A giant natural amphitheater eroded into the pink and orange limestone of the Markagunt Plateau, plunging over 2,000 feet at elevations above 10,000 feet. Summer brings some of Utah's best wildflower meadows, and the monument is an International Dark Sky Park with ranger-led star parties.
| Category | National Monument |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Brian Head / Cedar City |
| Top activities | Rim viewpoints (Point Supreme, Sunset View), Wildflower festival in July, Stargazing and dark-sky programs, Ramparts and Spectra Point trails, Winter snowshoeing and snowmobiling |
| Best time to visit | June through September for wildflowers and open roads; the rim road (SR-148) is closed to cars in winter but open to snowmobiles and skiers. |
| Entrance fee | $25 per vehicle (7 days); $15 per person on foot/bike; America the Beautiful pass accepted |
| Permits | No permits for day use. SR-148 through the monument is closed to vehicles roughly November to late May depending on snow. |
Visitor tip: The rim sits above 10,000 feet — take it slow on the trails, bring layers even in July, and drink extra water to offset the altitude.
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