Utah Travel Guide 2012 - 43

CENTRAL UTAH

SOUTHERN UTAH

The Energy Loop - Huntington/Eccles National Scenic Byway
SR-31 from Fairview to Huntington / SR-264 and SR-96 from Fairview to Colton
Passing through more than 100 million years of geological history along its 85-miles, Utah State Highways 31, 264, and 96 combine to form the Huntington-Eccles Scenic Byway. Visitors will discover why this Byway is known as the “Energy Loop” when they pass a working power plant, natural gas wells, a coal mine, and the railroad. Visitors learn of the hardships of the first generation coal miners and railroaders while traveling to elevations of over 10,000 feet, constantly changing landscape and geologic strata make the drive exhilarating during any season.

Patchwork Parkway National Scenic Byway
SR-143 from Parowan to Panguitch
During a winter snowstorm in 1864, Mormon pioneers traversed this unforgettable mountain road by throwing down handmade quilts onto the snow, stepping on them gingerly to prevent them from sinking. Slowly they miraculously completed their harrowing journey. Patchwork Parkway passes Brian Head Resort and stunning Cedar Breaks National Monument. Stop at the interpretive sites to learn more about the area’s Mormon pioneer heritage.

Nebo Loop National Scenic Byway
Forest Service Road 15 between Payson and Nephi
A winding drive between Payson and Nephi, this 32-mile scenic drive crosses the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and provides views of Utah Valley, the Wasatch Mountains, and spectacular vistas of 11,928foot Mt. Nebo, the highest mountain in the Wasatch Range. Check out Devil’s Kitchen Geologic Interest Site, which features red rock formations set against brilliant foliage that is an autumn favorite.

Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway
From Monticello to Monument Valley, Blanding to Mexican Hat via Natural Bridges, and Bluff to Hovenweep then east into Colorado
The Trail of the Ancients provides access to numerous examples of Ancestral Puebloan culture and is replete with archaeological and cultural intrigue. The Trail offers access to other aspects of Four Corners history and culture as well as stunning scenic vistas. A tour of the Utah portion of the Trail of the Ancients includes Four Corners Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park & Museum, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, and many other areas of interest.

Scenic Byway 12, All-American Road
From Panguitch to Torrey
Scenic Byway Highway 12 is Utah’s first and only nationally-designated All-American Road. Passing through twisting canyons, red rock towers, pine forests, and pioneer towns, you will experience one of this nation’s most beautiful drives. Punctuating the drive are breathtaking panoramas, national parks and monuments, recreation areas, and state parks. In winter, make sure to inquire locally for road conditions.

All-American ROAD

Utah Travel Guide 2012

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Utah Travel Guide 2012