Utah is world-famous for its red-rock arches and deep canyons, and as with many things in life, the journey across the Beehive State adds up to much more than any singular landmark.
Since you’ll be driving through one of America’s most beautiful states, expect jaw-dropping views throughout your journey. Fortunately, many of these vistas are accessible via paved highways, scenic drives, and roadside viewpoints. While most of Utah’s best road trips are easily accessible by car, some may require all-wheel-drive crossovers or high-clearance 4×4 vehicles.
To really get to know this state, fuel up, roll down the windows, and hit the road. Here are the best road trips in Utah.
The Essential Utah Road Trip: Scenic Byway 12
Panguitch to Torrey; 122 miles; half a day
If you take only one road trip in Utah, make it this one. Along this route, experience much of what the state is famous for in a single afternoon.
Highlights include two red-rock tunnels, expansive forests, and a summit overlook from 9,000ft. You also have access to four of Utah’s greatest natural treasures: Zion, Bryce, Grand Staircase, and Capitol Reef National Parks.
With numerous shops and stops along the way, easily make a day of it—if not a couple of weeks to thoroughly explore the parks!
Explore the Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Hwy
Starting and ending in Vernal; 512 miles; 1–3 days
Millions of years ago, Utah was part of a coastal floodplain rich in flora and fauna. Evidence of those animals can be found in the form of footprints and fossils in the state’s desert cliffs and rocky outcroppings.
The Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Hwy is the best route to see it all. Starting and ending in Vernal, this epic journey traverses Utah and a little of Colorado along I-70, US 6, US 40, and US 191.
Expect highlights including fossil quarries, Flaming Gorge, Fantasy Canyon, and the magnificent Canyonlands and Arches National Parks in Moab.
Hollywood Backdrops Along Monument Valley Hwy 163
Mexican Hat to Monument Valley; 45 miles; half a day
Dozens of major films, including Academy Award winners, have been shot in Monument Valley. This road trip will leave you feeling like a character in a classic Western film.
For stunning views, travel south from Mexican Hat, snapping pictures of the sombrero-shaped rock and “Forrest Gump Point” before descending into Monument Valley.
You can complete the route in under two hours; however, plan extra time for side trips and connecting byways.
Mirror Lake Scenic Highway: A Mountain Escape
Kamas to the border of Wyoming; 42 miles; half a day
Situated less than two hours from Salt Lake City, Mirror Lake Hwy ranks as one of the most popular mountain driving routes in the state. Paved roads take you through the High Uinta Wilderness, a hidden gem boasting picturesque landscapes.
Highlights include Upper Provo Falls, the scenic Mirror Lake, and numerous overlooks, picnic areas, and campsites along the way—making it perfect for a fall foliage experience.
Embark on the Mighty 5 Road Trip
Arches National Park to Zion National Park; 1040 miles; 10 days
Discover an unmatched concentration of national parks in Southern Utah. This route connects you to them all while also passing by iconic landmarks.
Starting in Moab at Arches National Park, the route leads east through Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion. Make stops at additional parks like Monument Valley and Goblin Valley for a fuller experience of Utah’s natural wonders.
Stunning Views and Challenging Curves Along Moki Dugway
Mexican Hat to Natural Bridges National Monument; 34 miles; half a day
This may be one of the most thrilling car rides in America, featuring hairpin turns and a significant elevation gain. Best driven northward towards Natural Bridges National Monument.
Look forward to breathtaking vistas and consider a detour to see Muley Point, overlooking the deep canyons of the San Juan River. The overlook of Valley of the Gods presents stunning buttes and stone pinnacles.
Potash to White Rim Road: A Thrilling Adventure
Moab to Island in the Sky Visitor’s Center; 32 miles; half a day
For those craving adventure, this route from Moab features challenging terrain. Drive north on Hwy 191, then south on Hwy 279, winding around the Colorado River.
Transition onto Potash Rd, leading through Dead Horse Point and into Canyonlands National Park, culminating at the Island in the Sky Visitor’s Center. It’s best suited for vehicles with all-wheel drive for a safe journey.
Cathedral Valley Scenic Backway: An Off-Road Adventure
Cathedral Road to Hartnet Road; 72 miles (with detours); half a day
To access the less-traveled parts of Capitol Reef National Park, a 4×4 vehicle with high clearance is essential. The reward is breathtaking castle-like sandstone formations and expansive desert vistas, often without another soul in sight.
This area’s unique features were shaped by millions of years of erosion, making it a pristine spot for night sky viewing and camping.
