the up keep. Several look outs to view and take photos and Brian Head is nearby for more hiking.

Easy access, amazing views and some great hikes with no crowds makes Cedar Breaks an awesome national park. The views of the Amphitheater formations / cliffs are amazing from locations that are so easy to get to, walk to and access. You can go on some adventurous hikes or just stroll along the paved walkways for amazing views. This is more of a hidden gem park, doesn't get the crowds like Bryce & Zion but similar rock formations and beauty.

There are several lookout points, camping grounds, hiking trails (One of them is even paved) and a nice visitors center. A national parks fee is required. Cedar breaks is about midway between Brianhead Mountain and Lake Panguitch.

30 min drive from cedar city on I-15, High above 10000 feet, very clean air. Very good for light hike, even with wheelchair is ok. Great place for photos too.

Lovely colors and formations up in a high mountain setting. What could be better? It isn’t as big as Bryce Canyon national Park, but it is less busy and delightful. Worth the drive. Visitors Center is being rebuilt. Nice rim hike around the top with lovely views. Best for evening, photographers should wait at their favorite spot in evening for “golden hour” to get the best pictures.

Spectra Point: Enjoyed the hike to Spectra Point. Did not go always the way to Rampart due to a time limitation. You just need walk up from the parking lot to the top of the trail to really get the main pay off. From there you can see the canyon and the fabulous view. As you walk on it is upwards to a parks yurts at a high point then you start the descent to the Spectra Point Overlook. You are out on a point so you get great views. Actually you view the canyon for most of the hike out to the point. ON the return you can ascend back up to the top point where the yurt is and then descend the rest of the way to the beginning of the trail If is about 2 miles and out back and 236 ft elevation if you just do the out and back to Spectra Point. There are restrooms at the parking lot and you maned booth to pay you parks entrance fee or show your pass.

Alpine Pond Nature Trail: Nice walk in the alpine wood with a small pond as a payoff but not really special. There are a lot of dead trees in the area either due to fire or beetles that take away from the scenery. No restroom at the parking lot.

We drove through the park and stopped at each of the 4 main vista points and then to Brianshead resort and back east to highway 41 and back to Cedar City. The colors of the canyons are amazing. There are longer and shorter hikes. An easy quick one was to Alpine Lake. There is a small fee but definitely worth it! Bathrooms were closed and everything closes end of today. Glad we made it in. They are prepping for winter and with the 1st snow the road through the park will close.

We stayed outside Zion to run socially distanced race and wanted to avoid the Zion crowds, Cedar Breaks did not disappoint. A beautiful 40 minute drive from Virgin that climbs about 7,000 feet was stunning in and of itself. Cedar Breaks was not crowded and we paid our ten dollar per person entrance fee and took a 2 mile “hike” on the Sunset trail. It would have been easier to drive to the overlook. It was super windy when we were there so driving to the overlooks is your best bet if it is cold and windy. The views are absolutely stunning

I have driven pass the road that leads to Cedar Break at least 5 - 6 times on my way to Bryce from Cedar City. Never again. It is a magical place. There are 2 - 3 hikes around the rim which will take you nearly all day to do. Even though they are only several miles long at the most do not under estimated the fact that you are at 10,000 + feet. 1 mile fills like 10. But the views from the viewpoint are so worth it.

The views here are magnificent. They have some relatively short and easy walks. However, the ground is uneven and would not be suitable for everyone.

Beautiful place. Just looks like an ancient volcano that just blew out the side of the mountain. You are about 10,300 ft above sea level, or almost 2 miles up. We hiked to Spectra Point which was a little challenging, but fun and beautiful views at the end.

Can't say I ever heard of Cedar Breaks, but seen it on the map on our way to Byrce so checked it out. So glad we did!
Cedar Breaks is completely above 9000 feet and if you vehicle can take some gnarly road, you get up to over 11,000 feet in elevation.
Beautiful mountain sides of different colors make this a photographic gem. There are nice side trails to hike as well, but I would love to come back for sunrise or sunset. Its must be fantastic! Love Cedar Breaks!!

One so many places in Utah to go and see. The trees and flowers were beautiful when we visited. It is one of those places that has great scenery and not that many tourist. If you have the time go there. As in much of Utah there are many beautiful drives.

Want to beat the heat in summer and still have those amazing red rock views with hoodoes, fins, etc? This is your place. Great camping at 10,000 feet and great eye-popping hikes along the rim of the red rock ampitheater.

This was a wonderful site. It was even more spectacular when we were surrounded by hundreds of sheep being shepherded across the highway.

This is a lovely national park. We hiked Sprectra Point and Rampart Trails and enjoyed the beautiful views. Be sure to take plenty of water because this hike is rated moderate. This is a very nice hike but be aware that it’s all downhill on the way to the end of Rampart Trail, and then it’s all obviously uphill on the way back; there is a 500 foot change in elevation. There's no rush so take your time and enjoy the scenery. Be sure to take the scenic drive as there are pullouts to stop and enjoy the views.

While staying in Zion we had an extra day and decided to check out this national monument. And we are so glad we did. Beautiful scenery everywhere. And a very easy drive to get here. Bring a picnic as there are so services in this area. Enjoy!!

It was still cold the day we went with about a foot of snow on the ground, and the trails were closed because of the snow. They are at a 10,000 foot elevation, so the air is quite noticeably thinner, but the views are amazing! This is a must see in my opinion if you cannot make it to Bryce Canyon. The staff are very knowledgeable and helpful. It does cost to get in, but if you have the annual pass from the National Park Service, the cost is covered with the pass.

Having been to both Bryce and Cedar Breaks, I would choose Cedar Breaks everytime. The lack a people is #1, the trails are uncrowded, the scenery is gorgeous and the fresh mountain air is not polluted by tour buses

The hikes were beautiful and the bristlecone pines are incredible! They have a few different hikes for different levels. The bristlecone pines can be seen on their popular spectra point hike. The spectra point hike was fairly easy, we saw people doing it in sandals, we saw children doing the hike. The hike is cliffy at some points but the path is pretty wide. They had a geology talk that was interesting, however brief.

The park is only about 30 minutes from Cedar City and the temperature dropped to about 70. The drive is beautiful. We did hit a deer on our way up, so be alert and careful. Parking is limited, we had to take a few laps to get a spot. We came at about 12pm and it seemed like some of the morning crowd was leaving.

Breathtaking views on east to moderate loop trails. Visitor center and scenic viewpoint was nice. The Jr Ranger program issues special badges made out of wood. Fantastic family stop. At above 10,000 feet its also a nice break from the heat.

Decided to visit this after seeing Bryce and before heading to Zion. This is really underrated, but definitely worth visiting. After stopping at the VC and then seeing the view from the historic cabin, I headed out on the scenic drive. Didn't take long at all, but the scenery was absolutely amazing. If you have a chance, stop here and you won't be disappointed.

We were able to go to cedar breaks and I highly recommend it. There is small and big hikes. Well worth the stop. This is a hidden gem!

Cedar Breaks is a small National Monument with hoodoos and views similar to Bryce. There are a number of overlooks and a few trails that get you into the woods and provide breathtaking views. A visitors center provides information and toilets, and the park has comping. NOTE that the road through the park is closed in the winter, and can only be accessed via cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobile - the park is popular in the winter for these activities.

Beautiful spot and interesting rick formation. It was quite cool and very windy the day we visited but that didn't matter. We did not hike we just parked at a couple we pull offs and walked to the overlooks. We even threw some snowballs. The 2 girls in the gift shop were super nice! We had visited Zion the day before so this was a welcome break from the crowds. We spent about 30-45 minutes here. There was only 1 road open due to snow there. This is fairly high elevation at over 10,000 ft. We were told the last year they only had 1 day above 80. A nice stop between Zion and Bryce.

Views so incredible at sunset, worth every minute you go out of your way to stop. Worth every delay the local cattle herds cause by crossing the road. Stunning!

This national monument was very unexpected… the amazing views and hikes, and the wildflowers. There are campgrounds, picnic areas and plenty of hikes with views. The gift shop and visitor center have lots of gifts and items specially aimed at the Bristlecone pines but has other things as well. The staff were very helpful with hike recommendations.

Loved the stop here, cold and breezy today, always pretty. If your passing by you must stop here. National monument, use your national park pass.

Cedar Breaks is definitely worth the trip up the mountain. The trip definitely takes some patience but we were lucky to get there at the start of the season. There was still snow all over and the wind was ferocious but the views were spectacular. We chose to enter from the northern route, 143/148 and made sure to stop at each viewpoint, in my opinion this park is as good, but different from Bryce but is more isolated and easier to see. Would definitely recommend.

We stopped by this park mainly to take the short Bristle cone Pine Trail. Bristle cone Pines were on my bucket list and we have never made it to the ones in Central California, even though we live in California. We were amazed by the canyon view at Cedar Breaks National Monument, and enjoyed finally seeing Ancient Bristle cone Pines. Restrooms are available near Visitor Center. Wear sturdy shoes for hikes and bring snacks because there do not sell sandwiches.

A small park with an awesome view. We just happened across this park as we left Bryce Canyon. The drive from Cedar Breaks to Cedar City is a beautiful drive. Don’t miss this little park.

Easy to drive from viewpoint to viewpoint. Beautiful colors. Some stops you can hike and I mean really hike. Per some tourist from the Netherlands they suggested I do not continue to hike down to the bottom by myself because they saw a few very undesirable people. So try and stay in larger groups, on the main road and do not hike down by yourself. Otherwise the views are amazing. It is super clean and a very lovely day almost no matter the weather. Road is closed sometimes due to snow!

We visited mid-October when it was bitterly cold, with snow falling. It was well worth it as the scenery was stunning, a smaller version of Bryce.

Cedar Breaks is an amazing place--different enough from Bryce Canyon N.P. to justify a visit. At a little over 10,000 feet of elevation, it is never hot, and one can gaze westwards over a series of scenic mountain ranges. The amphitheater of beautiful sedimentary rock layers takes one back through eons of geological time. Raptors love to soar and dive into these canyons. The compact yet informative visitors' center is just a short jog off Utah SR 14. Here, one can gaze at one's heart's content without competing with the mobs of people found at Bryce and Zion N.P.s. This is a good place for bird watching and viewing some Bristle Cone Pines--which can live to be thousands of years old.

Started the day out of Hurricane, UT and tried to get into Zion. The crowds were horrible with no parking anywhere. Cars are not allowed on the scenic drive, only the park shuttle which does not allow pets.

Decided to make the 90 minute drive to Cedar Breaks. What a beautiful place! 65 degrees versus 90+ at Zion. Stunning scenery, no crowds. Great ranger presentation. Lots of hiking trails. Brianhead, UT is 20 minutes always with lots of lodging and places to eat.

Unless you are in to Disneyland style crowds and waits, pass on Zion and check

I was here on a weekday in June. There weren't a lot of people, at times I felt like I was only one there. The views, I don't need to tell you, are amazing. The fee is $7 (I was solo, might be more with additional people.) You pay at the booth in the Visitor Center parking lot. There are restrooms and water filling stations there as well as a small info/gift shop. Definitely go inside even if just for the view in there too. Anyway there are a handful of relatively short easy hikes at various spots (bring bug spray.) You also drive around and stop at overlooks. Highly recommend staying for sunset if you can. It was really windy up there when I went, not sure if it's always that way. I imagine even in middle of summer it gets cool up there so maybe pack a light jacket. If you don't stop and partake of any of the hikes it might feel like you're done with everything after an hour. But either way it's worth the visit.

My mom (77 yrs old), my son (16) and I hiked out to the Bristle cone pine and back (2 miles round trip). Great views and worth the effort! Yes, it's 10,500 feet in elevation but take your time and enjoy!

It as a beautiful ride up the canyon to the Cedar Breaks Naional Park. You need to stop at several of the overlooks to get different views of this beautiful canyon.
I understand that the trail around the rim is a great hike.

We were primarily attracted to Cedar Breaks based on comments about its Wildflower Festival. This year, the wildflowers seemed to skip Cedar Breaks for the most part. There was not much variety, even when hiking to the Alpine Pond there were fewer than 10 species readily visible. Even the park ranger we talked to admitted that there was not much to see in terms of wildflowers.

The geologic formations were worth seeing for a few minutes, though if one has recently seen Bryce Canyon they would be disappointing.

Very short walk to the viewpoint and easy for wheelchair bound people, although there is a walk along the rim which needs good footing. There are also several other stops along the rim to see the Breaks. It was quite cold and windy so dress appropriately. Visitor center was closed for the winter.

The drive from Cedar City was gorgeous and after the park, it continued on to Kanab.
We had a short visit, just visiting the viewpoints. No hiking. Elevation is high, the air is much thinner up there. Simply stunning views. As others have mentioned it is abit like Bryce Canyon.
They are building a new visitors center. Look forward to visiting again some day.

A mini Bryce Canyon- They had snow the day before we visited which enabled photos of the snow capped formations. great sight for us Floridians.

Cedar Breaks National Monument is absolutely breath taking. Unbelievable geology and formations. Beautiful colors and so stunning. There are many other fantastic National and State parks in the area.
Utah is absolutely Beautiful and Fantastic to visit.
We will be back many times to visit in the future. Summer and the parks are beautiful and skiing in the winter is fabulous.

It was well worth it to take the "Scenic Route" home to see Cedar Breaks. We visited during the lovely Flower Festival. The view of the breaks is breathtaking. The location had fresh water for filling up our water bottles and pathed trails to the main overlook and the Sunset Overlook. The restrooms were clean, with running water, flushing toilets and soap.

We lucked out as Rt. 148 was just plowed 3 days before we arrived, What a hidden gem this is. Spectacular views just like Bryce Canyon but on a smaller scale. We were here on May 7th so there was no charge. Nice hiking trails and NO CROWDS. Very peaceful experience with gorgeous views. Still some snow so the contrast between the red rocks and the snow with green pines is awesome. Must see.

Between these two national parks is this lovely park with relatively level trails for all abilities. It is not very crowded and parking is available. I recommend the Spectra/Ramparts Overlook trail, which offers spectacular views of the canyon amphitheater.

Great views and colors with numerous hikes available - easy, challenging, short, long - something for all. Visitor center and gift shop available, plus they had a couple Rangers outside explaining things and doing "show & tell."

We went there at sunset, and it was so beautiful! Then, once the sun went down, we were able to see the stars and the milky way. My six year old loved it.

We drove through on the way home and stopped at the overlook. It was stunning. If it hadn’t been so cold (32 degrees) we would’ve tried some of the little nature hikes in the area. I look forward to going back soon and exploring more.

Stunning and spectacular views. Great to explore with the kids. A great visitor center with the Junior Ranger Program and Badge. Wonderful to meet all the fantastic staff the NPS has to offer. Great parking and friendly.

Bring your Senior National Park membership card, it is honored here. The walks are easy. The drive along the ridge is not so long and the views are spectacular.

My hike of the Spectra Point and Rampart Overlook Trails started before 6:30 am. The sun was breaking through the tree as I hiked the 3.7-mile trail. No one else was on the trail this midweek morning. I enjoyed the bristlecone pines, the colorful formations, the morning light, and wildflowers.
The hike is at the 10,000-foot level, and there is over 800 feet of gain round trip.

Stop at the overlooks and really enjoy the views, this little gem is a little out of the way but worth the trip.

There is an excellent viewpoint just above Brian Head UT resort rt143 for a wonderful canyon view, sunsets, sunrises and viewing clear night skies and star. The Milkyway was visible in OCT just the moon was too bright that night.

We hiked here on two separate days and each hike was awe inspiring!!! The wildflowers, the trees, and the geology have to be seen to believe. Definitely a must do in Utah!

We were here for the weekend for our Grandson’s baseball tournament in Cedar City. Due to COVID, we didn’t really have an interest in venturing out. After we were convinced that we should see Cedar Breaks, we were so glad we did. It is a site worth seeing. The park attendant told us to come back at 10 pm to see the stars and a comet that might take place. Unfortunately we weren’t able to do so. The view during the daytime was amazing. Reading about how this place came to be sparked an interest with the grandkids. That’s the best part. Learning and keeping them curious. Such a great state, with so much nature and peace. We kid about moving to Utah. This is a must see.

Although I've lived in Utah for over 40 years, this was my 1st visit. Planning to return soon as rain curtailed our planned hikes.

We were here in mid-May, the park was open for a few days

A beautiful trip via Dixy Forest to Cedar Breaks where there was still snow in many places due to the high altitude. (above 3000 meters)
Cedar Breaks is located on the same plateau where Bryce Canyon is located, so the same beautiful views as Bryce,
but much fewer tourists.

We had a fantastic time at the Saturday star party at Cedar Breaks. The rangers set up telescopes and let you look through them and tell you about everything you are looking at. Seeing Jupiter like that was amazing. The rangers were very knowledgeable and were great with kids and adults alike. Its a very pretty place to begin with, but the night skies added another level.