06 Jan 2023
Navigating a Winter National Park Visit
Easily one of the best times to visit Utah’s National Parks, winter brings a special magic to each of these stunning destinations. But navigating the winter hours, changes, conditions, and more can take some time.
Below is a quick guide to visiting our nearby National Parks during the winter. These parks include Bryce Canyon National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Kolob Canyons (North Zion National Park), and Zion National Park.
Visiting Cedar Breaks National Monument in Winter
This giant amphitheater sits high atop the Markagunt Plateau, over 2,500 feet deep and more than three miles across. The spectacular colors of Cedar Breaks National Monument dusted with a little snow make it breathtaking to behold. While Cedar Breaks can be difficult to reach in winter there are some great (and adventurous) options available!
In the winter, Scenic Hwy 148 through Cedar Breaks becomes a groomed trail for snowmobiles, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing.
How to Get There & Additional Information
How to get there: From Cedar City, take I-15 north to Parowan, take exit 77. Follow the signs to Hwy 143. Follow Hwy 143 past the town of Brian Head to the north overlook parking area of Cedar Breaks.
*Note: This parking area will not be plowed. Be mindful of where you park, don’t get stuck.
Admission Fee: In winter there is NO admission fee for Cedar Breaks.
Find current park conditions, closings, and updates HERE.
Before Heading out it’s always a good idea to check current weather conditions and road conditions.
Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in Winter
Stunning red rock formations and sweeping views covered in snow make for an absolutely magical experience in southern Utah. With a winter visit to Bryce Canyon you may not be able to hike every trail, and the experience will be different, but oh so worth it!
Typical winter activities in Bryce Canyon include hiking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, winter backpacking, and winter astronomy. You can find more information about these activities (as well as rentals and guides) using the link included HERE.
How to Get There & Additional Information
How to get there in Winter: From Cedar City, take I-15 northbound to exit 95. From there take Hwy 20 to the town of Panguitch. From Panguitch follow Hwy 89 to Bryce Canyon National Park.
*While IN the park: Use of a shuttle is NOT required and the roads can be traveled via personal vehicle.
Admission Fee: Entrance fees ARE required. A Week Pass for a private vehicle is $35. An annual pass (and senior passes) are also permitted.
Find current park conditions, road conditions, closures and more HERE.
Visiting Zion National Park in Winter
A beautiful geologic showpiece of sandstone cliffs (among the highest in the world) Zion is home to a large diverse animal and plant community as well as beautiful views! This stunning park is a favorite for locals and visitors alike and there’s a unique experience in walking the trails of the park, quieted beneath a blanket of snow.
Typical winter activities in Zion National Park include scenic drives, bicycling, and hiking. While many trails are OPEN in winter, some will close due to ice and poor condition. Proper footwear with traction devices are recommended and if you plan to hike The Narrows prepare with proper gear (such as a drysuit) because it will be cold!
How to Get There & Additional Information
How to Get There in Winter: From Cedar City take I-15 southbound to Exit 16. From there take Hwy 9 through to Zion National Park.
*The Zion National Park Shuttle service is NOT in operation from January 2nd to March 10th. Private vehicles are permitted on the Canyon Scenic Drive. This road does CLOSE when there is no longer parking available.
Admission Fee: Entrance fees ARE required. A Week Pass for a private vehicle is $35. An annual pass (and senior passes) are also permitted.
Find current park conditions, road conditions, closures and more HERE.
Visiting Kolob Canyons in Winter
The lesser known side of Zion National Park, Kolob Canyons is typically less traveled, but no less spectacular! The canyon is shaped in rugged red standstone cast against green forests and in winter the crimson stone takes on a different look beneath a dusting of snow.
Winter activities in Kolob Canyons include scenic drives, hiking, and snowshoeing. While all trails in Kolob Canyons remain open, snowshoes or traction devices will be necessary depending on snowpack. The scenic drive is open when available.
How to Get There & Additional Information
How to Get There in Winter: From Cedar City, take I-15 southbound to Exit 40. The Kolob Canyon visitor center is visible immediately.
*While the National Park Service works to keep the scenic drive closed there are occasional closures. Be sure to check road conditions and closures before setting off.
Admission Fee: Entrance fees ARE required. A Week Pass for a private vehicle is $35. An annual pass (and senior passes) are also permitted.
Come explore our backyard and capture a memory or two of your own! When you do be sure to tag @visitcedarcity to share your adventure.
Let WONDER be your guide. #VisitCedarCity