Winter Activities

Experience the sparkling white beauty of winter at Cedar Breaks! There are many activities available for those who are unafraid of a little cold weather! Once the first heavy snowfall closes Utah Highway 148 (roughly mid November to late May) it becomes a groomed trail through the monument for visitors to ski, snowshoe and snowmobile. For more info on accessing the park in winter, visit our Winter Access page.

Safety

• Since the majority of facilities and services are closed at Cedar Breaks your safety is ultimately your responsibility.
• Please take into account your abilities and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
• Cell phone reception is unreliable in this area. It is recommended that you notify friends or family of your plans and expected return time.
• Be aware that snowdrifts can be 10-20 feet deep due to prevailing winds.
• Hypothermia: Drink lots of liquids, stay dry, carry survival gear, wear layers of clothing, and snack frequently. Be alert to symptoms of drowsiness and confusion.

 

Snowmobiling

• Snowmobile travel is allowed only on the marked, groomed trail that follows Utah Highway 148.
• Those wishing to stop at viewpoints are asked to walk, snowshoe, or ski while off-trail.
• Please observe all trail markers and closure signs. Violators can be fined up to $5,000 and snowmobiles impounded.
• Please ride safe, wear a helmet, and don't drink and drive!

Just outside of Cedar Breaks, there are less restrictive opportunities for snowmobiling. Established trails exist and connect across the Cedar Mountain Complex, many of which are regularly groomed. Please visit the Cedar Mountain Snowmobile Complex website or view the trails map. Private property is generally closed to public use and the US Forest Service has been maintaining a closure at Deer Valley.

 

Snowshoeing & Skiing

Cedar Breaks has miles of trails for the adventurous skier and snowshoer. Whether you are skiing a groomed trail in a developed area or venturing to the trees, remember that you are traveling in a remote area with all its dangers: unpredictable wildlife, changing weather conditions, deep snow, frozen ponds, and more. Your safety is not guaranteed. Be prepared for any situation and know the limit of your abilities.

• Track is set only on a few trails. All roads and trails are open to cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
• When skiing on groomed roadways used by snowmobiles, keep to the right to avoid accidents.
• Cedar Breaks National Monument sits at around 10,000 feet (3048 meters). If you are coming from lower elevations be aware that you will tire more easily.
• Cellphone coverage is very limited in the backcountry.
• Get specific information on weather conditions before leaving to ski or snowshoe.
• Include allowances for limited daylight, snow conditions, temperature extremes, and the number of people in the group, their experience and physical condition.
• Choose skis and boots made for touring or mountaineering.
• Dress properly and know about layering for severe winter temperatures to prevent chilling and overheating.

Guided Snowshoe Hikes

Cedar Breaks’ interpreters provide guided snowshoe hikes to the public in January through March (weather permitting). Snowshoes and poles are provided to those who don’t own their own. Search our Calendar of Events for times, dates and how to register.

After registering, visitors will get details on how to prepare for the hike and more. On the day of the hike, rangers instruct visitors in snowshoe use and will lead a 1 mile (one-way) interpretive walk from the junction of Highways 148 and 143 to the Winter Warming Hut (yurt).

After enjoying hot cocoa, provided by the Warming Hut volunteers, rangers lead visitors back to their vehicles or encourage visitors to return at their own pace.

 

Copyright Mike Saemisch

Winter Star Parties

To celebrate and share the beauty of our dark night skies, Cedar Breaks hosts a series of star parties during the winter months. Each star party is conducted by a park staff and astronomy volunteers at various dates and locations. Search our Events Calendar for times and dates of upcoming winter star parties.

Once the light fades the party kicks off with a laser guided tour of the constellations followed by star viewing through several telescopes. Observe swirling nebulae, twinkling star clusters, neighborly planets, and distant galaxies. Learn about everything from constellation mythology to the structure of the universe, all in one night!

Star parties are free of charge and are two hours in duration. Telescopes will be provided for viewing, although visitors who own their own telescopes are invited to bring them along.

*Please dress warmly for very cold winter conditions at this high elevation!