Utah's scenic drives showcase some of America's most spectacular landscapes, from towering red rock canyons to alpine mountain passes. These routes provide perfect opportunities for family reunions to explore together, with everyone able to enjoy the stunning views regardless of physical ability. Scenic drives offer flexibility for large groups and create shared experiences through breathtaking natural beauty.
Provo Canyon offers a spectacular mountain canyon drive carved by the Provo River, featuring year-round beauty and easy accessibility just minutes from downtown Provo. The paved scenic route follows the river through stunning mountain landscapes, passing Bridal Veil Falls, a 607-foot double cataract waterfall easily visible from the road. For family reunions, the canyon provides numerous pullouts for photos, picnic areas along the river, and access to the paved recreation trail perfect for short walks. The drive connects to the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway and Sundance Resort, offering options to extend the journey through even more spectacular mountain scenery.
The Arches National Park scenic drive provides access to over 2,000 natural stone arches and spectacular red rock formations via a well-maintained paved road. For family reunions, this 18-mile route offers numerous pullouts and viewpoints where everyone can enjoy the scenery without strenuous hiking. Short walks from parking areas lead to impressive formations like Balanced Rock and the Windows Section, making the park's wonders accessible to all ages and mobility levels. The drive's relatively short length allows families to complete the route in a few hours, leaving time for other Moab activities while still experiencing the park's most iconic features.
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive travels through the heart of Zion National Park, surrounded by massive sandstone cliffs rising up to 2,000 feet. During peak season, the park operates a free shuttle system that eliminates driving stress and allows families to hop on and off at various stops to explore trails and viewpoints. The shuttle route provides spectacular views throughout the journey, with stops at all major attractions including the Zion Lodge, Weeping Rock, and the Temple of Sinawava. For family reunions, the shuttle system makes it easy for large groups to explore together while accommodating different interests and energy levels at each stop.