Two Scenic Drives In Utah Make National List: Can You Guess Them?

I've made it no secret that one of the pleasure in my life is to hop in the car and just take off on a drive. With all of the natural beauty around us in southern Utah, it's even more of a pleasure. Even though we don't face the stresses that come from life in an overcrowded urban area, a scenic drive offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you wind through serene landscapes, there’s something calming about watching the scenery unfold, whether it's rolling hills, expansive valleys, or towering mountains. The open road stretches ahead, inviting you to relax and enjoy the journey.

If you can drive with the windows down, it's even better as the smell of fresh air along with the sounds of nature enhance your experience. The rhythm of the drive becomes almost meditative, offering a chance to disconnect from the digital world and appreciate nature's beauty at a slower pace.

The folks at Motor Junkie assembled this list of the Top Scenic Drives to Drive in the United States, even though one of the drives they mentioned is in Canada. To no surprise to me, Utah had two on the list. And while I have driven a part of one of them, the other is a new revelation to me.

The first scenic drive they mention is the White Rim Road in Canyonlands National Park. This is not on for the family car, unless your family car is a high clearance, four wheel drive vehicle. The “road” (only 7 miles is paved) is roughly 100 miles and loops around and below the Island In The Sky mesa to. If you were to drive it straight, it would take 10 to 12 hours. The park recommends at least 2 days for the trip, and there are campgrounds on the road. A permit is required for both the use of the road, and campground use.

According to the park website, under favorable conditions, the road is “moderately difficult” for these high clearance, four wheel drive vehicles. Rain can cause flooding along the road, and during those conditions, making the complete loop may be impossible. Bring plenty of water if you plan to make this drive.

The second scenic drive that Motor Junkie mentions is Scenic Byway 12. This one is right in our back yard. If you've made the drive to Bryce Canyon National Park, part of your journey has been on the scenic highway.

The west end of Scenic Byway 12 is just south of Panguitch on U.S. Highway 89. From there you go through the Red Canyon section, go past the turn off to Bryce Canyon National Park, through the town of Tropic, and continue on past the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument over the Boulder Mountains to the town of Torrey where it meets up with Utah Highway 24.

Now, a couple a curios entries I found on the list were the interstate highways through Houston, Texas and Miami, Florida. They are fine cities, to be sure, but I don't know how scenic they are. To each his own, I suppose.

The joy of a scenic drive is that it's not about rushing to reach a destination, but rather enjoying the experience of getting there. Each twist and turn offers new perspectives, and the sense of tranquility that comes with the drive lingers long after you've returned home. It's a simple pleasure, but one that leaves a lasting impression. It's a good thing we have so many choices around us.

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