Must-Do Drives in the Greater Zion Area

Scenic Routes and Local History

1. Smithsonian Butte Scenic Byway

Route Details: This backcountry byway travels between Rockville and Apple Valley, roughly paralleling the southern boundary of Zion National Park. The road isn't paved, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Scenic Highlights and History: Named after Smithsonian Butte, which dominates much of the drive's landscape, this byway is steeped in the area’s mining history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region was bustling with mining activities, particularly for copper and gypsum. The byway itself offers majestic views of Zion National Park to the north and Canaan Mountain Wilderness to the south. It's a route less traveled, providing a glimpse into the untouched landscapes where early settlers and Native American tribes once roamed.

Grafton, Utah: A Peek into the Past and just a short drive from Zion National Park, the ghost town of Grafton, Utah, offers a poignant glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life. Established in 1859 by Mormon settlers, Grafton was abandoned in the early 20th century but has been meticulously preserved to showcase its historical significance. Visitors can explore the original schoolhouse, church, and several homes, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery that also caught the eye of Hollywood in the classic film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

This beautifully preserved ghost town provides a quiet, reflective experience for visitors interested in the resilience of early American settlers and the rich history that shaped the region. A visit to Grafton is an ideal complement to the natural wonders explored through Zion Glamping Adventures, offering a deeper understanding of the area's heritage.

2. Kolob Terrace Road

Route Details: Heading north from the town of Virgin, Kolob Terrace Road takes you deep into the heart of Zion National Park, passing through diverse landscapes including high plateaus, forested trails, and the lesser-known part of Zion known as the backcountry.

Scenic Highlights and History: This drive ascends to over 8,000 feet, offering varied climates and ecosystems as well as spectacular views of the park’s west side. Historically, this area was used by Native American tribes such as the Paiute and Anasazi for seasonal hunting and gathering. Today, it provides access to several trailheads and the sublime solitude of Kolob Reservoir, a contrast to the more frequented areas of Zion.

3. Kolob Canyons Drive

Route Details: This five-mile drive off I-15 north of St. George offers an easy, quick escape into the stunning Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park.

Scenic Highlights and History: The road ends at the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint, where you can gaze upon the crimson canyons and rugged peaks that are part of the Colorado Plateau’s grand geology. This area is rich in geological history, visible in the layered sedimentary rock formations that date back millions of years. Kolob Canyons is also historically significant as a natural corridor used by various indigenous groups over millennia and by early Mormon settlers in the 19th century.

4. Drive from Coral Pink Sand Dunes to East Zion

Route Details: Starting from Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park near Kanab, this drive takes you northeast toward Mount Carmel Junction, passing through diverse landscapes before connecting with Highway 9, which leads into the eastern entrance of Zion National Park.

Scenic Highlights and History: Coral Pink Sand Dunes are known for their unique hue, which is the result of Navajo sandstone erosion. The drive from the dunes to East Zion cuts through historic lands once roamed by dinosaurs—fossil tracks have been found in the area—and later inhabited by Native American tribes. As you approach East Zion, you'll pass through regions that were crucial in the development of Southern Utah, including areas settled by Mormon pioneers in the mid-1800s who used the natural resources to build their communities.

Each of these drives offers not only a visual feast but also a rich narrative of the human and geological history that has shaped the Greater Zion area. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply in search of a peaceful drive, these routes promise a rewarding experience filled with awe-inspiring views and educational opportunities. Don’t forget to stop at local visitor centers to learn more about the historical significance of these areas and to pick up maps and safety tips to enhance your journey.