Southern Utah is known for its incredible parks and hiking trails. From popular destinations like Zion or Capitol Reef National Park to lesser-known but equally stunning options like Snow Canyon or Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, there’s no shortage of places to explore.
The southern part of Utah features some of the most scenic drives in the US, characterized by dramatic red rock canyons, high-elevation forests, and unique geological formations. Scenic drives in this region offer a mix of national parks, national monuments, and national forests, providing a diverse experience of natural beauty. Utah boasts 19 designated state scenic byways that offer unparalleled vistas and heritage. Driving conditions on these routes can vary from smooth paved roads suitable for all vehicles to rugged dirt and rock roads that require high clearance or four-wheel drive vehicles.
But on a visit to the area, you might just find yourself looking to take a break from all that hiking. Luckily, there are plenty of scenic drives that are perfect for taking a load off your feet and seeing even more of the region’s unique beauty. Whether you’re looking for an evening drive or a full day’s adventure, keep reading to learn about a few of the region’s best scenic drives.
Zion Park Scenic Byway
When the Zion Canyon Shuttle System is in operation from March to November, personal vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which runs through the lower canyon of Zion National Park. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy a scenic cruise in the park.
The Zion Park Scenic Byway is the main road providing access to Zion National Park’s most scenic areas, and the visitor center is a great starting point for your drive. The highway actually begins on Highway I-15, just outside of Hurricane, Utah. The highway takes you through Springdale and into the East Entrance of the park. Continuing to the right instead of turning onto the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, you’ll begin climbing up, towards the top of the canyon, navigating the steep switchbacks and passing through the iconic Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, a 1.1-mile engineering marvel. The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway (SR-9) is a 25-mile drive known for its stunning views and as a masterpiece of engineering, featuring steep switchbacks, a long tunnel, and access to landmarks like Checkerboard Mesa and the Canyon Overlook.
After exiting the park, you’ll pass through Mount Carmel Junction, moving onto Utah Highway 9 before ending your drive in Kanab.
You’ll enjoy awesome views on all 60-miles of this scenic drive. Driving out and back makes for a perfect afternoon cruise. Or plan a few stops along the way for an all-day adventure.
Smithsonian Butte National Backcountry Byway
This next scenic byway is unique from others on this list. So unique that you’re going to want to have an off-road vehicle, or at the very least one with a high clearance, to drive it. The Smithsonian Butte National Backcountry Byway is an unpaved route that begins near Gooseberry Mesa and Smithsonian Butte, just to the southwest of Zion National Park. There’s an access point located on Highway 9 near Rockville, Utah, as well as one on Highway 59 near Hilldale.
With no facilities on this stretch of road, you’ll want to make sure you have enough gas and any supplies you expect to need during your drive. While the road is just 9 miles long, it covers some truly scenic territory. After heavy rain or snowfall, this road begins impassable, especially to any vehicles that aren’t four-wheel drive.
On the Backcountry Byway, you’ll enjoy incredible panoramic views of Zion National Park. Look for the East and West temples stretching towards the sky. When you reach the road’s highest point, you’ll have a sweeping view of the Virgin River Valley. You’ll also pass the historic Grafton ghost town.
Kanab to Page on Arizona Route 89A
If you wake up and find yourself facing a rainy day or you just need a break from hiking, a longer scenic drive might be just the ticket. For jaw-dropping scenic views, you’ll start by driving from La Verkin to Kanab, Utah. You can either do this by dipping south into northern Arizona on highway 389, passing through Kaibab, or by going through Zion National Park to Mt Carmel Junction, then south to Kanab.
If you’re coming from the south, you’ll turn onto Route 89A in Fredonia, Arizona. If you’re coming from the north, you’ll connect with your scenic route in Kanab, Utah. Either way, from there you’ll head southeast into Arizona.
This scenic drive takes you through a variety of landscapes and along picturesque canyon roads that connect key attractions in the region. Climb towards the sky and into the pine forests near Jacob Lake. Here you’ll pass the highway that takes you to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon when it is open for the year. Dip back down to the desert, where red rocks stretch out to the base of rocky mountains in the distance. Route 89A takes you through Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, an often-overlooked but incredibly stunning monument.
Your drive ends in Page, Arizona, where you can take a side trip to Horseshoe Bend or stand on the shores of Lake Powell. The area offers breathtaking scenic views of the Colorado River, which is a central attraction and a defining feature of the landscape around Page.
When you’re finished in Page, you can either head back the way that you came or go north on Route 89, which circles back to Kanab, passing through the Grand Staircase Escalante area and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Factory Butte and Unique Landscapes
If you’re searching for a truly unforgettable adventure in southern Utah, Factory Butte is a destination that should be at the top of your list. Just about an hour from the nearest town, this striking landmark rises from the desert floor, surrounded by a tapestry of colorful sandstone cliffs and deep canyons. The drive out to Factory Butte is a scenic route in itself, winding through dramatic landscapes and offering plenty of scenic overlooks where you can pause and soak in the natural beauty.
Factory Butte is renowned for its unique geologic features—its stark, sculpted formations and vibrant rock layers create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Whether you’re a photographer, a geology enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to explore, you’ll find plenty to marvel at here. The area is a haven for outdoor lovers, with hiking trails that range from a short walk to panoramic viewpoints atop the butte, to more challenging routes that weave through the surrounding canyons and rock formations.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, Factory Butte is a popular spot for rock climbing and horseback riding. The rugged terrain and open spaces make it an ideal playground for both activities, offering a fresh perspective on the region’s natural beauty. And if you’re interested in the cultural history of southern Utah, you’ll find traces of the area’s Native American heritage in the form of ancient rock art and archaeological sites scattered throughout the landscape.
Factory Butte also serves as a perfect jumping-off point for exploring some of Utah’s most iconic destinations. Just a short drive away, you can discover the colorful amphitheaters of Capitol Reef National Park, the dramatic vistas of Cedar Breaks National Monument, and the endless hiking trails of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Don’t miss a day trip to Lake Powell for water adventures, or a visit to Monument Valley to experience the region’s rich Navajo culture and iconic rock formations. For those who love state parks, Dead Horse State Park and Kodachrome Basin State Park offer even more opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and photography.
Utah offers an incredible variety of scenic drives and byways, from the vibrant Patchwork Parkway to the legendary routes through Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a longer road trip through southern Utah, Factory Butte and its surrounding landscapes promise some of the best scenery and outdoor experiences the state has to offer. So pack your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the unique geologic wonders that make this corner of Utah truly unforgettable.
Exploring Southern Utah’s Backroads
These three scenic drives are certainly bucket-list-worthy. But they are far from your only options in the area. Just about any road you turn down in Southern Utah has its own unique views to offer. Don’t be afraid to get off the beaten road and explore during your visit!
Keep in mind that cell phone service is often unavailable on many scenic drives in Southern Utah. Always check the weather conditions before heading out, as storms can cause flooding and road closures. When traveling through remote areas, it’s advisable to carry plenty of water and emergency supplies, and watch for wildlife, such as cows, that may be present on rural roads. Exploring backroads can lead to discovering slot canyons and unique features like those found in the Bears Ears area, which is known for its scenic value and outdoor adventure opportunities. Many travelers begin their journey from Las Vegas, making it a popular gateway to southern Utah’s national parks. While northern Utah has its own scenic byways and attractions, southern Utah stands out for its dramatic landscapes and wilderness adventures.
Before you can start to explore, though, you’ll need to plan your next visit. Check out all that The Dwellings has to offer to learn why it’s the perfect base camp for your next Southern Utah adventure.
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