UDOT clears the way for Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway, Rim Road to open for summer season

The Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway and Rim Road are now open for the 2023 summer season | Photo courtesy of the National Park Service, St. George News

CEDAR CITY — Visitors to Cedar Breaks National Monument will now find clear roads but are reminded to remain cautious as snow and ice patches still cover paths and overlooks.

In this file photo, snow covers the scenery at Cedar Breaks National Monument | Photo courtesy of the National Park Service, St. George News

“After a very busy and plentiful winter season, the roads to and through Cedar Breaks National Monument are open thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Utah Department of Transportation crews,” a Thursday news release from the National Park Service said. “Visitors should be very cautious when visiting the park … trails remain buried beneath snow and fallen trees; park crews will clear these trails as soon as possible.

Summer visitor services at the Temporary Information Center, including the Zion Forever Project park store, will begin on Friday, June 16.

In 2021, construction began on the new Cedar Breaks Visitor Contact Station. This facility will serve an increasing number of visitors to the park through an expanded indoor contact space, exhibits and park store, new restroom facility, and sheltered outdoor space for public programming, the news release said

The visitor contact station is part of the Centennial Challenge initiative, which leverages public-private partnerships to fund major improvements within the national park system. Private fundraising was spearheaded by Zion Forever Project, the official philanthropic partner of the park.

During construction, expected to continue through 2023, the Point Supreme Overlook is closed to all public access. A portion of the parking lot has been closed for construction activities, though a limited number of spots remain at the South Rim Trailhead. Overflow parking is available at the Temporary Information Center across the street.

Established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933, Cedar Breaks National Monument preserves the multicolored geologic spectacle of the Cedar Breaks amphitheater, scenic vistas, and natural and cultural resources of scientific interest for public appreciation, education, recreation, and enjoyment.

For more information, visit the park website, Facebook or Instagram.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!