Bicentennial Scenic Highway

Experience the beauty of nature and history along the Bicentennial Scenic Highway. This 233 km road trip starts in Hanksville, Utah and ends in Bluff, Utah, and passes through incredible landscapes, historical sites, and overlooks. The best time of the year to drive this route is from April to October, when temperatures are mild and roads are open. Along the route, you will find Hite Overlook, a stunning viewpoint of the Colorado River Basin, and the San Juan River. Be aware that the road conditions along the route can be poor, and the route can be partly curvy. Seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur, so please plan accordingly. This road trip is suitable for every driver and can be managed with moderate budget. It is recommended to complete this road trip in 1 day.

Hanksville, Utah is a small town located in the south-western part of the United States. It is the perfect starting point for the Bicentennial Scenic Highway, an incredible road trip that takes you on a journey through some of the most stunning scenery in the state. Hanksville is home to some of the most interesting sights in the area, including Goblin Valley State Park, the Great Gallery petroglyphs, and the Hanksville-Burpee Dinosaur Quarry. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby San Rafael Swell, a vast area of rugged canyons, towering plateaus, and a plethora of outdoor activities. If you are traveling by air, the closest international airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (IATA code SLC). Car rental services are available at the airport. Once you pick up your car, you can drive the 75 miles to Hanksville and start your journey along the Bicentennial Scenic Highway. So, if you're looking for a great starting point for a road trip in Utah, look no further than Hanksville. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and great outdoor activities, it's the perfect place to kick off an unforgettable journey.

Get ready for a wonderful road trip through the beautiful desert of Utah! Start your journey in Hanksville and drive to Hite Overlook, a 42 mi drive that will take you less than an hour. Along the way, you will be able to admire the stunning desert landscape and its unique rock formations, as well as the winding roads that will take you to the top of the overlook. Please note that some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly. Once you get to the overlook, you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the surrounding area. Don't forget to take some pictures! More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Then start your journey in Hite Overlook, United States, and end in Bluff, 102mi away, with a driving time of fewer than 2 hours. On this route, you will be able to enjoy picturesque landscapes, scenic roads, and the majestic beauty of nature. Be aware that some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, and some sections may be very winding. Don’t forget to stop and take pictures of the amazing views! Remember that this is only one part of a larger tour, so make sure to check out the “Itinerary” for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!

Bluff, located in the four corners region of the United States, is the perfect ending point for a road trip down the Bicentennial Scenic Highway. Bluff is a great place to explore and take in some of the most stunning views in the country. The Valley of the Gods is a must-see for its amazing rock formations and mesas. The Comb Ridge, a geological formation that spans for miles, offers some of the most breathtaking views. For a more relaxed experience, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is the perfect spot for a picnic and a peaceful stroll. For those arriving in Bluff by car, the nearby Goosenecks State Park is an excellent spot for camping and exploring. The views of the San Juan River winding through the canyons are stunning. The nearby Natural Bridges National Monument is also worth a visit. Its three natural bridges are impressive and provide a great view of the surrounding area. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is at Salt Lake City, with IATA code SLC. Once there, car rental is available and is the best way to get to Bluff. No matter how you get there, Bluff is a great destination to finish off a road trip down the Bicentennial Scenic Highway. With its stunning views and great outdoor activities, it's the perfect place to end your journey.

Before you set off

Embarking on the Bicentennial Scenic Highway Road Trip is an invitation to explore the diverse landscapes and rich history of Southeastern Utah. Spanning approximately 233 kilometers (145 miles) from Hanksville to Bluff, this route is a testament to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Travelers are treated to an array of stunning geological formations, ancient cultural sites, and the vast wilderness that captures the spirit of the American Southwest.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Among the must-visit destinations is the Hite Overlook, offering panoramic views of Glen Canyon and the confluence of the Colorado and Dirty Devil Rivers—a truly majestic sight where the waterways merge. Another highlight is the Goosenecks State Park, where the San Juan River has carved a series of tight loops known as an entrenched meander, creating a visual spectacle. Additionally, the route provides access to Natural Bridges National Monument, which showcases some of the largest natural bridges in the world, sculpted by the power of water erosion over millennia.

Best Time to Go:

The Road Trip is most enjoyable from April to October, when the weather is warm, and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak. During this period, visitors are likely to experience clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, photography, and exploring the various historical sites along the highway.

Potential Risks:

While the journey is breathtaking, it is not without its challenges. Roadtrippers should be prepared for sections of winding Roads that demand careful navigation, especially in the Moki Dugway area, where steep grades and tight switchbacks can be intimidating. Additionally, flash floods can occur during the monsoon season (July to September), potentially affecting Road conditions. Always check local weather and Road reports before setting out on your adventure.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This scenic route is suitable for most drivers, including those on a moderate budget. To fully immerse in the experience, it's recommended to allocate at least a full day for the journey. This allows time to stop at various points of interest, take photographs, and appreciate the expansive vistas without feeling rushed. For those interested in camping, there are several campgrounds and dispersed camping areas along the route where one can spend the night under the stars.

A good choice for:

The Bicentennial Scenic Highway is more than just a Road; it's a passage through time, where every mile tells a story of earth's geological past and the human history that unfolded in this rugged terrain. From the prehistoric cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans to the modern-day feats of engineering, this Road Trip is a profound exploration of the wild, untamed heart of Utah. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, the Bicentennial Scenic Highway is a journey that promises to captivate and inspire.