Cedar Breaks National Monument is one of the most under-appreciated national monuments in southern Utah. The red rocks and stunning views are breathtaking but are often overshadowed by nearby destinations like Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. While this national monument is absolutely beautiful, it’s not the only reason to venture here. The scenic drive to this area is almost just as beautiful. In fact, it may become one of your favorite scenic byways in Utah.

Cedar Breaks National Monument sits at 10,000 feet in elevation. From the viewpoints, you will look down nearly 0.5 miles into a remarkable amphitheater of red rocks, cliffs, trees, and more.
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The Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway, also known as State Route 148, takes you right to the visitor center at this national monument. This scenic drive is only nine miles long, but every mile is stunning.
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As you drive, you’ll travel a few miles through thick forests and mountain views.
Then, once you enter the national monument, you will continue for several miles on a National Park Service-maintained road. Along this route, you’ll come to several overlooks where you can enjoy the Cedar Breaks amphitheater.
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The Cedar Breaks Amphitheater isn’t small. In fact, this incredible natural wonder is three miles long and it’s breathtaking.
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One of our favorite times to visit this national monument is during a sunset. The views here never get old.
Along the Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway, you’ll also pass several trailheads that will take you to even more incredible views of the national monument.
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Check out the Alpine Pond Loop Trail, which is a unique figure-eight loop trail where you’ll see forests, meadows, and the Alpine Pond. This trail is moderate in difficulty and one or two-mile options are available.
In the fall, this is also a beautiful drive if you want to surround yourself with a sea of vibrant gold, red, and orange leaves. Plus, with the red rocks in the area, it is a view you will not want to miss.
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Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway may be one of the most underrated scenic drives in Utah but it is one we strongly recommend. It is hard not to fall in love with this area of the state as you travel along this road.
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Be aware that Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway closes during the winter month, although you can still explore this route on a snowmobile if there is enough snow. For more information on Cedar Breaks National Monument, including current road conditions, hikes, camping, drives, and more, visit the National Park Service website.

Have you been to Cedar Breaks National Monument in southern Utah? Did you drive the Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway in its entirety? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share any photos with us as well!

If you searching for another beautiful scenic drive in Utah that deserves a spot on your bucket list, check out our list of nine backroads in Utah that are perfect for a long scenic drive.

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Cedar Breaks National Monument, UT-143, Brian Head, UT 84719, USA