Utah Scenic Drives & Byways Guide
Discover Utah scenic road trips — winding through alpine mountain loops, granite canyons, golden autumn aspen groves, and red rock desert corridors.
Top Utah Scenic Road Trips
Utah County
Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
Winds through American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon, offering views of Mount Timpanogos, Sundance Mountain Resort, and Cascade Springs. Famous for fall foliage.
Best Season: Late May – October (Peak Fall Color: Late Sept)
Salt Lake to Park City
Guardsman Pass
Reaches an elevation of 9,700 feet, connecting Big Cottonwood Canyon directly to Park City and Midway. Features vibrant wildflowers in summer and 360° mountain vistas.
Best Season: June – October (Closed Winter)
Salt Lake Valley
Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
Towering granite cliffs lining narrow canyon roads that lead to major Wasatch ski resorts: Solitude, Brighton, Snowbird, and Alta. Excellent year-round bouldering and hiking.
Best Season: Year-Round (Tire Chains/4WD required in Winter)
Southern Utah
Scenic Byway 12 (All-American Road)
An All-American Road traveling through Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Boulder Mountain, and Capitol Reef.
Best Season: Spring & Autumn
Utah Scenic Driving Essential Tips
- Check UDOT Conditions: Download the UDOT Traffic app or visit udottraffic.utah.gov for real-time mountain pass closures and winter traction law alerts.
- Winter Vehicle Requirements: Cottonwood Canyons require 4WD/AWD or M+S snow tires during winter weather restrictions.
- Recreational Pass: Alpine Loop requires a USFS Recreation Pass ($10/3-day pass) available at canyon entrance stations.
Explore Utah Communities Along the Way
Find local dining, mountain lodges, gas stations, and regional guides for your next road trip.