Bryce Canyon National Park is one of Utah’s most celebrated gems, but did you know that there’s a lesser-known park that’s every bit as beautiful…and it has way fewer visitors? Cedar Breaks National Monument is absolutely stunning, and the best way to get a close-up view of its beauty is by hiking the Ramparts Overlook Trail.
Cedar Breaks National Monument covers an area of 6,155 acres, and most of it is an incredible amphitheater full of hoodoos. It’s similar to Bryce Canyon National Park, but instead of millions of visitors, this monument only receives a few hundred thousand every year.
FancyFree55/Tripadvisor
The monument sits at 10,000-foot elevation, perched on the edge of a half-mile-deep amphitheater. It’s truly spectacular!
Robert Shea/flickr
There are just two trails at this park. The Spectra Point/Ramparts Trail is the one to take if you’re looking for picturesque views.
Thomas E/Tripadvisor
The trail is four miles out and back, and is considered moderately difficult, with elevation gains of around 830 feet.
Jennifer Nelson/Alltrails
If you pay attention, you’re certain to spot some wildlife along the way. Watch for chipmunks, squirrels, and mule deer. Scan the skies above to catch sight of red-tailed haws, too.
CrankingChick/Tripadvisor
Your first stop along the trail is Spectra Point, about one mile down the path.
Sally T/Tripadvisor
You’ll see views of the amphitheater even before you reach Spectra Point, and once you reach the point, the view opens up to a stunning vista.
Thomas Jundt/flickr
Keep a lookout for the bristlecone pines that inhabit this area. These twisted, gnarled trees are much hardier than they look, and some are 1,600 years old!
J. Stephen Conn/flickr
Another mile down the trail, and you’ll reach The Ramparts Overlook. It’s absolutely breathtaking, and definitely photo-worthy.
Thomas Jundt/flickr
Just because the bristlecone pines dare to reach right over the edge of the cliff doesn’t mean you should. Stay back from the edge - the exposed cliffs can crumble underneath your feet.
Johnny Lovesjazz/Google
You’ll find Cedar Breaks National Monument just three miles south of Brian Head. The park is open year-round.
Have you hiked the Ramparts Overlook Trail? Give our readers your tips for this hike in the comments!
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Robert Shea/flickr
Thomas E/Tripadvisor
Jennifer Nelson/Alltrails
CrankingChick/Tripadvisor
Sally T/Tripadvisor
Thomas Jundt/flickr
J. Stephen Conn/flickr
Johnny Lovesjazz/Google
Utah is home to seven national monuments. Check out this list of all seven, and put them on your bucket list for this year.
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