Winding through southwestern Utah’s red rock country, the Zion Scenic Byway delivers 28 miles of jaw-dropping desert scenery as it travels from La Verkin to the eastern boundary of Zion National Park near Mt. Carmel Junction.

This National Scenic Byway follows State Route 9 through a landscape sculpted by millions of years of geological forces. Towering sandstone cliffs in shades of crimson, coral, and cream rise dramatically from the canyon floor, while the Virgin River carves its path through the terrain below. The route passes through the charming gateway towns of Virgin, Rockville, and Springdale, each offering local eateries, galleries, and outfitters.

The crown jewel awaits at Zion National Park, where the byway continues through the famous Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel—a 1.1-mile engineering marvel blasted through solid rock in the 1920s. Emerging on the east side, you’ll encounter the otherworldly Checkerboard Mesa and sweeping views of slickrock formations.

Spring and fall offer ideal driving conditions with mild temperatures and smaller crowds. Summer brings desert heat but spectacular monsoon skies. Allow two to three hours for the drive with stops, or a full day if you plan to hike the park’s iconic trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows.

Explore Nearby

• Orderville Canyon WSA — Public Land in Utah
• Shunes Creek Wild and Scenic River — Public Land in Utah
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park — State Park in Utah
• Quail Creek State Park — State Park in Utah
• Grand Canyon National Park Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Arizona