June 17, 2024
A one-of-a-kind and otherworldly experience begins the moment one steps foot in Cedar Breaks National Monument. With so many sights to see, places to explore, and activities to partake in, visitors can get overwhelmed.
Cedar Breaks National Monument South Rim Trail Courtesy: National Park Service
A one-of-a-kind and otherworldly experience begins the moment one steps foot in Cedar Breaks National Monument. With so many sights to see, places to explore, and activities to partake in, visitors can get overwhelmed. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Cedar Breaks National Monument, the “Circle of Painted Cliffs.”
Brian Head Resort
Only a couple miles away from Cedar Breaks sits Brian Head Resort, offering year round outdoor experiences and activities in a breathtaking setting. Summer activities at the resort include hiking, mountain biking, scenic lift rides, avalanche tubing, a rock climbing wall, zipline, bungee trampoline, and disc golf. In the winter, ski or board one of the state’ premier ski resorts. Surrounding Cross Country Ski trails are groomed throughout the winter as well.
Directions: 13.4 miles south on State Route 143, about a 21 minute drive. Address: 329 UT-143, Brian Head, UT 84719
Dark Night Skies
Located at more than 10,000 feet above sea level, Cedar Breaks is one of the most ideal sites for stargazing in Utah, and is a protected Dark Night Sky park. Experience the magic on a moonlight hike, or by stopping at one of the many overlooks open year round.
Directions: 16.9 miles south on State Route 143, about a 26 minute drive. Address: Cedar Breaks National Monument, Brian Head, UT.
Thunder Mtn. Motorsports
For an exhilarating way to experience Cedar Breaks and surrounding areas like Dixie National Forest and the backcountry of Brian Head, take a snowmobile tour with Thunder Mtn. Motorsports.
Directions: 13.1 miles south on State Route 143, about a 20 minute drive. Address: 539 UT-143, Brian Head, UT 84719
Guided ATV Tours
For another thrilling way to experience surrounding areas, book a guided ATV tour with Ruby’s ATV tours at Ruby’s Inn.Contact the Ruby’s Inn Activities Center for more information at 435-834-8032.
Directions: 71.6 miles on State Route 20, through Panguitch, to Bryce Canyon City. Address: 26 South Main Street, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764.
Dine
Indulge in the area’s quaint, cozy, and American-style cafes and restaurants including Cedar Breaks Cafe, Cedar Breaks Bar and Grill at the Cedar Breaks Lodge and Mountain Peak Cafe at Brian Head Resort.
Directions:
- Cedar Breaks Cafe: 13.2 miles south on State Route 143, about a 20 minute drive. Address: Cedar Breaks Lodge, 223 W Hunter Rdg Dr, Brian Head, UT 84719.
- Cedar Breaks Bar and Grill at the Cedar Breaks Lodge: Cedar Breaks Lodge, 223 W Hunter Rdg Dr, Brian Head, UT 84719
- Mountain Peak Cafe at Brian Head Resort: 14.1 miles south on State Route 143, about a 22 minute drive. Address: Mountain Peak Coffee, 259 Village Way, Brian Head, UT 84719.
Panguitch Lake
For good fishing, watersports, and beautiful scenery, visit Panguitch Lake, about 20 minutes outside of Cedar Breaks.
Directions: 32.1 miles south on State Route 143, about a 46 minute drive. Panguitch Lake, Utah 84759
Unique Trees
Cedar Breaks is home to many unique things, including the Bristlecone Pines and Ponderosa Pines. The Bristlecone Pines are one of the oldest tree species in the world. Visit the park and surrounding natural areas to catch a glimpse.
Alpine Pond Nature Trail
A moderate loop trail through meadows, forests, ancient volcanic debris, the Alpine Pond, and with a view of the amphitheater.
Directions: 19.8 miles south on State Route 143, about a 31 minute drive. Address: Alpine Pond Loop Trail, Brian Head, UT 84719.
South Rim Trail
A “moderately strenuous” five mile trail with 360 degree views and three iconic viewpoints.
Directions: Located in the park of Cedar Breaks National Monument. Address: 16.9 miles south on State Route 143, about a 26 minute drive.
Sunset Trail
An easy, accessible, two mile paved trail between the Point Supreme Overlook and Sunset View Overlook. Leashed pets are only allowed on this trail.
Directions: Located in the park of Cedar Breaks National Monument. Address: 16.9 miles south on State Route 143, about a 26 minute drive.
Article by Maya MacKinnon
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