Cedar Breaks National Monument
Pictures courtesy of the -Daniel Gillaspia: Cedar Breaks National Monument.
Cedar Breaks National Monument, perched at over 10,000 feet in southern Utah, offers visitors an extraordinary view of a natural amphitheater carved into the Claron Formation. Spanning more than three miles, this stunning geologic wonder showcases brilliant red and orange limestone spires, hoodoos, and ridges. Known for its vibrant wildflower displays and expansive starry skies, Cedar Breaks is a sanctuary for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Read about our family’s Perfect Day at Cedar Breaks National Monument.
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Cedar Breaks National Monument |
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Adventure Log: |
Read about our family’s Perfect Day at Cedar Breaks National Monument. |
Map: |
Park Map |
Visitor Centers: |
Cedar Breaks Visitor Center: Located near the Point Supreme Overlook, this seasonal visitor center provides essential park information, educational exhibits, and maps for exploring the area. Staffed by knowledgeable rangers, it’s an excellent starting point for learning about the park’s unique geology, history, and flora. |
How to get There: |
From the North: Travel south on Interstate 15 to Cedar City, Utah. From Cedar City, take UT-14 East for approximately 18 miles, then turn left onto UT-148 North, which leads directly to Cedar Breaks National Monument. Follow signs to the visitor center and overlooks. From the South: Drive north on Interstate 15 to Parowan, Utah. Take exit 78, and follow UT-143 East for about 15 miles, then turn south on UT-148. Continue on UT-148 until you reach the park entrance and visitor center. |
Cedar Breaks National Monument is a captivating natural amphitheater known for its vibrant, layered rock formations that have been sculpted by millions of years of erosion. Located at an elevation exceeding 10,000 feet, this lesser-known gem offers visitors a chance to experience breathtaking views, crisp alpine air, and a quiet escape from the more crowded parks of the region. The amphitheater’s colors shift throughout the day, with the oranges, reds, and purples of the limestone cliffs coming alive in the sunlight.
Popular attractions within Cedar Breaks include the Point Supreme Overlook, which provides panoramic views of the amphitheater, and Alpine Pond Trail, a two-mile loop that winds through meadows and forests and offers a peaceful way to explore the park’s flora and fauna. During summer, the park becomes a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, celebrated during the annual Wildflower Festival. For night sky enthusiasts, Cedar Breaks is designated as a Dark Sky Park, providing exceptional stargazing opportunities.
The significance of Cedar Breaks extends beyond its natural beauty. The park is a haven for biodiversity, with its high-altitude ecosystem supporting unique plants and animals. It also holds cultural importance, as it was historically inhabited by Indigenous peoples, whose legacy is reflected in the area’s name and preserved traditions. Cedar Breaks continues to inspire awe and reverence in visitors who seek a deeper connection to Utah’s natural wonders.
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