Chessmen Ridge Overlook ~ Cedar Breaks National Monument

There are three canyon rim overlooks at Cedar Breaks National Monument and each offers a unique view of this majestic landscape. Point Supreme has the best views of Brian Head and the many hoodoos. The Sunset View overlook has the best views of the exploding cedar visual effect in the canyon below. Just like the name infers, the Chessmen Ridge Overlook offers great views of the army of strange looking hoodoos, which look as if they are emerging from canyon walls. Cedar Breaks truly is a place where exploring each vantage point can enhance the experience.   

There is much more for a visitor to do at Cedar Breaks than just take in the scenic views from the canyon rim overlooks. There are plenty of hiking trails starting in the neighboring Dixie National Forest that run through the canyon.  Most of the hiking trails are suitable for all skill levels, however, hikers should keep in mind that the air is thin in this high elevation and it does take time to adjust.  Drinking extra water and snacking does help to prevent altitude sickness. 

There are primitive campsites in this National Monument along the crest of canyon rim in the mountain meadows. There are also modern campgrounds nearby in Duck Creek and Navajo Lake that are suitable for Recreational Vehicles and travel trailer campers. Camping out at this high elevation above the clouds offers crystal clear views of the stars at night. The fresh mountain air sure does have a way of rejuvenating a city dweller’s body and mind. The temperatures can be downright chilly at night even during the summer season, so it is best to pack some cold weather gear and clothing to maintain a level of comfort.  

The vast mountain meadows that surround Cedar Breaks are a prime feeding ground for Mule Deer and Elk. Eagles and hawks can be seen hunting for field mice and rabbits nearly any time of day. The mountain meadows at Cedar Breaks definitely are a prime wildlife viewing area, so packing some high power binoculars or a telephoto camera is a must to do. In fact, to get the best detailed views of Cedar Breaks and the animated hoodoos, a powerful viewing lens will be of help. I used an 18x105 and a 70x300 lens to capture the images for the Cedar Breaks photo albums. Viewing Cedar Breaks with the naked eye is amazing, but a little bit of optical magnification will reveal much more.

All it takes is looking at a few photos of Cedar Breaks National Monument to be convinced that this destination belongs high on the lifetime travel destination list. Because this National Monument is almost two miles high, it is best to keep in mind that the window of opportunity for a summer season visit will be narrow. A heavy winter snow pack can delay opening day till late June or July and and early season blizzard can cause closures in October. For this reason, it is best to check on the conditions when planning the trip. Cedar Breaks National Monument is one of the most unique natural wonders on earth and the memories of the panoramic views definitely will last a lifetime!