Ultimate Hiking Guide: Cedar Breaks National Monument
Cedar Breaks is like a mini Bryce Canyon. It’s an amphitheater type of canyon with hoodoos and other unique rock formations, and with less crowds!
Even after having already visited Bryce Canyon, I was blown away by the beauty of Cedar Breaks. Hiking here is much quieter than the nearby national parks, making it a more relaxing experience. The sunset here is absolutely gorgeous, and the night sky is full of glistening stars.Â
The rangers even offer dark sky tours, so you can learn about the incredible astronomical features that can be seen from Cedar Breaks.
Getting There
from the west
If you are traveling from the direction of Las Vegas, this is a perfect pitstop on the way to Bryce Canyon or Capitol Reef National Parks. Just hop off I-15 and follow highway 14 east to 148, which leads to the monument. Then you can continue on 14Â to the national parks. Cedar Breaks is a perfect day trip if you are coming from Cedar City, which is only about 30 minutes away.
from the east
If you are coming from the Panguitch/Bryce Canyon area, take highway 12 westward, to 143, then turn on 148 south, which is the road that goes along the canyon. Each of these routes are very scenic, winding through mountains and pine trees.
Note: Parts of highways 14 and 148 may close in the winter due to harsh weather conditions.
Best time to visit
The park is open year round, but due to snow during the winter months, it may close. You can check for closure updates on the national park service website before you plan your trip. My favorite time to visit is September when there are less crowds, and the aspen trees are gold. The summer months are great too, the temperatures don’t get extreme at such a high elevation, averaging at about 68 degrees for the high. Â
fees
A standard entrance pass is $10 per person, and can be purchased at the visitor center. Only debit and credit is accepted, no cash or check. The America the Beautiful pass is also accepted here. Annual passes are also available for $35, and will give you access for 12 months from the date of purchaseÂ
Hiking Trails
1. alpine pond loop
At the middle section of the rim, this easy 2.2 mile loop will take you through the pine trees and to a quiet little lake with crystal clear water. There isn’t much of a view of the canyon, but it’s different than the other hikes at Cedar Breaks.
Length: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: easy
Elevation gain: 196 ft.
Estimated time: 45 mins – 1 hour
Family Friendly? Yes!
Dogs? No, for their own protection, and the protection of local plants and animals.
2. sunset trail
This is a popular out and back paved trail that follows the rim of the canyon from one lookout spot to another. You can start from either location, and take in the views as you hike. Also, as the name implies, it’s a great trail to watch the sunset from!
Length: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: easy
Elevation gain: 160 ft.
Estimated time: 45mins – 1 hour
Family Friendly? Yes!
Dogs? Yes! Dogs are welcome on paved trails
3. bartizan arch
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, this one’s for you. This out and back trail follows the southern part of the rim to this double arch rock formation, with a variety of views throughout. Hike along the rim, through the forest, and see mountains in the distance.
Length: 5.0 miles
Difficulty: moderate
Elevation gain: 1,138
Estimated time: 1 hour 45 mins – 2 hours
Family Friendly? significant elevation gain may be difficult for children
Dogs? No, for their own protection, and the protection of local plants and animals
Dogs? Yes! Dogs are welcome on paved trails
4. spectra point
This rim trail follows the same trail as the Bartizan arch, but it goes 1 mile out to an amazing lookout point called Spectra Point. This section of the trail is easier, with less elevation gain than going all the way to the arch.
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: easy
Elevation gain: 393 ft.
Estimated time: 1 hour – 1 hour 20 mins
Family friendly? Yes!
Dogs? No, for their own protection, and the protection of local plants and animals.
Cedar Breaks has amazing hikes for those of all abilities. It is 100% worth adding to your roadtrip itinerary, or going for a day trip.
All of the trailheads are easily accessible, and the trails are very well maintained. This area is also well known for the dark skies, if you are interested in stargazing. It’s a great activity to do in the summer. Set up a sunset picnic and hang around for the stars to come out. If you do decide to take a trip out here, I hope you enjoy the natural beauty of this park!
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