Cedar Breaks National Monument is a natural ampitheater that sits over 10,000 feet above sea level. The ampitheater is 3 miles across and over 2,000 feet deep and has similar formations as Bryce Canyon and Red Canyon which are located fairly close by. Because of its elevation, the area often receives deep snow and although the park is open year-round, it is usually inaccessible to vehicles from October through May. Each year’s snow level is different, so make sure to check before you go.
Fun fact: the canyon erodes at a pace of about 2 inches every 5 years. There is a small visitors center on the rim that is open from June through October. During the winter months, access to the park is typically by snowshoe, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiles.
Cedar Breaks is easy to find, whether you are coming from the north or the south. As you travel on Highway 89 and come to the junction with Highway 14, turn and head west on Highway 14 for 23 miles. Turn right on Highway 148 and continue approximately 4 miles to the park.
Cedar Breaks is a small monument, but there are a few hiking trails located here: Sunset and Nature Trials, which are easy hikes between the overlooks; Alpine Pont Loop Trail which is a moderate hike through forest and meadows; and the South Rim Trail which is moderate to strenuous and follows the rim down to some cool viewpoints.
This is a very pretty place to see the geology of the area, take a hike or two, experience dark night skies and explore the fall colors in the area. Cedar Breaks doesn’t get as much love as its neighbor Bryce Canyon but that doesn’t mean it is any less majestic. We recommend getting out and discovering the beauty (without the crowds, which is a plus!)