Smoky Mountain Road is a beautiful exciting drive in Utah
Usa, north-america
124 km
2,160 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're craving a seriously off-the-grid experience, the Smoky Mountain Scenic Backway in southern Utah is calling your name. Deep in Kane County, you'll find this wild ride cutting through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a 124km (77.4 mile) rocky dirt trail (BLM330 and NP-230) running north to south from Escalante (Scenic Byway 12) to Big Water (Highway 89). Remember, it's a one-way trip!
High-clearance 4WD is non-negotiable. Seriously, don't even think about attempting this in your sedan. And for the love of all that is outdoorsy, avoid this road when it's wet! There are sections that turn into quicksand nightmares.
Set aside about five to six hours for this beauty, and get ready for some serious solitude and scenery. Expect views for days: Lake Powell, the Navajo Mountains, and the Kaiparowits Plateau will leave you breathless.
The road peaks at 2,160m (7,086ft) above sea level. Weather here is no joke, with temperatures ranging from moderate in the spring and fall to scorching in the summer and frigid in the winter. This high clearance track is truly rough and wild.
Be warned: this road is not maintained, crosses numerous washes that can become impassable after rain, and is seriously remote. Bring plenty of water, food, and at least one spare tire (two is even better). Check your vehicle before you go. Oh, and did I mention Kelly's Grade? This thrilling five-mile stretch of switchbacks climbs 1200 feet up the side of the cliffs on the edge of the Kaiparowits Plateau. From the top, the views are epic! But those signs warning “impassible when wet?” They're not kidding.
Ultimately, the Smoky Mountain Scenic Backway is all about disconnecting and embracing the rugged beauty of the Utah wilderness. Just remember to be prepared, be cautious, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
Where is it?
Smoky Mountain Road is a beautiful exciting drive in Utah is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 37.7315, -101.1989
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 124 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,160 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 37.7315, -101.1989
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