Summary:
A rim trail leading to spectacular viewpoints of colored sandstone formations and canyons carved into the Cedar Breaks amphitheater.

After following the canyon rim for 0.5 mile, the trail curves to the right and a short spur takes you along a ridge and past a stand of bristlecone pine to Spectre Point. From here you have great views into the canyons that make up the Cedar Breaks amphitheater.

Return to the trail and continue along the rim, descending 300 ft or so via switchbacks. Once the trail straightens, another 0.5 mile will take you to a second magnificent viewpoint. Take your time, soak up the views, then retrace your steps back to your starting point.

If you feel like some more hiking, drive further along the scenic road to the Chessman Ridge overlook. Here is the trailhead for the 2-mile Alpine Pond Loop Trail, which, as its name suggests, leads through meadows and forest to a small pond.

Directions: From Cedar City, take Route 14 for 18 miles, then north on Route 148 for 4 miles to the south entrance. Alternatively, you can enter the National Monument from the north along Route 143.

Trailhead: Visitor center parking lot, 1 mile from the south entrance.

Length: 3 miles / 4.8 km

Trail Type: Out and back

Elevation Change: -400 ft / -122 m
Ascent on return.

Duration: 2 hours

Trail Condition: Clearly defined.

Features: Canyon views, sandstone hoodoos.

Climate: Deep snow in winter – the road through Cedar Breaks is usually closed from mid-October to end of May.

Accommodation: Camping available in the National Monument from June to mid-September. There are other campsites within the surrounding Dixie National Forest. Plenty of motels in Cedar City, and lodging also available just north of Cedar Breaks in Brian Head town.

Trail Notes: Be aware of high altitude – Cedar Breaks is more than 10,000 ft above sea level.