
Cedar Breaks National Monument
A breathtaking high-elevation amphitheater in Utah, showcasing vibrant hoodoos and unique geological formations. A serene alternative to busier parks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds

Cedar Breaks National Monument
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking high-elevation amphitheater in Utah, showcasing vibrant hoodoos and unique geological formations. A serene alternative to busier parks.
"This place was so much more than what I expected to see here. It was such an unassuming drive... it just pops out of nowhere. Breathtaking."

Check Road Status First
High elevation means snow! Always check if roads are open before you go, especially spring/fall.
Sunrise is Magical
Catch the best light and fewer people. The colors are truly breathtaking.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Point Supreme Overlook
Main viewpoint
Panoramic views of the amphitheater's vibrant hoodoos and unique geological formations.

Spectra Trail
South Rim Trail
A moderate 2-mile loop offering close-up views of the colorful badlands and ancient bristlecone pines.

North View Overlook
North Rim
Offers a different perspective of the amphitheater, often less crowded than Point Supreme.

Winter Wonderland (Seasonal)
Entire park
When accessible, the snow-covered landscape transforms into a serene, otherworldly scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Road Status First
High elevation means snow! Always check if roads are open before you go, especially spring/fall.
Sunrise is Magical
Catch the best light and fewer people. The colors are truly breathtaking.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at over 10,000 feet. Be prepared for sun, wind, and chill.
Visitor Center Hours
The visitor center closes at 5 PM, but the park itself is open 24 hours for stargazing!
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Road Status First
High elevation means snow! Always check if roads are open before you go, especially spring/fall.
Sunrise is Magical
Catch the best light and fewer people. The colors are truly breathtaking.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can change rapidly at over 10,000 feet. Be prepared for sun, wind, and chill.
Visitor Center Hours
The visitor center closes at 5 PM, but the park itself is open 24 hours for stargazing!
Bring Water & Snacks
Limited services inside the monument. Stay hydrated and fueled for your explorations.
Respect Wildlife & Plants
Stay on trails and don't feed animals. Drones and dogs are not permitted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cedar Breaks National Monument for its awe-inspiring, unique geological formations and breathtaking panoramic views, often comparing it favorably to Bryce Canyon for its tranquility and fewer crowds. Many highlight the stunning beauty, especially during sunrise and fall. Some note that while the visitor center has limited hours, the park itself is accessible 24/7, making it great for stargazing.
"This place is all inspiring. From the southern visitor Center just walk straight out and you are greeted with this massive landscape. You can see for miles and miles and the landscape is very unique. Take a moment and read the various information that's available at the visitor center as they are very helpful. The geological formation at this area is quite amazing. They are restrooms you can use and it's easily accessible from the parking lot. There are several viewpoints around this monument and I highly recommend you go to her the Northern viewpoint as it gives you a very different perspective. I think the best time to visit is doing sunrise and not sunset."
Tony W
"Nice place for a quick stop to see Bryce canyon NP-like views. The spectra trail was nice, but they also have an observation deck area that will give you equally nice views of you don't have time to walk the trail. The gift shop has reasonably priced shirts and sweatshirts. You're required to have your state park pass to enter this location but no one checks so you can basically just walk the trail and see the observation deck without having to show your park pass at all. As long as you don't go into the visitor center, you're good.
There is a clean bathroom at the parking lot."
Rachel Brower
"Out of the way but what an amazing stop. It was 80 degrees and felt like 68 with the breeze. Nice new visitors center, and incredible views. We didn’t have time to do any hikes this time, but have done them in the past and they provide more awesome views of the canyon and you pass some ancient trees. Worth the stop and worth going out of the way to visit. Our national park pass was good to get us in, so no extra charge!"
larry hall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cedar Breaks is located off Utah State Route 14, about 30 minutes east of Cedar City. It's also about an hour from Bryce Canyon National Park and a little over an hour from St. George. Many visitors stop here en route to Bryce.
The park roads are typically closed due to snow from late October/November until late May/June. However, the road may be cleared for hikers and bikers during the winter months. Always check current conditions.
Yes, the scenic drive along the rim offers multiple overlooks. The road is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October, weather permitting.
Cedar Breaks is part of the National Park System. While some reviews mention a state park pass or national park pass being accepted, it's best to check the official NPS website for current entrance fees or if your pass is valid.
The closest major airport is Las Vegas (LAS), about a 3-hour drive away. Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) is much closer but has limited flight options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cedar Breaks National Monument typically requires an entrance fee. However, some visitors have noted that passes like the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass are accepted, and sometimes checks are infrequent. It's always best to confirm current requirements on the official NPS website.
The monument itself is open 24 hours a day, year-round, weather permitting. The Visitor Center, however, has limited hours, typically closing at 5 PM.
Since Cedar Breaks is a natural monument with an entrance fee, tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival. There's no need to book far in advance unless there are specific ranger programs or events planned.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and children through various passes like the America the Beautiful Pass. Check the NPS website for details on passes and potential discounts.
Yes, the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is generally accepted at Cedar Breaks National Monument, as it is a unit of the National Park Service.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Spectra Trail (2 miles roundtrip) is highly recommended for its close-up views of hoodoos and ancient trees. The South Rim Trail offers accessible viewpoints and connects to other trails. For a shorter walk, the paved path from Point Supreme is excellent.
Absolutely! The paved paths at overlooks are stroller-friendly, and the Spectra Trail is manageable for most families. The unique landscape is captivating for all ages.
You might spot mule deer, marmots, chipmunks, and various bird species. Keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
Cell service can be spotty to non-existent within the monument. It's a good idea to download offline maps and information before you arrive.
Dress in layers! Even in summer, temperatures can be cool due to the high elevation. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Point Supreme and North View Overlook offer stunning panoramic shots of the amphitheater. The Spectra Trail provides opportunities for intimate shots of hoodoos and ancient trees. Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting.
No, drones are not permitted within Cedar Breaks National Monument to protect wildlife and the natural environment.
Yes! Being at a high elevation with minimal light pollution, Cedar Breaks is an excellent location for stargazing and astrophotography, especially when the park is open 24 hours.
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the unique colors of the hoodoos are still impressive.
While official tours might be limited, local photography guides or groups sometimes offer excursions. It's worth checking local tourism boards or photography forums for opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as services are limited. Dress in layers, as the high elevation can mean rapidly changing weather. The visitor center offers educational materials that can make the geological wonders even more engaging for kids. It's a wonderful place to introduce children to the grandeur of national monuments without the overwhelming crowds of some larger parks.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by Cedar Breaks, finding it an 'unassuming drive' that 'pops out of nowhere' with 'breathtaking' views. It offers a similar geological spectacle to Bryce Canyon but with fewer crowds, providing a more relaxed and personal experience. It’s a great way to add another unique natural wonder to your itinerary without a significant time commitment.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
The high elevation (over 10,000 feet) means crisp air and stunningly clear skies, making it a prime spot for astrophotography after dark. Sunrise and sunset cast a magical glow over the landscape, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the rich hues of the rock. Visiting during the fall foliage season adds another layer of beauty with the contrasting colors of the trees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Cedar Breaks
These ancient rock layers tell a story of a vastly different past. Millions of years ago, this area was covered by a shallow freshwater lake. As the lake receded and the land was uplifted, the forces of erosion began their work, slowly shaping the landscape into the breathtaking spectacle we see today. The bristlecone pines, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth, cling to the slopes, their gnarled forms a testament to their resilience in this harsh environment.
Understanding the geological processes behind Cedar Breaks enhances the visitor experience. It's a living museum of Earth's history, offering a profound connection to the natural forces that have shaped our planet. The sheer scale and intricate details of the formations are awe-inspiring, making it a must-see for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Experiencing Cedar Breaks in Different Seasons
Fall is a spectacular time to visit, with the aspen and fir trees along the rim turning vibrant shades of yellow and gold. The crisp air and cooler temperatures make hiking a delight. Visitors often report a magical experience with the fall foliage contrasting against the red rock formations.
Winter transforms Cedar Breaks into an otherworldly, snow-covered landscape. While the main park road is closed to vehicles, it often remains accessible for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a unique and peaceful way to experience the monument. Access is limited, and conditions can be extreme, so preparedness is key.
Cedar Breaks vs. Bryce Canyon: What's the Difference?
Bryce Canyon is significantly larger and has more developed infrastructure, including a longer scenic drive with numerous pull-offs and a wider range of hiking trails. Cedar Breaks, while offering its own beautiful trails like the Spectra Trail, is often considered a quicker stop or a perfect addition to a trip that includes Bryce. Think of Cedar Breaks as a more concentrated, serene version of the hoodoo spectacle.
Both are incredible natural wonders, but if you're seeking a less-trafficked experience with equally breathtaking, albeit on a slightly smaller scale, hoodoo formations, Cedar Breaks is an exceptional choice. It's a hidden gem that often surprises visitors with its beauty and tranquility.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit