Scenic Driving in Hurricane & St. George Utah (Complete Guide)

Explore Southern Utah’s Best Views from the Road

Southern Utah is known for its dramatic landscapes, red rock cliffs, desert valleys, and mountain backdrops. The Hurricane and St. George area offers some of the most scenic drives in the Southwest, with routes that take you through national parks, state parks, and remote backcountry.

Whether you’re planning a short drive or a full-day adventure, these scenic routes deliver unforgettable views.

Best Scenic Drives in Southern Utah

Zion National Park Scenic Drive

Location: Springdale, UT
Best For: Iconic canyon views

Zion’s main scenic drive is one of the most famous in the country.

What to expect:

• Towering sandstone cliffs
• Canyon views and river access
• Wildlife sightings
• Shuttle system required during peak seasons

This is a must-do drive for any visitor to the area.

Snow Canyon State Park Scenic Drive

Location: St. George, UT
Best For: Lava flows and red rock contrast

Snow Canyon offers a quieter but equally stunning experience.

What to expect:

• Lava rock formations
• Red and white sandstone cliffs
• Smooth, well-maintained roads
• Easy access and fewer crowds

Sand Hollow State Park Area Drive

Location: Hurricane, UT
Best For: Lake and desert views

Driving around Sand Hollow provides unique views of water against desert terrain.

What to expect:

• Red sand dunes
• Reservoir views
• Access to beaches and OHV areas
• Sunset viewpoints

Kolob Terrace Road

Location: Virgin, UT
Best For: Elevated views and less traffic

Kolob Terrace Road climbs from the desert floor into higher elevations with cooler temperatures.

What to expect:

• Expansive views of Zion
• Open road with minimal traffic
• Access to hiking trails
• Changing scenery from desert to forest

Smithsonian Butte Scenic Drive

Location: Rockville, UT
Best For: Backcountry views near Zion

This dirt road offers one of the most underrated scenic drives in the region.

What to expect:

• Wide desert landscapes
• Views of Zion from above
• Gravel road conditions
• Quiet, remote feel

Red Cliffs Scenic Byway

Location: St. George, UT
Best For: Easy access scenic route

This paved byway provides quick access to scenic desert views without leaving town.

What to expect:

• Red rock formations
• Rolling hills
• Convenient access from St. George

Best Time for Scenic Driving

Morning:

• Soft lighting
• Cooler temperatures
• Fewer crowds

Midday:

• Bright views
• Clear visibility

Evening:

• Best for sunset photography
• Dramatic lighting on red rock formations

Tips for Scenic Driving in Southern Utah

• Bring water and snacks
• Check road conditions, especially for dirt roads
• Fuel up before remote routes
• Watch for wildlife
• Allow extra time for stops and photos

Why Scenic Driving in Southern Utah Is Unique

Few places offer:

• Multiple scenic drives within short distances
• Access to national and state parks
• Diverse terrain from desert to mountain
• Iconic red rock landscapes

This makes Hurricane and St. George a top destination for scenic road trips.

FAQs – Scenic Driving in Hurricane & St. George Utah

What is the most scenic drive near St. George Utah?

Zion National Park Scenic Drive and Snow Canyon Scenic Drive are the most popular and visually stunning routes.

Are there scenic drives near Hurricane Utah?

Yes, Sand Hollow, Kolob Terrace Road, and Smithsonian Butte offer excellent scenic driving options.

Do you need a permit to drive through Zion?

Zion requires an entrance fee, and during peak season, the main scenic drive is accessed by shuttle.

Are these drives suitable for all vehicles?

Most are accessible by standard vehicles, but some backcountry roads like Smithsonian Butte require caution.