Overview
Bristlecone pines are among the oldest living organisms on Earth. The trees growing at timberline on the ridges near Cedar Breaks in Dixie National Forest have weathered over 3,000 years of harsh high-altitude conditions, twisted, gnarled, and stripped of bark in sections by wind and ice, yet still alive. The 3-mile loop that passes through a grove of these trees is a short but genuinely humbling walk.
The trail climbs to a ridge at around 10,400 feet where the bristlecone pines occupy their preferred habitat: exposed, rocky, wind-blasted terrain where they have little competition from other species. The views from the ridge include the Cedar Breaks amphitheater, the colorful eroded cliffs of the Claron Formation that give the national monument its name. The combination of ancient trees and geological spectacle makes this one of the better short hikes in the Cedar Breaks area.
The loop is within Dixie National Forest and does not require a Cedar Breaks National Monument entrance fee. It is accessible from UT-148, the same road that leads to the monument visitor center.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.0: Approach and Ascent
The trail begins at the highway pullout and climbs through the transition zone between the main forest and the exposed ridge. The grade is moderate but sustained. The first bristlecone specimens appear at the treeline boundary, shorter, more gnarled examples in the transitional zone.
Miles 1.0 to 2.0: Ridge Grove and Cedar Breaks Viewpoint
The trail reaches the ridge where the primary bristlecone grove stands. The oldest specimens are in this section, identifiable by their extremely gnarled and sculpted forms. Dead trunks, stripped white by weather and time, stand alongside living trees. The Cedar Breaks viewpoint from the ridge provides the full panoramic view of the amphitheater to the west.
Miles 2.0 to 3.0: Descent Return
The loop descends on the opposite side of the ridge and returns to the trailhead through the lower forest zone.
When to Visit
June through October. The trail is typically snow-free from mid-June. September and October are often the best months, clear weather, no afternoon thunderstorm risk in most years, and the beginning of aspen color in the lower forest.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. The exposed ridge and bristlecone grove are lightning risk terrain. Start early enough to be off the ridge by noon when storms are developing. Check conditions before heading out.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 2 liters of water (no sources on route)
- Wind layer for the exposed ridge
- Sun protection
Consider bringing:
- A wide-angle camera for the cedar breaks viewpoint and the gnarled tree forms
Practical Details
No restroom facilities at the trailhead. No water on route. Cell service absent. Free parking. Practice Leave No Trace principles with special attention near the bristlecone trees, do not climb on, carve, or remove any part of the trees or dead wood. The slow-growing nature of bristlecone pines means any damage is effectively permanent.
Getting There
From Cedar City, take UT-14 east approximately 20 miles to UT-148 (Mammoth Creek Road), then turn north on UT-148 approximately 4 miles toward Cedar Breaks. The Bristlecone Pine Loop trailhead is signed off UT-148. The road is paved throughout and accessible to all vehicles.