You are here

Home » Cedar Breaks National Monument: An Inviting Summer Destination

Cedar Breaks National Monument: An Inviting Summer Destination

Share

Published Date

May 12, 2014
Alternate Text
Bristlecone pine atop Cedar Breaks National Monument./Patrick Cone

Editor's note: As some keen readers have discerned, the original photo that was attached to this story was not taken in Cedar Breaks National Monument, but rather at nearby Bryce Canyon National Park. Monument officials sheepishly acknowledged to us that they had somehow gotten Bryce Canyon shots labeled as their amphitheater posted on their website's photo gallery. So, in place of the original photo we offer this Patrick Cone photo of a bristlecone pine on the lip of the monument's amphitheater.

Stunning crimson and brilliant golden sandstone formations paint a truly unique landscape in any season.

Cedar Breaks National Monument in Utah is home to such spectacular views within a three-mile wide, half-mile deep natural amphitheater. Visitors are welcome to experience a variety of activities available within the park. Warm summer months sweep hiking trails with vibrant wildflowers from late June through August.

Cedar Breaks celebrates this colorful show by hosting the annual Wildflower Festival, scheduled this year for July 5-20. Sightseers are encouraged to join park specialists daily on guided hikes exploring the variety of wildflowers, or snag a 'œWhat'™s In Bloom' handout for a self-guided tour. Stroll along the Alpine Pond Nature Trail, a two-mile loop with wildflower meadows, lush forest grounds and breathtaking views of the amphitheater. The spring-fed Alpine Pond stands as the halfway mark in the loop and a charming spot for visitors to soak in the surrounding wildlife.

For those looking for a more strenuous hike, the four-mile round-trip Spectra Point/Ramparts Overlook Trail meanders along the rim of the amphitheater. At 10,500 feet, every turn offers an unforgettable view. Hikers can spot the oldest known bristlecone pine here, rumored to be over 1,600 years old.

The fun doesn'™t have to stop at dusk; Cedar Breaks has one of the darkest night skies in the country due to its high elevation and remote location, making it the perfect spot for Star Parties. Join the star experts for a free evening of galaxy gazing every Saturday beginning in July and running through August.

Weather can rapidly change in the park regardless of the season, so come prepared for the seasonal and evening temperature changes.

Cedar Breaks offers activities for any season, from roaming through fields of blossoming wildflowers and hiking against the brilliant colors of fall to exploring a snowcapped winter playground. This national monument is a natural wonder and a beautiful park to experience all year long. For more information, visit the park's website. Come join in the fun!

This article was assembled by Carli Jones, a Traveler intern, using material provided by the National Park Service. A Utah native, Carli grew up exploring the outdoors on family outings, weekend camping trips, and hiking in Zion and beyond. She is a student at the University of Utah studying communication and nutrition. During her spare time she cycles, hikes, rock climbs and snowboards.

Story Categories:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Comments

Submitted by KevinM on May 12, 2014 - 2:41pm.

The picture sure looks like Rainbow Point in Bryce.


Submitted by MSaemisch on May 16, 2014 - 3:58pm.

The picture is not from Cedar Breaks National Monument and looks like Bryce Canyon National Park, as KevenM suggested. The Cedar City - Brian Head Tourism bureau can provide you shots of the Cedar Breaks amphitheater.


Add comment

CAPTCHA

This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.

Your urgent support helps the National Parks Traveler increase awareness of the wonders and issues confronting national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.