The annual Cedar Breaks Wildflower Festival is happening now through July 22nd and is always one of the highlights of our summer. Located within the Cedar Breaks National Monument, native wildflowers that depending on the snow pack from the previous winter, can be prolific or not quiet as abundant, either way are a sight to behold! 

The most abundant wildflower near the 10,000' sub alpine area of the monument, is the Colorado Columbine. These flowers seem to prefer the more lush, forested areas to the open fields. This year there were a lot of stunning Scarlett Paintbrush as well as yellow Cinquefoil and purple Shooting Star Flowers.

                                                           Lush field of Columbines and Scarlet Paintbrush

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                                                                   Stunning Aspen Blue Bells - Not quite as abundant this year

There are two guided hikes by park rangers each day at, 10:00 am and 3:00 pm and are free with your paid park admission. There are also other activities on the weekends at 10 am and 4 pm that your whole family can enjoy.  A wildflower checklist of What's In Bloom is available at one of the information tables if you'd prefer to walk the area on your own to identify the flowers. 

                                                                                              Rampart's Trail

We were childless on our four mile round trip Rampart's Trail hike this year which was a relief because there are lots of dangerous drop offs that you'd need to be cautious of with younger children. If you do decide to hike this beautiful, rim trail overlooking a three mile wide natural, colorful, rock amphitheater with kids, be super cautious and plan on holding the younger kids' hands. There are some steeper ascents that might be difficult for those with cardiopulmonary compromise at a 10,500' elevation.

The overlook by the parking lot and store is paved and fairly flat for easier wheelchair access and those who have physical disabilities.

                                                                  Chessman Ridge Overlook

If you enjoy photography, why not submit your photos of the wildflower festival to cedarbreaksinfo@nps.gov for a chance to get your photo selected for next year's brochure and possibly win a prize?!!

For more information on great events happening in southern Utah, please see: Lava Falls At Entrada Vacation Rentals Events List

                                                      Last Original Guest Cabin - Circa 1920

                                                                    Rampart's Trail