Discover the Majestic Scenic Drives of St. George, Utah

Introduction: A Gateway to Natural Wonders

St. George, Utah serves as the perfect launching point for some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the American Southwest. I’ve spent countless hours exploring these routes, and I’m excited to share them with you. From the towering sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park to the striking red rock landscapes of Snow Canyon, the area offers a remarkable diversity of natural wonders that are best appreciated from the comfort of your vehicle. Whether you’re planning a family road trip or seeking the perfect photography spots, these scenic drives deliver unforgettable panoramic views that showcase Southern Utah’s spectacular geology.

Zion Park Scenic Byway (Highway 9)

The Zion Park Scenic Byway (Highway 9) stands as the crown jewel of St. George area drives. This 54-mile paved route takes approximately 1.5 hours one-way and guides you through some of Utah’s most impressive landscapes. The journey begins near Hurricane from I-15, passing Quail Creek State Park and the historic Grafton ghost town before entering Zion National Park.

The highlight of this drive is undoubtedly the iconic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway with its remarkable features:

• The famous red tunnel carved through solid sandstone
• Dramatic switchbacks offering elevated perspectives of the canyon
• Stunning views of towering formations like Checkerboard Mesa
• Numerous pullouts where you can safely stop for photos

For those willing to stretch their legs, the Canyon Overlook Trail provides a relatively short hike with panoramic vistas that perfectly complement your driving experience. As a national scenic byway, this route accommodates all standard vehicles and remains one of my top recommendations for first-time visitors to the St. George region.

Smithsonian Butte National Backcountry Byway

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Smithsonian Butte National Backcountry Byway delivers adventure alongside spectacular views. This 9-mile unpaved route connects Highway 9 and Highway 59, offering a less-traveled path with extraordinary perspectives.

What makes this drive special is the sweeping panoramas of Zion’s East and West Temples, North Guardian Angel, and the impressive Canaan Mountain. At the high point of the drive, you’ll find yourself gazing across the entire Virgin River Valley—a view that simply takes your breath away.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Four-wheel drive is recommended in winter or after rainfall
• The road has no facilities, so come prepared
• Allow extra time for photo stops and to navigate the unpaved sections

Having driven this route in various seasons, I can tell you that early morning or late afternoon light creates magical conditions for photography, with the red rock formations seemingly glowing from within.

Kolob Canyon Scenic Drive

The Kolob Canyon Scenic Drive offers a perfect introduction to the less-visited northwestern section of Zion National Park. This 10-mile paved roundtrip adventure climbs steadily through a series of finger canyons, revealing increasingly dramatic views of crimson cliffs and deep ravines.

The drive culminates at the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint, where you can see the full panorama of what locals often call “Zion’s secret half.” The contrast between the deep red sandstone and the green pine forests creates a stunning visual that’s perfect for photography.

What I appreciate about this drive is its accessibility—it’s fully paved and manageable in any standard vehicle. Despite being part of Zion National Park, this section tends to be less crowded than the main canyon, making it a peaceful alternative for those seeking tranquility alongside scenic beauty.

Snow Canyon Road

Just a short distance from St. George lies Snow Canyon State Park, where the 7-mile Snow Canyon Road showcases some of the region’s most unique geological features. This drive combines both paved and gravel sections as it winds through a landscape where ancient lava flows meet Navajo sandstone.

What makes this drive distinctive are the fascinating features you’ll encounter:

• Black lava fields contrasting against red canyon walls
• Ancient lava tubes you can explore on short side hikes
• Pristine sand dunes that shift with the seasons
• Petrified sand dunes from ancient deserts

The road provides access to numerous hiking trails, making this an ideal destination if you want to combine scenic driving with outdoor activities. I often recommend Snow Canyon to families visiting the St. George area because it offers big scenery on a manageable scale, without the crowds of larger national parks.

Vermilion Cliffs Highway

For those with more time and a sense of adventure, the Vermilion Cliffs Highway presents an epic 277-mile journey through some of the most dramatic landscapes of the Colorado Plateau. This extended route showcases the massive red escarpments of the Vermilion Cliffs themselves, along with views into Marble Canyon and across to the Kaibab Plateau.

While this drive requires more commitment than the others on this list, the rewards are proportionately greater. You’ll experience vast, open spaces where the horizon seems endless and the geological story of the region is written in the multi-hued layers of rock.

If you decide to tackle this longer route, consider:

• Breaking the journey into multiple days
• Carrying plenty of water and supplies
• Checking weather conditions before departing
• Planning your fuel stops carefully

Having driven this route several times, I can assure you that the ever-changing light on these massive geological formations creates a dynamic experience that’s different with each visit.

Conclusion: Embrace the Scenic Beauty

St. George truly stands as a gateway to some of Utah’s most spectacular scenic drives. Whether you choose the accessibility of Zion Park Scenic Byway, the rugged adventure of Smithsonian Butte, or any of the other routes we’ve explored, you’re sure to create lasting memories of Southern Utah’s remarkable landscapes. Pack your camera, bring plenty of water, and prepare to be amazed by the natural wonders that await around every bend in the road.