The American Southwest is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes in the world. From the Grand Canyon to Monument Valley to the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, this region offers an incredible diversity of natural wonders for travelers to explore. One of the best ways to experience the beauty and solitude of the Southwest is by taking a road trip through southern Utah.
Scenic Byways Offer Stunning Vistas
Southern Utah has several nationally-designated scenic byways that showcase the area’s most breathtaking vistas. These routes take drivers through parks, canyons, plateaus, and along stunning cliffsides. Some don’t allow commercial vehicles, offering passenger cars exclusive access. Driving these byways you’ll feel immersed in the landscape, with colors and textures changing by the mile.
The Highway 12 Scenic Byway may be the most spectacular of them all. This route winds through remote wilderness and the Dixie National Forest, with stops at Red Canyon’s crimson hoodoos and the steep cliffs of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Ranchers first carved this unpaved wagon route in the late 1800s, and slices of history remain today. Other scenic drives like UT-14 and UT-143 are equally as majestic.
Diverse National and State Parks Await
From hiking trails to pioneer history to dark night skies, southern Utah’s national parks are true treasures. Bryce Canyon National Park is otherworldly, with orange and white sandstone spires dotting the natural amphitheater. Meanwhile, Capitol Reef National Park contains wrinkles in the earth’s crust forming 100-mile long cliffs and domed rocks bearing ancient petroglyphs.
Beyond the national parks, destinations like Snow Canyon State Park and Goblin Valley State Park offer more secluded adventures. Snow Canyon has dunes, lava tubes, and petrified sand, with trails for all abilities. Goblin Valley’s trails wind through thousands of mushroom-shaped hoodoos, providing a Martian landscape. From camping to stargazing to photography, state parks provide outdoor recreation without the crowds.
Small Towns Offer Charm and Hospitality
While southern Utah is known for its natural beauty, its small towns have their own charm and hospitality. Places like Moab, Springdale, Kanab, and Torrey offer locally-owned restaurants, shops, galleries, and outfitters to stock up for adventures.
Moab is a hub for mountain biking, rafting, and 4×4 exploration. Grab breakfast at Love Muffin Cafe or tacos at Miguel’s Baja Grill before venturing into nearby Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Just south, Bluff combines Wild West history with modern amenities.
Further east, Springdale and Kanab provide epic park access. Springdale is Zion National Park’s gateway, with Zion Mountain Ranch’s home cooking and Bit & Spur’s Southwestern fare. Kanab sits near the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and more. Its Western movie history remains today.
Iconic Pit Stops Enhance the Journey
While simply driving through southern Utah’s landscapes impresses, several pit stops enhance a road trip’s sense of adventure. Visitors shouldn’t miss seeing Delicate Arch, the fireside cowboy songs at Capitol Reef’s Gifford Homestead, and the pioneer past at Kanab’s Johnson Canyon Movie Set.
Delicate Arch is an iconic Utah landmark, with the sandstone arch perched precariously atop a slickrock slope. After a strenuous hike, you’ll see it glowing fiery red at sunset. Capitol Reef’s historic pioneer homestead offers campfire programs bringing 1880s ranch life back to life. And Kanab’s movie set lets you walk through a replica Old West town used in classic Westerns.
The Journey is Part of the Destination
A road trip through southern Utah’s epic terrain makes the journey every bit as memorable as the destination. Stop frequently to take in the sweeping views. Treasure the moments spent in national and state parks away from crowds and city life. Spend time in the region’s small towns to appreciate local culture. A southwest road trip will create memories to last a lifetime.
So if you’re looking for adventure this year, consider putting southern Utah on your travel list. Just be sure your vehicle is ready for the journey with a safety inspection and tune up. The open roads await!
If you or a loved one are unfortunately involved in a car accident while road tripping, consider contacting a personal injury attorney St George Utah for guidance on your legal options and protections. Their expertise can be invaluable after an unexpected collision.
