13 Scenic Drives In Utah That Are Incredibly Beautiful

Utah is an absolutely stunning state, with sweeping views every way you look. Here are 13 scenic drives in Utah that are incredibly beautiful -- so beautiful, in fact, that you'll definitely want to take your time and savor the drive. Buckle up and let's get going on some of the best scenic drives in Utah.

1) Nebo Loop

This scenic drive is beautiful all year round, though it's especially gorgeous in the fall once the leaves turn.

2) Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

This section of Zion-Mount Carmel Highway winds about 26 miles through Zion National Park. The small toll is well worth the money for this scenic drive, which is positively sublime.

3) Alpine Loop

Whether you start at American Fork Canyon or Provo Canyon, Alpine Loop provides picturesque views of Utah Valley. Please note: this loop is open seasonally -- late May through the end of October.

4) Highway 12 - Red Canyon

When searching for some of the best driving roads in Utah, this is it. The views are incredible and the south portion of this scenic highway offers plenty of unique rock formations.

5) Big Cottonwood Canyon

Big Cottonwood Canyon will take you all the way up to Brighton, where you can then get out and hike to see even scenic beauty.

6) Indian Creek Scenic Byway

This scenic byway will take you into Canyonlands. Don't forget to stop along the way for a quick peek at Newspaper Rock!

7) Guardsman Pass

Panoramic Park City views abound on Guardsman Pass, which is closed during the winter. However, if you are searching for the best backroads in Utah during the fall, make sure this scenic drive is at the top of your list — it's gorgeous!

8) Potash Road

Potash is the nickname for SR-279. It winds along the Colorado River and ends at the border of Canyonlands National Park.

9) Markagunt High Plateau Scenic Byway

This byway (U-14) stretches from Cedar City to Long Valley Junction. This scenic drive is approximately 40 miles and takes you through both Iron and Kane counties.

10) Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

From Kamas, you'll drive through the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, enjoying stunning foliage and perhaps even sighting some wildlife on this scenic byway before you arrive at Mirror Lake.

11) Upper Colorado Scenic Byway

This stunning state route (also known as U-128) starts in Moab and stretched almost 45 glorious miles.

12) Capitol Reef Scenic Byway

This photo was taken from the Plateau Valley near Loa. The entire Capitol Reef Scenic Byway will take you about 4 hours to traverse.

13) East Canyon

A beautiful drive that's in a beautiful park — get out, stretch your legs, and maybe even pitch a hammock for some scenic chill time.

What other scenic drives in Utah would you recommend? What do you consider to be the best backroads in Utah? Let us know in the comments! And, before you head on any backroads in Utah, make sure to check out our list featuring the best road trip snacks.

If you prefer to take in the beauty of The Beehive State on foot, these 15 gorgeous hikes in Utah will not disappoint!