CEDAR CITY — Visitors to Cedar Breaks National Monument currently have access to winter activities — but not for much longer as the weather warms and the snow melts.
While the last snowshoe hike of the season has been completed, winter astronomy programs, conducted each Saturday at 8 p.m., will continue through May 18. Click here to make a reservation, which is required for this event.
On Monday, April 22, the seasonal snowmobile trail through the park will be closed, according to a National Park Service news release. The closure is necessary to begin preparing for the 2024 summer season, including plowing the park road. Visitors are welcome to continue snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the park while sufficient snow remains and are advised to watch for equipment operating on the road.
Summer services will resume May 24, with the campground opening June 14. Astronomy programs will begin May 24 at North View. These programs will be conducted every Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting with solar viewing at 6:30 p.m., an astronomy talk at 8 p.m. and telescope viewing from 8:30-10:30 p.m. No reservations are necessary.
The Point Supreme Overlook will remain closed until midsummer as construction resumes on the new visitor contact station. Visitors can still access the South Rim Trail from the Point Supreme parking lot.
Festival dates for 2024 are as follows:
- Wildlife Extravaganza, June 7-9
- Geology Jamboree, June 21-23
- Wildflower Festival, July 6-14
- Heritage Festival Aug. 9-11
- Southwest Astronomy Festival, Sept. 20-22
The monument sits above 10,000 feet, so visitors may encounter all types of weather and are encouraged to dress in layers and wear good footwear, the news release said.
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.
More information is available on the monument website, Facebook and Instagram.