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Posted in Utah Nature March 18, 2019 by Catherine Armstrong

This Underrated Utah Trail Has The Most Spectacular Views

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.

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.

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.

The monument sits at 10,000-foot elevation, perched on the edge of a half-mile-deep amphitheater. It's truly spectacular!

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.

The trail is four miles out and back, and is considered moderately difficult, with elevation gains of around 830 feet.

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.

Your first stop along the trail is Spectra Point, about one mile down the path.

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.

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!

Another mile down the trail, and you'll reach The Ramparts Overlook. It's absolutely breathtaking, and definitely photo-worthy.

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.

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!

Utah is home to seven national monuments. Check out this list of all seven, and put them on your bucket list for this year.

Catherine Armstrong

Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.