Three Utah scenic drives rank on list of nation’s favorite gravel roads
Sep 9, 2025, 8:00 AM | Updated: 6:07 pm
(Canva)
(Canva)
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah scenic drives provide endless access to beautiful views and recreation opportunities. A new study ranked three gravel roads in the state among the nation’s favorites.
The study was carried out by Potamkin Hyundai, a car dealership in Florida. It asked 3,001 drivers, who regularly take road trips, about their favorite U.S. gravel drives.
“There’s something uniquely satisfying about a gravel drive — the crunch of tires on loose stone, the sense of freedom as pavement gives way to open skies, and the way these roads often lead to places most travelers never see,” wrote Potamkin Hyundai.
The following Utah scenic drives made the list:
#21 — Cathedral Valley Road, Capitol Reef National Park
Tucked into Capitol Reef National Park’s North District, Cathedral Valley Road is part of the rugged 57.6 mile Cathedral Valley Loop Scenic Drive.
Following the trail, drivers make their way down a washboarded, often rocky road, passing magnificent rock formations and stunning desert views.
The Temple of the Sun (at middle of photo) and The Temple of the Moon (at back, left side of photo) are in the Cathedral Valley of Capitol Reef National Park. (Ravell Call/Deseret News)
Per the National Park Service, high clearance vehicles are required to explore the area, and four-wheel drive is highly recommended. Road conditions vary based on weather and season and should be verified by a ranger before embarking on the trek.
#29 — Skyline Drive, Manti-La Sal National Forest
Skyline Drive runs along the Manti-La Sal National Forest’s high ridges, which sit at elevations above 10,000 feet.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the gravel road climbs the Wasatch Plateau after departing US-6, continuing for 27 miles. The Utah scenic drive provides stunning scenic views.
Similar to Cathedral Valley, cellular service in the area is unreliable. High clearance vehicles are also recommended.
During the winter, the gravel road is closed to passenger vehicles, but the Forest Service said it is groomed for snowmobiles.
#37 — Burr Trail, southern Utah
The Burr Trail, which includes a section of gravel road, connects the town of Boulder to Lake Powell’s Bullfrog Marina. The approximately 70-mile journey boasts views of the Waterpocket Fold, Long Canyon and red Circle Cliffs, while leading drivers through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Capitol Reef and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Per the National Park Service, flash flooding can happen quickly. Conditions can be checked by calling the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center at (435) 826-5499.
Do not enter narrow canyons or desert washes during storms and monitor the sky during your journey.
Things to remember when visiting a Utah scenic drive
When visiting these Utah scenic drives, or others, remember to pack out all trash and food scraps. Avoid feeding wildlife, and leave the scenery as you’ve found it — do not pick wildflowers, carve trees or deface rock formations.
Wildflowers dot a green landscape in the Uinta Mountains. (Inspired Summit Adventures)
Additionally, safety experts recommend packing a first aid kit, basic car repair kit and plenty of food and water. In the event of an emergency, these supplies could save your life or help you get back on the road.
The American Red Cross recommended jumper cables, a tire repair kit and a shovel as some necessities. For a first aid kit? It recommended adhesive bandages, sterile gloves and antibiotic ointment. To read about all its recommended supplies, visit its website.
“Gravel roads have a magic all their own. They remind us that travel isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the unexpected moments along the way,” a Potamkin Hyundai spokesperson said.
