Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, Scenic Byway 12, and Nebo Loop are some of the most stunning scenic drives in Utah. In addition to these gems is the Markagunt High Plateau Scenic Byway which is located in the southern part of the state. While many people only travel this road until they reach the turnoff to Brian Head Resort or Cedar Breaks National Monument, there is so much more that is waiting for you and it is one backroad that is perfect for a scenic drive in Utah. But don’t just take our word for it, read on to learn why the Markagunt High Plateau Scenic Byway is one of the best driving roads in Utah.

Markagunt High Plateau Scenic Byway, also known as Highway 14, is approximately 40 miles and takes you through both Iron and Kane counties. If you follow Markagunt Plateau Drive in its entirety, you will travel from Cedar City to Long Valley Junction.
Utah 14, UT-14, Cedar City, UT, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
This road takes you along the Markagunt Plateau, which is a raised area of earth that is approximately 9,000 feet in elevation and part of the Colorado Plateau.
Markagunt Plateau, Utah 84762, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
If you begin this trip along one of Utah's scenic drives in Cedar City, you’ll go through the canyon filled with gorgeous red rocks. Keep your eyes open because this area of the drive is absolutely beautiful.
Cedar City, UT, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
Not far into your journey, you will also pass bucket-list-worthy destinations like the Red Hollow Trail and Rusty’s Ranch House.
As you continue your scenic drive, you’ll come to the Zion Overlook. This gorgeous overlook is just under 10,000 feet in elevation and on a clear day, you can see for miles toward the popular Zion National Park. Bring a camera because this view is amazing and a reminder of why this byway is one of the best driving roads in Utah.
Zion Overlook, Cedar Canyon, Utah, USA
Sarah Wilson/Google

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The Markagunt Plateau Drive also takes you right past Navajo Lake. This lake was actually dammed in its east end by a prehistoric volcano eruption.
Navajo Lake, Utah 84762, USA
thelittlethings theyarentlittle/Google
Navajo Lake is also quite shallow, only reaching depths of 25 feet. However, this is still a popular place for fishing and swimming as well as camping at the Navajo Lake Campground.
Navajo Lake is not the only body of water you will pass on one of the most scenic drives in Utah. You’ll also come to the beautiful Duck Creek. Here, you’ll find incredible views and excellent fishing waters.
Duck Creek, Utah 84762, USA
Michael Bennion/Google
You can also stop at Duck Creek Village, a small area that is filled with shops, restaurants, and unique places to stay as you meander along this Utah scenic drive.
Duck Creek Village, UT 84762, USA
Allied “Mobile” Sandblasting/Google
And not far from Duck Creek Village is Whispering Pines Covered Wagon Resort, where you can enjoy modern pioneer glamping at its best. Book a stay at this resort and you can turn your scenic drive into an entire weekend getaway.
Markagunt Plateau Drive in Utah is filled with hiking trails, lakes, resorts, and, of course, the most stunning southern Utah views. Hence, we think this little-known byway is certainly one road you’ll want to explore for yourself.
Long Valley Junction, UT 84710, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr

Have you ever taken the Markagunt Plateau Drive in southern Utah? If so, what did you enjoy most about this scenic drive? Did you make any stops? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments!

To help you plan for your adventure, check out our ultimate road trip packing guide for suggestions on what to bring with you on your outing. And, if you want to explore other parts of the Beehive State, take a look at these scenic drives in Utah too.

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More to Explore

Scenic Drives in Utah

Marla S. | August 16, 2023

What are some of the best scenic drives in Utah?

Aside from what you just learned about Markagunt Plateau, here are some of the best scenic drives in Utah:

  • Highway 12 - Red Canyon: We encourage you to have your camera on hand when you drive under the stunning rock formations along one of the best driving roads in Utah.
  • Indian Creek Scenic Byway: This drive is just over 40 miles and goes through Utah's infamous Canyonlands.
  • Mirror Lake Scenic Byway: Keep an eye out for wildlife as you take this Utah scenic drive through Wasatch-Cache National Forest.
  • Capitol Reef Scenic Byway: Since this is about a four-hour drive (without stops), take a look at our road trip packing guide to prepare for this adventure.

 

What are some of the best driving backroads in Utah?

Following are some of the best driving backroads in Utah:

  • Logan Canyon Scenic Byway: We suggest taking this picturesque drive in the fall so you can enjoy the colorful foliage along the route.
  • Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway: Since this drive is over 500 miles, feel free to break up the trip to ensure you have time to visit towns and sites along the way.
  • Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway: This popular route is ideal for enjoying seasonal flowers and fall foliage. However, the road is closed in the winter.

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Markagunt Plateau, Utah 84762, USA