Cedar Breaks National Monument Point Supreme
1 / 10

Cedar Breaks National Monument

4.8
·3k reviews·Brian Head, United States

A breathtaking high-elevation amphitheater in Utah, showcasing vibrant hoodoos and unique geological formations. A serene alternative to busier parks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Cedar Breaks National Monument Point Supreme

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Best Time

Summer mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking high-elevation amphitheater in Utah, showcasing vibrant hoodoos and unique geological formations. A serene alternative to busier parks.

4.8
(3k reviews)

"This place was so much more than what I expected to see here. It was such an unassuming drive... it just pops out of nowhere. Breathtaking."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Road Status First

High elevation means snow! Always check if roads are open before you go, especially spring/fall.

Sunrise is Magical

Catch the best light and fewer people. The colors are truly breathtaking.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Point Supreme Overlook

Point Supreme Overlook

Main viewpoint

Panoramic views of the amphitheater's vibrant hoodoos and unique geological formations.

Spectra Trail

Spectra Trail

South Rim Trail

A moderate 2-mile loop offering close-up views of the colorful badlands and ancient bristlecone pines.

North View Overlook

North View Overlook

North Rim

Offers a different perspective of the amphitheater, often less crowded than Point Supreme.

Winter Wonderland (Seasonal)

Winter Wonderland (Seasonal)

Entire park

When accessible, the snow-covered landscape transforms into a serene, otherworldly scene.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Cedar Breaks is a high-elevation park, meaning snow can linger into late spring. Check road conditions before you go, especially if visiting outside of peak summer. Many visitors find the fall foliage stunning, but be prepared for cooler temperatures.

Beat the Crowds

While less crowded than nearby Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks can still see visitor surges. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during summer, can offer a more peaceful experience. Consider visiting on a weekday if possible.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Stunning foliage, mild temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Honestly loving the new @K2 Skis revolve pro ski boots, heres my honest review on them #ski #skiing #k2 #skier #snow #winter #snowsports #extremesports #cedarsports #utah #brianhead #newproduct #skiboots #skiboot #boa #k2revolvepro
@jugslug
25K likes • 269.5K views

Check Road Status First

High elevation means snow! Always check if roads are open before you go, especially spring/fall. Instagram

Sunrise is Magical

Catch the best light and fewer people. The colors are truly breathtaking. Reddit

Here is everything you need to know if your planning a trip to brian head which you should. #brianheadskiresort #familyfriendly #familyadventure
@danimorin13
2.9K likes • 60K views
Would you believe this is southern Utah?🍂🍁 Utah State Route 14, in the vicinity of Brian Head and Cedar Breaks National Monument, is glowing right now. Once there on the Markagunt Plateau we drove around different forest roads, then to Cedar City, up to Brian Head and Cedar Breaks National Monument and then back down to the 14, making a loop. 🚙 Brian Head is about 7 hours from Phoenix 🍂 Aspens...
theazhikeaholics
421 likes • 9.3K views

Dress in Layers

Temperatures can change rapidly at over 10,000 feet. Be prepared for sun, wind, and chill. TikTok

Visitor Center Hours

The visitor center closes at 5 PM, but the park itself is open 24 hours for stargazing! Reddit

Cedar Breaks National Monument #capturingauthenticmoments #cedarbreaks #nationalmonuments #nationalparks #dreamon #aerosmith #aerosmithfans #hike #hikevibes #hikerlife #natureiscalling #natureadventure #adventurous #adventurelovers #adventureseeker #outdoorlife #outdooradventures #mindfullness #mindfulnesspractice #breathe #healingvibrations #healingenergy
naturehealsthe___
101 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Road Status First

High elevation means snow! Always check if roads are open before you go, especially spring/fall. Instagram

Sunrise is Magical

Catch the best light and fewer people. The colors are truly breathtaking. Reddit

Dress in Layers

Temperatures can change rapidly at over 10,000 feet. Be prepared for sun, wind, and chill. TikTok

Visitor Center Hours

The visitor center closes at 5 PM, but the park itself is open 24 hours for stargazing! Reddit

Bring Water & Snacks

Limited services inside the monument. Stay hydrated and fueled for your explorations. Reddit

Respect Wildlife & Plants

Stay on trails and don't feed animals. Drones and dogs are not permitted. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Cedar Breaks National Monument for its awe-inspiring, unique geological formations and breathtaking panoramic views, often comparing it favorably to Bryce Canyon for its tranquility and fewer crowds. Many highlight the stunning beauty, especially during sunrise and fall. Some note that while the visitor center has limited hours, the park itself is accessible 24/7, making it great for stargazing.

"This place is all inspiring. From the southern visitor Center just walk straight out and you are greeted with this massive landscape. You can see for miles and miles and the landscape is very unique. Take a moment and read the various information that's available at the visitor center as they are very helpful. The geological formation at this area is quite amazing. They are restrooms you can use and it's easily accessible from the parking lot. There are several viewpoints around this monument and I highly recommend you go to her the Northern viewpoint as it gives you a very different perspective. I think the best time to visit is doing sunrise and not sunset."

Tony W

"Nice place for a quick stop to see Bryce canyon NP-like views. The spectra trail was nice, but they also have an observation deck area that will give you equally nice views of you don't have time to walk the trail. The gift shop has reasonably priced shirts and sweatshirts. You're required to have your state park pass to enter this location but no one checks so you can basically just walk the trail and see the observation deck without having to show your park pass at all. As long as you don't go into the visitor center, you're good.

There is a clean bathroom at the parking lot."

Rachel Brower

"Out of the way but what an amazing stop. It was 80 degrees and felt like 68 with the breeze. Nice new visitors center, and incredible views. We didn’t have time to do any hikes this time, but have done them in the past and they provide more awesome views of the canyon and you pass some ancient trees. Worth the stop and worth going out of the way to visit. Our national park pass was good to get us in, so no extra charge!"

larry hall

What People Like

Unique hoodoo formations
Panoramic amphitheater views
Fewer crowds than Bryce

What People Dislike

Limited visitor center hours
Seasonal road closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cedar Breaks is located off Utah State Route 14, about 30 minutes east of Cedar City. It's also about an hour from Bryce Canyon National Park and a little over an hour from St. George. Many visitors stop here en route to Bryce. Instagram

The park roads are typically closed due to snow from late October/November until late May/June. However, the road may be cleared for hikers and bikers during the winter months. Always check current conditions. Instagram

Yes, the scenic drive along the rim offers multiple overlooks. The road is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October, weather permitting. Instagram

Cedar Breaks is part of the National Park System. While some reviews mention a state park pass or national park pass being accepted, it's best to check the official NPS website for current entrance fees or if your pass is valid. Reddit

The closest major airport is Las Vegas (LAS), about a 3-hour drive away. Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) is much closer but has limited flight options. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Cedar Breaks National Monument typically requires an entrance fee. However, some visitors have noted that passes like the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass are accepted, and sometimes checks are infrequent. It's always best to confirm current requirements on the official NPS website. Reddit

The monument itself is open 24 hours a day, year-round, weather permitting. The Visitor Center, however, has limited hours, typically closing at 5 PM. Reddit

Since Cedar Breaks is a natural monument with an entrance fee, tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival. There's no need to book far in advance unless there are specific ranger programs or events planned. Reddit

Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and children through various passes like the America the Beautiful Pass. Check the NPS website for details on passes and potential discounts. Reddit

Yes, the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is generally accepted at Cedar Breaks National Monument, as it is a unit of the National Park Service. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The Spectra Trail (2 miles roundtrip) is highly recommended for its close-up views of hoodoos and ancient trees. The South Rim Trail offers accessible viewpoints and connects to other trails. For a shorter walk, the paved path from Point Supreme is excellent. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The paved paths at overlooks are stroller-friendly, and the Spectra Trail is manageable for most families. The unique landscape is captivating for all ages. TikTok

You might spot mule deer, marmots, chipmunks, and various bird species. Keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife. Instagram

Cell service can be spotty to non-existent within the monument. It's a good idea to download offline maps and information before you arrive. Instagram

Dress in layers! Even in summer, temperatures can be cool due to the high elevation. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the trails. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Point Supreme and North View Overlook offer stunning panoramic shots of the amphitheater. The Spectra Trail provides opportunities for intimate shots of hoodoos and ancient trees. Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting. Instagram+1

No, drones are not permitted within Cedar Breaks National Monument to protect wildlife and the natural environment. Instagram

Yes! Being at a high elevation with minimal light pollution, Cedar Breaks is an excellent location for stargazing and astrophotography, especially when the park is open 24 hours. Reddit

Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the unique colors of the hoodoos are still impressive. Reddit

While official tours might be limited, local photography guides or groups sometimes offer excursions. It's worth checking local tourism boards or photography forums for opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cedar Breaks is a fantastic, family-friendly destination! The paved paths at overlooks like Point Supreme are perfect for strollers and little legs. The unique hoodoo formations are incredibly captivating for children, sparking their imagination. The Spectra Trail is a manageable 2-mile loop that offers a great introduction to hiking in the monument, with plenty of interesting sights along the way. TikTokInstagram

Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as services are limited. Dress in layers, as the high elevation can mean rapidly changing weather. The visitor center offers educational materials that can make the geological wonders even more engaging for kids. It's a wonderful place to introduce children to the grandeur of national monuments without the overwhelming crowds of some larger parks. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Cedar Breaks is an ideal stop for road trippers exploring southern Utah. Its location along Utah State Route 14 makes it an easy detour between Cedar City and Bryce Canyon National Park. You can experience the main viewpoints and even a short hike like the Spectra Trail in just a few hours, making it a perfect day trip or a scenic break on a longer journey. Instagram+1

Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by Cedar Breaks, finding it an 'unassuming drive' that 'pops out of nowhere' with 'breathtaking' views. It offers a similar geological spectacle to Bryce Canyon but with fewer crowds, providing a more relaxed and personal experience. It’s a great way to add another unique natural wonder to your itinerary without a significant time commitment. InstagramReddit

📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers

For photographers and nature enthusiasts, Cedar Breaks is a dream. The dramatic amphitheater, sculpted hoodoos, and vibrant colors offer endless photographic opportunities. Point Supreme and North View Overlook provide sweeping vistas, while the Spectra Trail allows for intimate shots of the unique rock formations and ancient bristlecone pines. Instagram+1

The high elevation (over 10,000 feet) means crisp air and stunningly clear skies, making it a prime spot for astrophotography after dark. Sunrise and sunset cast a magical glow over the landscape, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the rich hues of the rock. Visiting during the fall foliage season adds another layer of beauty with the contrasting colors of the trees. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology of Cedar Breaks

Cedar Breaks National Monument is a geological marvel, often described as a 'mini Bryce Canyon.' The massive amphitheater, over 3 miles wide and 1,000 feet deep, was carved by millions of years of erosion from water, ice, and wind acting on colorful layers of sedimentary rock. The most striking features are the hoodoos, tall, thin spires of rock that have been sculpted into fantastical shapes. These formations are composed of softer rock, with harder capstones protecting them from direct erosion, creating their unique, pillar-like appearance. The vibrant colors – reds, oranges, yellows, and purples – come from mineral deposits within the rock layers. Instagram

These ancient rock layers tell a story of a vastly different past. Millions of years ago, this area was covered by a shallow freshwater lake. As the lake receded and the land was uplifted, the forces of erosion began their work, slowly shaping the landscape into the breathtaking spectacle we see today. The bristlecone pines, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth, cling to the slopes, their gnarled forms a testament to their resilience in this harsh environment. Instagram

Understanding the geological processes behind Cedar Breaks enhances the visitor experience. It's a living museum of Earth's history, offering a profound connection to the natural forces that have shaped our planet. The sheer scale and intricate details of the formations are awe-inspiring, making it a must-see for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Instagram

Experiencing Cedar Breaks in Different Seasons

Cedar Breaks offers a distinct charm throughout its accessible seasons. From late May to mid-October, the park is typically open for scenic drives and hiking. Summer brings lush greenery and wildflowers, with pleasant temperatures for exploring the overlooks and trails. However, this is also the busiest time, so early mornings are recommended for a more serene visit. Instagram+1

Fall is a spectacular time to visit, with the aspen and fir trees along the rim turning vibrant shades of yellow and gold. The crisp air and cooler temperatures make hiking a delight. Visitors often report a magical experience with the fall foliage contrasting against the red rock formations. Instagram+2

Winter transforms Cedar Breaks into an otherworldly, snow-covered landscape. While the main park road is closed to vehicles, it often remains accessible for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a unique and peaceful way to experience the monument. Access is limited, and conditions can be extreme, so preparedness is key. Instagram+1

Cedar Breaks vs. Bryce Canyon: What's the Difference?

Many visitors compare Cedar Breaks National Monument to its more famous neighbor, Bryce Canyon National Park. While both feature stunning hoodoos and amphitheater-like formations, there are key distinctions. Cedar Breaks is generally less crowded and offers a more intimate, peaceful experience. Its elevation is higher, often leading to cooler temperatures even in summer. Instagram

Bryce Canyon is significantly larger and has more developed infrastructure, including a longer scenic drive with numerous pull-offs and a wider range of hiking trails. Cedar Breaks, while offering its own beautiful trails like the Spectra Trail, is often considered a quicker stop or a perfect addition to a trip that includes Bryce. Think of Cedar Breaks as a more concentrated, serene version of the hoodoo spectacle. InstagramReddit

Both are incredible natural wonders, but if you're seeking a less-trafficked experience with equally breathtaking, albeit on a slightly smaller scale, hoodoo formations, Cedar Breaks is an exceptional choice. It's a hidden gem that often surprises visitors with its beauty and tranquility. Instagram

You may also like