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BRIAN HEAD — Utah has some amazing areas to view the stars, but it's easy to forget just how unique the Beehive State is.
According to Outside Magazine, southern Utah has more International Dark Sky Places than anywhere else on Earth, with Cedar Breaks National Monument among the best spots. These stunning nighttime views are thanks to factors such as low humidity, high elevation and favorable weather conditions.
The experts who run the International Dark Sky Places program have plenty to say about Utah. For starters, they refer to Cedar Breaks National Monument as a "mecca for astrotourism." They also highlight the park's "expanding array of education and outreach opportunities."
Among the aforementioned "outreach opportunities" are star parties held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Hosted by knowledgeable rangers, equipped with multiple telescopes, these events begin in July and will conclude for the year next week, on Oct. 14.
A schedule for the remaining 2023 star parties is available online here. The experience is highly recommended, if you haven't had the chance. Dress warmly and prepare for an incredible experience.
Of course, there are also plenty of things to fill the daylight hours while in the Cedar Breaks area. Here are five fun things my family has done while in town for a star party.
1. Explore Cedar Breaks
Aside from stargazing, the highlight of the monument is undoubtedly the half-mile-deep amphitheater of vibrant rock. You can view this expanse of rugged formations from multiple lookout points, as well as a great collection of family-friendly trails that traverse the rim. My favorite is the Alpine Pond Nature Trail, a rambling loop that takes you to a beautiful pond.
Wildlife abounds here, including black bears, elk, foxes, weasels, badgers and mountain lions. The wildflowers are also some of the most photogenic in the state.
2. Hang out in Brian Head
Just a few minutes down the road from Cedar Breaks is the Iron County town of Brian Head. At an elevation of 9,800 feet, it's the highest town in the state and actually bills itself as the "highest resort town in America."
There are lots of local mountain biking and hiking trails in Brian Head. And, if you're in the mood to relax, Bristlecone Pond is a great place to paddleboard or cast out a line. You should also drive up to Brian Head Peak, which offers epic views at more than 11,300 feet.
3. Visit the Parowan Gap
On the opposite side of Interstate 15, you'll find a historic area known as the Parowan Gap. This 500-foot-deep passage is wedged between looming sandstone hills on both sides. Covering the walls of the gap are countless petroglyphs created by Native people, as well as markings from Spanish explorers, pioneers and other more modern visitors.
Another highlight of this area is the Dinosaur Track Site, which is just a short distance from the petroglyphs. You'll find multiple tracks in the stone from hadrosaurs and other species.
4. Check out the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
You'll find exhibits on Native heritage, pioneer life, horse-drawn wagons and more at this museum. There are hands-on activities for the kids and a range of annual events (see the schedule here). Plus, you'll see one of the oldest pioneer structures remaining in the entire state.
Admission is $4, and kids under the age of 7 are free.
5. Stroll around the Southern Utah Museum of Art
This impressive museum is located at Southern Utah University in Cedar City. Among the featured artwork, you'll find beautiful landscapes created by regional artists. The work of Jimmie Floyd Jones, who was a resident of the area, is particularly prominent.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday and is free to the public.
