Cedar Breaks National Monument: Utah's Underrated Natural Wonder

Just 30 minutes from Brian Head, Cedar Breaks National Monument protects a spectacular natural amphitheater more than 2,000 feet deep and over three miles wide. Often called "the mini Grand Canyon," Cedar Breaks features the same layers of colorful limestone formations but with a fraction of the crowds — making it perfect for families who want to experience Utah's geological wonders in peace.

What Makes Cedar Breaks Special

The amphitheater at Cedar Breaks showcases rock layers in shades of red, orange, yellow, white, and purple that change color throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky. The formations are similar to those at Bryce Canyon but seen from above rather than below, offering a dramatically different perspective. At over 10,000 feet elevation, the air is crisp and the views extend for over 100 miles on clear days.

Visiting Cedar Breaks with Kids

The Rim Drive connects four stunning viewpoints: Point Supreme, Sunset View, North View, and Chessman Ridge Overlook. Each has short, paved walks to viewing platforms that are accessible for all ages and abilities. The Alpine Pond Trail is a gentle two-mile loop through wildflower meadows and ancient bristlecone pine forests that kids enjoy for its variety and manageable length.

Wildflower Season

Visit in July and August for one of the most spectacular wildflower displays in Utah. The subalpine meadows explode with color — lupines, Indian paintbrush, columbine, and dozens of other species create a natural garden that stretches to the horizon. It's a photography paradise and a wonderful educational opportunity for kids learning about mountain ecosystems.

Stargazing at Cedar Breaks

Cedar Breaks is an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the darkest skies in the United States. On clear nights, the Milky Way is visible in stunning detail, and meteor showers are spectacular. The park hosts star parties during summer months with telescopes and ranger-led programs. Time your visit around a new moon for the darkest skies and best celestial viewing.

Cedar Breaks is one of those rare destinations that's easy to visit, relatively uncrowded, and absolutely breathtaking. Stay at one of our Brian Head cabins — Cabin Cedar, Cabin Birchwood, or Cabin Aspen — and you're just a short drive from this natural wonder.