Big Spring Canyon Scenic Drive

Take a scenic drive through Big Spring Canyon in the United States and enjoy the breathtaking views of the area. The 89km journey starts in Monticello and ends at the Big Spring Canyon Overlook. It’s best to plan for a full day to make the most of the drive, as you will want to take your time to appreciate the stunning views. The route offers a variety of landscapes from rolling hills to deep canyons. The roads are generally in good condition, although some parts of the road are narrow and winding. Be aware that some sections of the drive may be closed seasonally due to weather conditions. This road trip offers an unforgettable experience for any driver, and is sure to create lasting memories. It can be done on a moderate budget, making it a great option for any budget traveler.

Monticello is a small town in the United States, located in the state of Utah. It is a great starting point for the Big Spring Canyon Scenic Drive, a road trip that takes you through some of the most beautiful and mesmerizing scenery in the region. Monticello itself offers plenty of attractions, such as the Monticello LDS Temple and the Monticello Historical Museum. You can also explore the town’s many parks and trails, including the scenic Red Cloud Trail. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and galleries to explore. If you are flying to Monticello, the closest international airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (IATA code SLC). There are car rentals available at the airport, so you can pick up a car and start your Big Spring Canyon Scenic Drive right away! Monticello is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip. Make sure to check out all of the attractions the town has to offer, and then hit the open road to explore the magnificent sights of the Big Spring Canyon Scenic Drive!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Monticello to Big Spring Canyon Overlook! This 55mi journey will take you fewer than 2 hours of driving, and you will be able to experience some of the most beautiful sights in the US. From the majestic Canyonlands National Park to the picturesque Big Spring Canyon Overlook, this is a journey you will never forget! When you're driving, make sure to take the scenic route and admire the stunning views of the canyon. Be aware that some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, and in some sections the road will be quite narrow. No matter how you choose to experience this journey, you are sure to be amazed by the beauty of the landscape. Take your time to appreciate the vastness of the canyon and the unique rock formations. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

Located in the state of Utah, Big Spring Canyon Overlook is the perfect destination to end an epic road trip. The Big Spring Canyon Scenic Drive is a must-do for any traveler looking to explore the area. Taking you through some of the most spectacular views of the Utah desert, the drive is a great way to experience all of the beauty the state has to offer. At the end of the scenic drive lies Big Spring Canyon Overlook, an incredible spot to take in the surrounding beauty. From the overlook, you can see the majestic canyon walls, surrounding mountains, and the colorful desert landscape. It’s the perfect place to take pictures and enjoy the stunning views. Big Spring Canyon Overlook isn’t just a great spot for sightseeing, though. It’s also home to a variety of activities, from rock climbing and hiking to camping and fishing. There are even plenty of trails for mountain biking and off-roading. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). From there, you can easily rent a car and make the two-hour drive to Big Spring Canyon Overlook. No matter how you choose to explore the area, Big Spring Canyon Overlook is a must-see destination. With its stunning views and plethora of activities, it’s the perfect end to a road trip along the Big Spring Canyon Scenic Drive.

Before you set off

The scenic Road Trip through Big Spring Canyon, located in the United States, is a picturesque journey stretching over 55 miles (89 kilometers), beginning in Monticello, Utah, and culminating at the awe-inspiring Big Spring Canyon Overlook in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. This route is a feast for the eyes, offering a day's worth of diverse landscapes ranging from majestic mountains to striking desert rock formations.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Travelers will be treated to a variety of terrains, including verdant rolling hills, deep, dramatic canyons, and expansive high desert ecosystems. The journey's climax is the Big Spring Canyon Overlook, where visitors are greeted by breathtaking views of the Needles, named for their colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone that jut skyward. Along the way, Roadtrippers can also explore Newspaper Rock, a petroglyph panel etched by ancient Indigenous peoples, and the Dugout Ranch, a historic cattle ranch set against the backdrop of Indian Creek Canyon.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time to embark on this Road Trip is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) months when temperatures are mild, and the risk of seasonal closures due to snow or summer monsoons is minimal. These times also offer a dazzling display of wildflowers or fall foliage.

Potential Risks:

This adventure requires cautious driving, particularly on the narrow and winding Roads of Utah's backcountry. Additionally, sudden weather changes can lead to Road closures or hazardous driving conditions, so it's wise to check local weather and Road statuses before and during your Trip.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

The route is well-maintained and typically accessible to all vehicle types, though some side Roads may require high clearance or four-wheel drive. With various camping spots and picnic areas en route, the Trip caters to both moderate and frugal travel budgets, allowing for flexibility in accommodations and dining.

A good choice for:

Embarking on this journey through Big Spring Canyon is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the American Southwest, offering a mix of adventure, tranquility, and awe-inspiring scenery. This Road Trip is not just a means to an end but a chance to create lasting memories and experience the rich geological and cultural history that defines this region.