The Ultimate Guide to Utah’s Scenic Byways
Utah is a road-tripper’s paradise, offering some of the most breathtaking scenic byways in the country. Whether you’re looking for fall foliage, snow-capped peaks, spring wildflowers, or desert landscapes, Utah’s highways and backroads provide stunning views in every season. From winding mountain passes to expansive desert vistas, these seasonal road trips will help you experience the best of Utah no matter the time of year.
Spring: Blooming Landscapes and Desert Adventures
Scenic Byway 12 – A Journey Through Red Rock Country
Best Time to Visit: March – May
Why It’s Great: This All-American Road stretches for 122 miles between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef, offering stunning views of red rock formations, canyons, and high plateaus. In spring, the temperatures are perfect for hiking, and desert wildflowers start to bloom along the route.
Must-See Stops: Kodachrome Basin State Park, Escalante Petrified Forest, and the breathtaking switchbacks of Hogback Ridge.
Pro Tip: Stop in the town of Escalante for local dining and a visit to the Escalante Heritage Center.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive – Towering Cliffs and Waterfalls
Best Time to Visit: March – April
Why It’s Great: Spring runoff creates seasonal waterfalls, and temperatures are perfect for hiking without the summer crowds. The drive through Zion National Park offers breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs and lush canyon landscapes.
Must-See Stops: Emerald Pools, The Watchman, and Court of the Patriarchs.
Pro Tip: The scenic drive is shuttle-only from March to November, so plan ahead to park and ride into the canyon.
Summer: High Mountain Passes and Alpine Escapes
Alpine Loop Scenic Byway – A Cool Summer Escape
Best Time to Visit: June – August
Why It’s Great: Winding through Aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and dramatic peaks, this 20-mile drive connects American Fork Canyon to Provo Canyon. Summer is the best time to escape the heat and enjoy cool mountain air and lush greenery.
Must-See Stops: Timpanogos Cave, Sundance Mountain Resort, and Cascade Springs.
Pro Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal at Sundance’s outdoor dining areas.
Mirror Lake Scenic Byway – Lakes, Wildlife, and Fishing
Best Time to Visit: June – September
Why It’s Great: Stretching from Kamas to the Utah-Wyoming border, this high-altitude byway takes you past pristine alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and dense forests. It’s a favorite for camping, fishing, and spotting wildlife like moose and deer.
Must-See Stops: Provo River Falls, Bald Mountain Pass, and Mirror Lake.
Pro Tip: Bring bug spray and layers—mosquitoes can be active near the lakes, and temperatures drop at night.
Fall: Golden Aspen Groves and Colorful Canyons
Logan Canyon Scenic Byway – Fall Foliage Wonderland
Best Time to Visit: September – October
Why It’s Great: This winding drive follows the Logan River, passing through fiery red and gold aspen groves. The crisp autumn air and stunning canyon views make it one of the best fall drives in Utah.
Must-See Stops: Tony Grove Lake, Wind Caves Trail, and Bear Lake Overlook.
Pro Tip: Stop in Garden City for a famous Bear Lake raspberry shake.
Nebo Loop Scenic Byway – Utah’s Best-Kept Fall Secret
Best Time to Visit: Late September – October
Why It’s Great: This 38-mile drive offers some of the most spectacular fall colors in Utah, with bright orange and yellow aspens covering the mountains. It’s a less crowded alternative to other popular fall foliage routes.
Must-See Stops: Devil’s Kitchen, Payson Lakes, and Mount Nebo Overlook.
Pro Tip: Pack a jacket—higher elevations can get chilly even in early fall.
Winter: Snowy Peaks and Frozen Landscapes
Big Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Byway – Snow-Covered Mountain Views
Best Time to Visit: December – March
Why It’s Great: This stunning mountain drive takes you from Salt Lake City into the heart of the Wasatch Mountains, passing snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and ski resorts. It’s the perfect drive for winter photography and a cozy mountain getaway.
Must-See Stops: Solitude and Brighton ski resorts, Silver Fork Lodge, and Donut Falls Trailhead.
Pro Tip: Always check road conditions before heading up the canyon, especially after snowfall.
Highway 143 – The Patchwork Parkway
Best Time to Visit: December – February
Why It’s Great: Connecting Panguitch to Brian Head, this scenic drive winds through snow-covered forests, historic lava flows, and high-altitude meadows. In winter, Brian Head becomes a top destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Must-See Stops: Panguitch Lake, Brian Head Peak, and Cedar Breaks National Monument.
Pro Tip: Bring chains or 4WD—winter storms can make the road icy.
The Best Utah Road Trips for Every Season
No matter what time of year you visit, Utah’s scenic byways provide unforgettable landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and countless outdoor adventures. From springtime desert blooms to winter wonderlands, each season offers a new way to experience the beauty of the Beehive State.
Pack your bags, fuel up, and hit the road to discover Utah’s most breathtaking drives!
