How mild was this past winter in Utah? Mild enough that Cedar Breaks National Monument will be able to open its visitor services in time for Memorial Day Weekend.

“It was a very mild winter and, for the first time in a number of years, we’ll be able to make our traditional Memorial Day weekend opening,” said Superintenent Paul Roelandt said. “We invite visitors to come up and enjoy the visitor center exhibits, ranger programs, and views along the scenic drive.

Although the snow is melting rapidly, visitors should be aware and cautious of icy and snowy conditions when walking at the scenic overlooks. Trails are snow covered or very muddy, so hikers should exercise caution as well.

The Visitor Center will open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and ranger programs will be offered throughout the day. The Point Supreme Campground will open on Friday, June 8.

The park entrance fee for recreational use of the monument is $4 per person aged 16 or older; the fee can be paid at the fee station as you enter the Visitor Center/Point Supreme Overlook area. The Cedar Breaks Annual Pass, Interagency Annual and Senior Passes may also be purchased at the fee station. These passes are also available for purchase at the park’s administrative office in Cedar City and at the Iron County Visitor Center, 581 North Main, Cedar City, Utah.

Local residents who come to the park frequently are encouraged to consider purchasing the Cedar Breaks Annual Pass. “It’s a terrific bargain at $20,” said Trevor Lopez, fee program lead. “The pass is good for one year from the month of purchase and allows you and up to three others per visit to enjoy the park.”

As is the case every year when Cedar Breaks opens, weight restrictions will be in place prohibiting vehicles over 26,000 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) from using the road through the park. “Signs are in place on all the approaches to Cedar Breaks alerting drivers to the fact that the Cedar Breaks road is closed to all traffic exceeding 26,000 GVWR because of the damage heavy vehicles cause to the road,” said Chief Ranger Matthew Harrison.

Questions regarding the status of the Cedar Breaks Scenic Drive and park activities may be directed to the park’s headquarters office in Cedar City at (435) 586-9451. Once the park facilities open, visitors can call the park Visitor Center directly at 435-586-0787 to inquire about park activities and recreational opportunities or check the Cedar Breaks' website.