Overview

Although the Scenic Drive around Cedar Breaks National Monument is closed by snow from late November to mid-May, the park is accessible by skis, snowshoes and snowmobiles. When snow dresses the red rock hoodoos and canyon walls it makes a stunning picture, accentuating the colors. 

Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing

Some of the best conditions and terrain in the US for cross country/Nordic skiing is on Cedar Mountain, including Dixie National Forest and Cedar Breaks. Use ungroomed trails or share the Cedar Breaks trail with snowmobilers.

Brian Head, Burt’s Road Trail

• Park north of Brian Head City Hall on Hwy 143
• 7 mile trail at 9,500 elevation
• Sometimes groomed

Rattlesnake Trailhead

• Park 1 mile south of Brian Head on Hwy 143
• Follow orange pole markers
• 3.5 mile trail at 10,500 elevation.
• Ungroomed.

Alpine Pond Trail

• Park at intersection of Hwy 143 and 148
• Ski south on closed stretch of Hwy 143 1 mile to Yurt hut. Then follow orange cross-country poles south 1 mile, and return.
• 4 miles at 10,500 elevation
• Marked trail, sometimes groomed 

• There is a yurt (alpine hut) at the Alpine Pond Trailhead for winter visitors which is staffed by volunteers who offer hot cocoa to warm winter visitors who call in.

Snowmobiling 
Outside Cedar Breaks there are no limits on snowmobiling. Private property is closed to public use and the Forest Service may close Deer Valley.

Cedar Breaks Trail

• 8.9 mile groomed trail that follows SR 148
• This is the only acceptable trail through the National Monument. Those wishing to stop at viewpoints must walk, snowshoe, or ski while off-trail.
• Please observe all trail markers and closure signs. Violators can be fined up to $5,000 and their snowmobiles impounded.

Brian Head Trail 

• 9 mile trail runs parallel to Hwy 143
• Provides snowmobile access to Brian Head
• Several loops and play areas accessible from this trail

Sage Valley Trail

• 8.4 mile wooded trail
• Begins at south end of Cedar Breaks Trail
• Steep section before the intersection with Duck Creek Trail

Duck Creek Trail

• 14.5 miles
• Accessible from Sage Valley Trail
• Connects Duck Creek Village with Midway Valley
• Caution advised as track is narrow and bumpy in places

Additional Info

The season usually starts when there is a sufficient depth of snow. It offers a wide range of challenges for all abilities but even the most experienced skiers stay on the snow-covered road to avoid treacherous hidden edges into steep-sided gorges. After heavy snowfall the majority of the trails are closed.