The 3 Best Scenic Drives Around Utah County
Sometimes the best way to appreciate Utah Valley’s beauty is simply to roll down the windows and hit the road. Scenic drives here offer more than just a change of scenery—they offer mountain air, wide-open vistas, and that unmistakable feeling of wanting to pull over every five minutes for another photo. Whether you're chasing fall colors, wildflower blooms, or just a quiet escape, these drives prove that the journey really can be the destination.
The Alpine Loop remains one of Utah Valley’s most iconic drives for good reason. Winding through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest between American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon, the loop delivers nonstop views of towering peaks, dense forests, and seasonal wildflowers. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Alpine Scenic Loop (SR-92) is a narrow, winding road famous for fall color drives, leading past Robert Redford's year-round Sundance Resort. The loop begins at the mouth of American Fork Canyon on SR-92 at 5,000 feet elevation and follows the canyon to its crest at 8,000 feet. From the summit, the road winds down towards Provo Canyon and US-189. Lush vegetation characterizes this route, and vistas of Mt. Timpanogos are visible through impressive aspen groves. Campgrounds and picnic areas are numerous, and trails lead from the road into the Mt. Timpanogos and Lone Peak Wilderness Areas. The Byway is a particularly popular autumn drive.Explore Utah Valley+3Forest Service+3Forest Service+3
Nebo Loop National Scenic Byway
The Nebo Loop National Scenic Byway offers a more rugged, breathtaking journey along the spine of Utah County’s highest peak—Mount Nebo. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the byway spans about 38 miles, weaving through a dramatic landscape of alpine meadows, aspen groves, and panoramic overlooks. In the summer and early fall, the route explodes with color, from the pinks of wildflowers to the fiery reds and golds of changing leaves. The Nebo Loop feels wilder and less traveled than some of the valley’s more famous routes, which only adds to its appeal.
Hobble Creek Canyon offers an easygoing drive that’s as accessible as it is scenic. Starting just east of Springville, the canyon’s road follows Hobble Creek through a corridor of towering trees and gently rising hills. According to Utah Valley’s tourism site, Hobble Creek is a favorite for casual Sunday drives, fishing trips, and fall color tours. The lower canyon features picnic areas and parks, while Upper Hobble Creek offers a more secluded, rugged experience for those willing to explore a little deeper. It’s a slice of quiet countryside without ever feeling too far from town.
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