Shayla B.
Yelp
I feel like I'm running out of words to describe the beauty in nature. Okay, how about this: Astonishing! Is that too cheesy?! I just feel like saying beautiful, amazing, gorgeous, and stunning probably aren't even enough to truly describe Cedar Break National Monument. It's all of that and so much more.
I can't believe that I was planning on shortchanging this monument! I'm so glad that the park ranger talked me into spending my day here because a few hours really isn't enough time, even with the park being on the smaller side.
Cedar Breaks National Monument is just a short 30 minute drive outside of Cedar City, but it's located 10,000 feet above sea level. It's a natural amphitheater comprised of thousands of multicolored hoodoos and unique rock formations. The park itself is quite small and many of its' popular trails and landmarks can be seen in a day or two. But there's lots to explore and people often camp here too.
I did a 4 mile out and back hike down to Lampart's Overlook and enjoyed every single second of it. It felt like I was looking at a painting with each and every turn, except this was real life. It just doesn't even seem real. The fact that there's an amphitheater of natural hoodoos like this just blows my mind. It's truly exceptional and I just couldn't take my eyes off this beauty.
The hike to Lampart's Overlook starts out near the information center (you'll see a sign that says Trailhead Spectra Point Lampart's Overlook). The trail starts off with an insane view of the amphitheater. In my mind I was thinking: Can it even get better than this?! Oh, but it does. The trail begins to gently incline around the perimeter of the canyon while casting some terrific angle views of the amphitheater.
Soon, you'll find yourself immersed within a vibrant bristlecone pine tree forest amongst colorful wildflowers and the cutest little squirrels and chipmunks. The forest will then open up the first mile marker known as Spectra Point which will afford you sweeping views of the hoodoo canyon and Dixie National Forest. Get your camera ready! Most people who visit the park will stop here and then turn around for a short but sweet 2 mile hike. I decided to make it worth my while and hike down Lampart's Outlook because... well, why not?!
The hike will begin to decline rapidly back down into the forest along a few switchbacks and a narrow pathway until you reach Lampart's Overlook. Here, you'll feel like you're literally right next to the hoodoos. I was up and close and personal and it felt amazing. Took a lunch break at this point while enjoying the view, and then headed back up to the parking lot. The hike back up is much more challenging on the way back.
If you're not into hiking or if you want to add some scenic stops to your visit, take the 8 mile drive throughout the part and stop at the 3 major vista points along the road (Sunset View, Chessman Ridge, and North View). Each vista point gives way to a different but equally stunning view of the amphitheater. I personally enjoyed the view from the Sunset View Overlook the most because it allows you to see right into the bottom crevices of the canyon. Just gorgeous views all around this park. You really can't lose. There's also a loop trail that circles the Alpine Pond, but I was short on time couldn't explore it this time around.
Restrooms are located near the entrance of the park behind the information center, and there's a small gift shop as well. The rangers are super informative and friendly here. It's $10 to visit if you don't have a pass (make sure you to show your pass to the park ranger at the information center). The park ranger will also provide you with a map and suggestions for hikes and/or activities.
One thing to note is that if you aren't used to the elevation gain, you may find it harder to breathe. I literally felt like I was gasping for air while just walking during some points. Just take your time and enjoy the park. Because it's so high above sea level, it tends to stay cooler. It was around low to mid 70's when I went in early August which was perfect. Would recommend to dress in layers but still bring sunscreen and of course water because the sun will still be out.
I'm so glad that I added Cedar Breaks to my list of places to visit while I was in Utah. I would definitely come back again to explore the rest of the park that I didn't get a chance to see.