5 ways to enjoy southern Utah during the government shutdown

5 ways to enjoy southern Utah during the government shutdown


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SALT LAKE CITY — The government shutdown is upon us and many people have found themselves wondering how their lives will be affected. Basically, all government offices that aren’t part of “essential activities” have closed up shop for the time being. This means that employees at national monuments and museums have been sent home, while safety-related workers like air traffic controllers and prison guards will continue to work. And as essential as national parks may seem to many Americans, their employees are also subject to the shutdown.

Although Utah’s national parks have been impacted by the shutdown, they still offer a variety of outdoor adventures. Simply keep in mind that while there are typically forest rangers and other employees at the parks to watch out for your safety, during the shutdown your adventures will be at your own risk. By maintaining personal responsibility and exercising caution, you still can make some wonderful memories.

Here are five ways you can enjoy the grandeur of southern Utah despite the current state of affairs. Remember, just because the gift shop and visitors center are closed at a park doesn’t mean that the scenery has shut down as well.

Cedar Breaks National Monument
Cedar Breaks National Monument (Photo: Cedar City-Brian Head Tourism Bureau)

  1. Cedar Breaks National Monument: Located near Cedar City, Cedar Breaks is a natural amphitheater that spans three miles. It is renowned for its stunning formations, which resemble its well-known kin in Bryce Canyon National Park. The roadways that lead into Cedar Breaks and connect Highway 14 and Highway 143 are currently open. If you are interested in an alternate view of the scenery, you should take the road to High Mountain. It requires a 4x4 vehicle or ATV, but it’s well worth the effort. The road takes off just outside of Brian Head. You can rent an ATV at Double Diamond Rentals in Cedar City and they’ll even deliver it to the Brian Head area.
  2. Zion National Park: The gates are closed that lead to the main entrance of the park, but SR-9 remains open to through traffic. This renowned stretch of road connects Highway 89 and Mount Carmel Junction, giving visitors access to some of the park’s most beautiful views. It has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1987. Highlights include Checkerboard Mesa and the Zion Tunnel. NOTE: Stopping to take photos from the road is not allowed, so this is a true scenic drive. Also, no RVs will be allowed.

Kolob Canyons in Zion National Park
Kolob Canyons in Zion National Park (Photo: Cedar City-Brian Head Tourism Bureau)

  1. Kolob Canyon: While the main road to Kolob Canyon is locked, you can still view it in all its splendor from the town of New Harmony. When you exit I-15, rather than turn east toward the canyon, head west to New Harmony. From there you’ll get wide, sweeping views that have been favored by photographers for years.
  2. Kolob Reservoir Road: Known for its aspen groves and grassy meadows, the route leading to Kolob Reservoir is absolutely gorgeous this time of year. The route begins about five miles east of Cedar City, off SR-14. The road is 45 miles long and is not passable in wet conditions, so be sure to plan ahead and keep an eye on the weather.
  3. State parks: There are lots of opportunities for fun at our many state parks, which are still open and accessible. These include Sand Hollow, Quail Lake, Gunlock Reservoir, Petrified Forest, Anasazi State Park Museum, Kodachrome Basin and Snow Canyon State Park. To learn more about southern Utah and find additional hikes and scenic drives, visit www.utah.com.
Grant Olsen joined the ksl.com team in 2012. He covers travel, outdoor adventures, and other interesting things. Contact him at grant@thegatsbys.com.

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