A spectacular geologic amphitheater crowns the Grand Staircase at over 10,000 feet elevation in southwestern Utah. Cedar Breaks National Monument is a subalpine paradise of colorful rock formations, bristlecone pines, wildflower meadows, and some of the darkest night skies in America. Visitors can hike, stargaze, and immerse themselves in a high-altitude wonderland that blends geology, ecology, and pristine wilderness.

Cedar Breaks National Monument is a stunning 3-mile-wide, half-mile-deep amphitheater carved in colorful Claron Formation rock. The park is home to ancient bristlecone pines, vibrant wildflowers, and star-filled night skies, offering alpine hiking and wilderness experiences above 10,000 feet. Access is seasonal due to winter snow.

Overview

Cedar Breaks National Monument protects a vast geologic amphitheater lined with rhyolite pinnacles, hoodoos, and multicolored rock cliffs. At 10,000+ feet elevation, its scenery rivals Bryce Canyon, yet the environment is distinctly subalpine, featuring ancient bristlecone pines and lush flower meadows. The monument was established to preserve these unique formations, high-elevation ecosystems, and dark night skies.

The amphitheater is approximately 3 miles across and half a mile deep, showcasing spectacular erosional rock formations formed over millions of years.
The monument sits atop the Grand Staircase and offers panoramic views, alpine trails, and access to remote wilderness areas.
Its high elevation means cooler temperatures year-round, with heavy snowfall closing access in winter months .

Geology

The amphitheater is carved primarily from the Claron Formation, the same colorful limestone that forms Bryce Canyon's hoodoos.

Over 10,000 years of erosional forces—including frost-wedging, rain, and snowmelt—have sculpted the dramatic spires, pinnacles, and natural amphitheater walls.
Volcanic activity from nearby eruptions deposited thick layers of rhyolite and tuff, which cap and protect some of the rock layers, influencing erosion patterns.
The monument’s geology tells a story of ancient lakes, volcanic activity, and persistent erosion shaping the high plateau landscape .

Ecology

Cedar Breaks is a subalpine ecosystem characterized by:

Ancient bristlecone pines—some over 3,000 years old—clinging to rocky slopes and ridges.
Expansive meadows bursting with hundreds of wildflower species each summer, including Indian paintbrush, penstemon, and asters.
Wildlife adapted to high elevations, including mule deer, marmots, and numerous bird species such as Clark’s nutcracker and mountain bluebird .

History and Culture

While the deeper human history is still being studied, the region was traditionally part of the lands traversed by the Southern Paiute people. Euro-American settlers and miners later explored the area, and it was eventually set aside as a national monument to protect its unique geology and ecology.

The monument was established in 1933 to preserve its scenic amphitheater and high-elevation ecosystems.
Ranger-led programs and interpretive signage offer insights into its natural and cultural history during the visitor season .

Plan Your Visit

Cedar Breaks National Monument offers immersive high-country experiences with dramatic scenery, hiking trails, and star parties. The park is seasonally accessible, generally from late spring through fall, depending on snow conditions.

Visitor Center

The Visitor Center provides orientation, exhibits, and information on hiking, geology, and seasonal activities.

Located near the main amphitheater overlooks, it is the starting point for many hikes.
Rangers are available for questions, and educational displays introduce the park’s geology and ecology.
The center is typically open during the main visitation season, from late spring to fall, weather permitting .

Scenic Drives and Overlooks

The monument features scenic drives with overlooks that provide breathtaking views of the amphitheater and surrounding high country.

Scenic Drive: A paved drive along the rim offers access to multiple viewpoints including Sunset View, Inspiration Point, and Spectra Vista.
Each overlook provides a unique angle on the colorful rock formations, twisted bristlecone pines, and flower-filled basins below .

Hiking

Visitors can explore a variety of trails ranging from easy strolls to strenuous backcountry hikes through the amphitheater and into surrounding wilderness.

Point Supreme Trail: A 1-mile loop giving a close-up view of the amphitheater’s rock formations and plant life.
Pole Canyon/Herbert Peak Loop: A 3.5-mile moderate hike descending into the amphitheater and climbing back along ridges with panoramic views.
Spectra Point and Sunset Point: These are connected by a 2.5-mile (round trip) unmaintained trail that provides stunning hoodoo views from within the amphitheater.
Remote backcountry routes allow for deeper exploration and are accessible to experienced hikers. Permits are required for off-trail wilderness travel in some areas .

Camping and Lodging

While there are no campgrounds within the monument, nearby areas and communities offer camping and lodging.

The Cedar Breaks Campground (operational when open) provides tent camping—reservations recommended.
Lodging can be found in Cedar City, approximately 25 miles away, with a variety of hotels and motels.
The monument’s high elevation means camping is only safe and accessible in the warmer months; snow can close facilities in winter .

Stargazing and Ranger Programs

Cedar Breaks is renowned for its dark skies and hosts ranger-led stargazing events during the summer.

The high elevation and remote location provide some of the clearest night skies in the country.
Telescope programs introduce visitors to constellations, planets, and deep space objects.
Seasonal ranger programs include geology talks, wildflower walks, and guided hikes .

Access and Seasons

The monument is generally open year-round, but the main access road (Highway 148) closes in winter due to snow, typically from October through May.

Visitors should check current conditions before traveling, especially in shoulder seasons.
Many trails and facilities are seasonal, opening when the snow melts in late spring or early summer .

Animals

Bristlecone Pine (Pinus longaeva)

The ancient bristlecone pines of Cedar Breaks are among the oldest living organisms on Earth, with some trees exceeding 3,000 years in age. These resilient pines grow in harsh, rocky soils and are a signature feature of the monument’s high-elevation landscape.

Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)

Mule deer are commonly seen grazing in the meadows and forests of Cedar Breaks. Adapted to mountainous terrain, they are most active during dawn and dusk and play a vital role in the monument’s ecosystem.

Clark’s Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana)

Clark’s nutcrackers are intelligent, resourceful birds that thrive in high-elevation pine forests. They have a symbiotic relationship with bristlecone pines, helping to disperse seeds and ensure the survival of these ancient trees.

Plants

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja spp.)

Indian paintbrushes are vibrant wildflowers that color the meadows of Cedar Breaks each summer. These semi-parasitic plants draw nutrients from nearby grasses and contribute to the region’s spectacular floral displays.

Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)

Penstemons are abundant throughout the monument, showcasing tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, and blue. They attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds and thrive in the subalpine meadows and rocky slopes.

Aster (Aster spp.)

Asters dot the flower fields of Cedar Breaks with their cheerful, daisy-like blossoms. Blooming late in the summer, they add to the diversity and beauty of the monument’s wildflower extravaganza.

Additional Resources

Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Last updated: Sat Jun 7, 2025

National Monuments

Cedar Breaks National Monument