Cedar Breaks National Monument wilderness guide
National Monument · UT

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Cedar Breaks National Monument is a stunning natural amphitheater known for its vibrant colored cliffs and high-altitude landscapes, appealing to hikers and nature enthusiasts.

National Monument6,1552+ Trails

Designation

National Monument

Total Wilderness Area

6,155

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cedar Breaks National Monument

Cedar Breaks National Monument is a stunning natural amphitheater known for its vibrant colored cliffs and high-altitude landscapes, appealing to hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cedar Breaks National Monument, located in southwestern Utah, is a geologic wonder characterized by a natural amphitheater that stretches over three miles wide and half a mile deep. The cliffs are composed of multicolored limestone, shale, and sandstone, creating vibrant reds, oranges, and purples. At over 10,000 feet in elevation, the monument is rich in subalpine meadows, pine and spruce forests, and wildflower displays, offering a habitat for diverse wildlife, including marmots and birds of prey. Created in 1933, Cedar Breaks preserves these unique geological features along with a history of Native American presence and later western exploration. Recreational opportunities include hiking along scenic trails, stargazing under clear night skies, and winter activities like snowshoeing. With its panoramic vistas and rural charm, Cedar Breaks is a cherished destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and solitude.

Field Guide · National Monument
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cedar Breaks National Monument

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Point Supreme, a breathtaking overlook offering views across the amphitheater✦ Alpine wildflower displays typically at their peak in July✦ Bristlecone Pine Trail, known for ancient pine trees✦ Winter snow sports including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cedar Breaks National Monument

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cedar Breaks National Monument
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cedar Breaks National Monument
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cedar Breaks National Monument
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cedar Breaks National Monument
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Cedar Breaks National Monument
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Cedar Breaks National Monument
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees apply, and Interagency Passes are accepted.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Cedar Breaks National Monument

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Cedar Breaks Campground

Located near the visitor center, offering easy access to trails and overlooks.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cedar Breaks National Monument

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Cedar City, Utah
⌖ 12.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cedar City, Utah

Cedar City is an adventure hub, perfect for hikers, bikers, and skiers. With access to Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks, and Dixie Forest, it’s ideal year-round for outdoor activities.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Duck Creek Village, Utah
⌖ 12.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Duck Creek Village, Utah

Duck Creek Village, Utah offers rugged mountain hiking, serene fishing spots, and winter snowmobiling on the Markagunt Plateau. This quiet town surrounded by national forest is perfect for those craving adventure with peace and pine-scented tranquility.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for snowmobiling and snow sports
Explore Town
Kanarraville, Utah
⌖ 19.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kanarraville, Utah

Kanarraville, Utah is a quiet desert town known for its stunning slot canyon hike through Kanarra Creek with waterfalls. It’s a perfect basecamp for hikers and backpackers seeking adventure in scenic southern Utah.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Glendale, Utah
⌖ 25.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glendale, Utah

Glendale, Utah, is a quiet desert town offering rugged hiking, horseback riding, and canyoneering in pristine red rock canyons. Ideal in spring and fall, it’s the perfect basecamp for adventure seekers craving solitude and sweeping landscapes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Orderville, Utah
⌖ 27.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Orderville, Utah

Orderville, Utah offers desert adventurers a quiet gateway to epic canyoneering, hiking, and mountain biking in the shadow of Zion. This small town’s redrock backdrop and nearby wilderness promise unforgettable trips under endless desert skies.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
New Harmony, Utah
⌖ 27.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

New Harmony, Utah

New Harmony, Utah offers an ideal retreat into red rock landscapes with hiking, biking, and climbing opportunities. Experience quiet trails, clear night skies, and the allure of Southern Utah's unspoiled nature.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cedar Breaks National Monument

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Ninety Minutes Across Brian Head’s Snowbound Backcountry
ADVEXPEDITION
Brian Head, Utah
SnowmobileADV Bookable

Ninety Minutes Across Brian Head’s Snowbound Backcountry

A 90-minute guided snowmobile tour from Thunder Mountain Motorsports that rides Brian Head into Dixie National Forest and the rim country of Cedar Breaks — an efficient introduction to the area’s high-elevation winter terrain.

SnowmobilePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip