Cedar Breaks National Monument

Below the amphitheater's 10,000-foot rim the slopes fall sharply away in ragged walls, spires, columns and arches tinted shades of red, yellow and purple by the manganese and iron oxides in the rock. Bristlecone pines, among the oldest plants on Earth, cling to the windswept ridges above the rim. Hiking trails can be found around the rim.

In summer the meadows and slopes are resplendent with wildflowers. The area also is a wildlife habitat; mule deer often can be seen grazing in the meadows in the early morning or evening. A self-guiding trail leads from the Chessman Meadow parking area to Alpine Pond, a good spot to take in the view. Guided tours of the Spectra Point and Alpine Pond trails depart from their respective trailheads Saturdays and Sundays during the summer months (when staffing permits); phone ahead for tour times.

A visitor center 1 mile from the south entrance is open daily 9-6, late May to mid-Oct. Camping and picnic facilities are near Point Supreme. The high season is early June-late Oct. (weather permitting). The road may be closed due to snow, rest of year; phone (435) 586-9451 to check conditions.

Admission (valid for 7 consecutive days) is $7 (per person arriving by car, motorcycle, bicycle or foot); free (ages 0-15).

For further information contact the Superintendent, Cedar Breaks National Monument, 2390 W. SR 56, Suite 11, Cedar City, UT 84720-4151; phone (435) 586-0787.