Best Easy Day Hikes Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks by Erik Molvar

Author:Erik Molvar
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: FALCONGUIDES
Published: 2021-04-09T00:00:00+00:00

The trail ends at Double Arch Alcove, with its spectacular streaked overhang that encloses a shady pocket.

Miles and Directions

0.0 Start at the trailhead.

1.0 Confluence of North and Middle Forks of Taylor Creek.

2.5 Trail ends at Double Arch Alcove.

Cedar Breaks and Markagunt High Country

The Markagunt Plateau is one of the loftiest uplands in western Utah. The Paiute gave the plateau its name, which means “Highland of Trees.” Indeed, a rich forest of subalpine fir and spruce graces the rolling surface of the plateau, interspersed with broad, grassy meadows where elk and mule deer come to graze. Bristlecone pines cling to the windy precipices on the rims of the plateau, surviving extremes of cold and drought.

Because of the plateau’s high elevation, hiking opportunities are limited to the summer months. The deep snowdrifts of winter often linger until June, and autumn snows force road closures as early as October. Cool summer temperatures atop the Markagunt make it a haven from the scorching heat found at lower elevations. In winter the area receives enough snow for cross-country skiing. Access to the Markagunt Plateau is via Utah Highway 14, which runs between Cedar City and Long Valley Junction. The highway is plowed free of snow during the wintertime, but only during daylight hours.

The jewel in the crown of the Markagunt Plateau is Cedar Breaks National Monument. This small preserve encompasses a broad amphitheater filled with cliffs banded in orange and red, castellated with craggy spires and natural arches that rival Bryce Canyon in splendor.

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