Just a short drive from Brian Head, Cedar Breaks National Monument is one of southern Utah’s most spectacular — and least crowded — natural amphitheaters. If you’re staying in Brian Head this summer, it’s an easy half-day trip that’s well worth the detour.
What Makes Cedar Breaks Worth the Trip
Cedar Breaks is a natural amphitheater carved into the edge of the Markagunt Plateau, with layers of red, orange, and purple rock similar in color to Bryce Canyon, but with a fraction of the crowds. At over 10,000 feet elevation, the overlooks offer sweeping views and noticeably cooler temperatures than the valley floor.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is the prime season, when the monument’s high-elevation wildflower meadows are typically in bloom. Because Cedar Breaks sits at such high elevation, the road and visitor facilities are generally only fully open in the warmer months — check current conditions before you go.
Planning Your Day Trip
- Bring layers — temperatures at 10,000+ feet are much cooler than in town, even in July and August.
- Pack water and snacks, as services near the monument are limited.
- Combine it with a scenic drive; the roads leading to and from Cedar Breaks offer some of the best mountain views in the area.
Home Base for Your Adventure
After a day of sightseeing, head back to a comfortable base at Ridgeview Retreat or Holyoak Pines Cabin, both just minutes from Brian Head’s main attractions and a short drive from Cedar Breaks.
Browse our cabins or contact us to plan your summer trip.
