From the moment I got behind the wheel as a teenager, I loved to drive. It’s always been a happy place for me. I used to take my car out late night in high school and blast music while I zipped around the curvy roads of Bethel, CT, feeling and processing all the heavy emotions that come along with being a teenager. I was always the friend that drove when we went anywhere. I insisted on bringing my car to college. I’ve always felt like the vehicles I drive become my friends and confidantes.

It’s surprising then that I didn’t take a “real” road trip until I met my now husband, Matthew, at age 27. I had gone on very long drives in the past (like from CT to Hilton Head Island where my family vacationed), but the purpose was to get to a destination, not to let the drive be the destination. Needless to say, I fell in love with road-tripping after Matthew and I ventured through South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho on cars, motorcycles, and even a Polaris Slingshot! That’s a story for another post.

Years later, I decided to hit the road solo. It was amazing. Road-tripping with your loved ones is a huge treat, but there is nothing more freeing than exploring unfamiliar territory with just yourself and your car friend. I enjoyed it so much that I’ve set a goal to take at least 1 solo road trip every year.

I’m excited to share in this post some of the most beautiful series of drives I’ve ever experienced in my life (and that is not an exaggeration) – the scenic byways of Utah! I would argue that Utah is one of the top states for a road trip given its varied landscapes, untouched land, and national parks (famously known as the “Mighty 5”). Since I was already in Utah for my friend’s bachelorette, I thought it was a perfect opportunity to tack on a solo exploration of the rest of the state.

I picked up my Ford Mustang Convertible rental from Salt Lake City’s airport and hit the road. I took the Nebo Loop National Scenic Byway to get to Mt Pleasant. Immediately I knew I was in for a treat as I started the drive along windy roads with imposing mountains on either side and epic views of valleys from countless viewpoints. I immediately felt overwhelmingly small amidst such expansive and beautiful nature. It always takes me a second to adjust to that feeling having grown up in the tucked-in nature of the Northeast.

That evening, I stayed at an extremely unique spot, a caboose village called Track 89! It’s exactly as it sounds – a series of restored train cars that now operate as overnight accommodations. My spot was clean, comfortable, and decorated surprisingly well. You will find pickleball courts, frisbee golf, and a great coffee / food spot called Coffee Depot on the premises.

Tip: Make sure to book the correct Caboose Village. I accidentally booked ahead at the one in Sevier and was thankfully able to change it last minute.

I took Energy Loop: Huntington & Eccles Canyon Ntl. Scenic Byway and part of Capitol Reef Country Scenic Byway to get to Torrey. I soaked in more mountain views, planes, expansive scenery that seemed to go for miles, and the most still and glassy lake I’ve ever seen. The roads were empty and the cell service was practically nonexistent which made for a very peaceful and reflective drive.

As I approached Torrey, Utah’s beautiful red rock structures came into view and I pulled into my accommodation for the evening, Torrey Schoolhouse Bed & Breakfast Inn. Torrey Schoolhouse was a fully operating school and cultural center from 1917 to 1954, built from the red sandstone nearby. Its Saturday night dances and sporting events drew crowds, including gangs and outlaws. Despite being a bit creepy staying overnight in an old schoolhouse with old décor, dolls, and bibles, I had a nice stay and was thrilled with the hot communal breakfast served the next morning. The eggs came straight from the owner’s farm.

I also checked out Hunt & Gather restaurant in town for dinner, which had a great vibe, great food, and even better beer.

This was a great, great day. I took what should have been a quick drive on Scenic Byway 12 All-American Road to Escalante, but it took longer than I expected given how many times I was compelled to stop and take photos. I had never seen scenery quite like this. It was like was seeing the earth before life even existed – completely untouched. This area is called Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and is one of the largest national monuments in the US, covering ~1.9 million acres. Descriptions and photos do not do this road justice. You must go and experience it.

That night, I stayed at Ofland (formerly, Yonder Escalante), a camping / glamping spot with deluxe houses, tiny houses, airstreams, and regular campsites. I opted for one of their very special tiny houses and had the coziest sleep in one of the most comfortable beds. But first, I had dinner at 4th West Pub, originally a service station from the 1940s and now the only pub in Escalante or along Scenic Byway 12. They lived up to their motto, “Good vibes only!” I also took full advantage of Ofland’s hot outdoor showers and posted up in the middle of one of its stunning fields with a cold beer and a big smile. Ofland pays attention to every last detail – it’s like a luxury outdoor oasis.

After driving through Bryce Canyon National Park and the stunningly beautiful Zion National Park, I arrived at my destination, Driftwood Lodge in Springdale. I had a great experience there, dining at their restaurant / bar and admiring the beautiful scenery outside of my room.

Later that evening, I drove back through Zion National Park to embark on a sunset guided hike with East Zion Adventures. It was a great group – a young woman as our tour guide and an eclectic older couple. The 4 of us bonded over life stories and when the sun finally peaked out from behind the clouds to put on a magnificent sunset show, we agreed that our late fathers made it happen.

One small story that I must share…

It was pitch dark after the hike, and I had no cell service meaning I couldn’t pull up directions back to my hotel. To give you an idea, the drive was ~45 minutes through windy mountain roads with hairpin turns and steep elevation changes. Given the lack of service, the radio wasn’t working either, so I couldn’t even calm myself with some music.

Nevertheless, I embarked on my drive back, hoping my less-than-stellar memory would serve me. Luckily, a few accurate turns led me to a road I recognized. Phew! At that moment, I decided to try the radio one more time, hoping it might work briefly so I could celebrate with a song. To my surprise, it did – and played my father’s all-time favorite song!

My father passed away years ago, and I’d been thinking about him constantly during my trip since he would have turned 70 that week and would’ve loved everything I experienced. Normally, I’m not one for “signs,” but this one felt incredibly special. It was a perfect end to my adventure.

I woke up fairly early and took off for my final drive to St George Regional Airport. Even the drive to the airport was scenic given that I took the rest of Zion Park Scenic Byway. I returned my car and gave myself a pat on the back for accomplishing a fun solo adventure!

Utah’s scenic byways

An interactive Google Map of my route