“There is nothing so American as our national parks.”
— Theodore Roosevelt
$14.99
Zion Scenic Byway’s Road to Heaven Driving Tour
Discover one of the most spectacular drives in the American Southwest on this self-guided Zion National Park driving tour along the famous Zion Park Scenic Byway (Highway 9).
This immersive audio tour takes you from Hurricane, Utah to Mount Carmel Junction, guiding you through towering red cliffs, hidden ghost towns, historic tunnels, and the dramatic landscapes that make Zion one of the most visited national parks in the United States.
As you drive, stories automatically play when you reach key locations, bringing the scenery to life with tales of pioneers, Native American history, daring engineering feats, and unforgettable natural wonders.
Along the way you’ll discover:
• The famous Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, blasted through solid red rock in the 1920s
• Grafton Ghost Town, one of the most photographed ghost towns in the American West
• Hurricane Mesa, where the Air Force launched rocket sled tests with crash dummy “Hurricane Sam”
• Hidden swimming spots along the Virgin River
• Scenic overlooks of Zion Canyon’s towering sandstone cliffs
• The famous Checkerboard Mesa formation
• Historic pioneer towns that helped open Zion to the world
This Zion National Park scenic byway driving tour lets you explore at your own pace while learning the fascinating stories behind the landscapes.
Tour Highlights / What You'll See
• Drive the stunning Zion National Park Scenic Byway (Highway 9) through towering red rock cliffs
• Explore Grafton Ghost Town, where pioneers rebuilt the town multiple times after floods and attacks
• Learn the wild story of Hurricane Mesa, where crash test dummy “Hurricane Sam” was launched at supersonic speeds
• Swim or tube in the Virgin River at Sheep Bridge Falls Park, a local hidden gem
• Drive through the mile-long Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, one of the most ambitious road projects of its time
• Stop at Pine Creek Canyon Overlook for breathtaking canyon views
• See the famous Checkerboard Mesa, one of Zion’s most unique rock formations
• Discover the stories of the Southern Paiute people, who lived in this region for thousands of years
• Experience the dramatic entrance into Zion Canyon, one of America’s most iconic landscapes
Price:
$14.99
Tour Route Map
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does the Zion Scenic Byway driving tour take?
This Zion National Park driving tour takes about 90 minutes if you drive straight through, but most travelers spend 3 to 5 hours enjoying the stops, scenic overlooks, and short hikes along the Zion Park Scenic Byway.
Where does the Zion driving tour start?
The tour begins at Zion Harley-Davidson in Hurricane, Utah, a convenient starting point with parking, restrooms, and places to grab snacks before heading onto Highway 9 and the Zion National Park Scenic Byway.
Where does the tour end?
The driving tour ends at Mount Carmel Junction, where Highway 9 meets Highway 89. From here you can continue your road trip toward Bryce Canyon, Kanab, or the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Do I need to pay an entrance fee for Zion National Park?
Yes. Zion National Park typically charges an entrance fee of about $35 per vehicle, which is valid for seven days. If you have the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass, you can enter with that pass instead.
Does the tour work without internet?
Yes. Once the tour is downloaded, it works offline with GPS. The stories automatically play as you reach locations along the Zion National Park Scenic Byway.
Can I start the tour anywhere along the route?
Yes. While the recommended start is in Hurricane, Utah, you can also begin the tour anywhere along Highway 9, including Springdale or Mount Carmel Junction.
Is this the same as the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive shuttle route?
No. This tour follows the Zion Scenic Byway (Highway 9) which crosses the park from west to east. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive inside the park is often closed to private vehicles and requires a shuttle bus during much of the year.
What are the best stops along the Zion Scenic Byway?
Some of the most popular stops on this Zion National Park driving tour include Grafton Ghost Town, the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, Pine Creek Canyon Overlook, Checkerboard Mesa, and the Virgin River at Sheep Bridge Falls Park.
What is the Zion National Park Scenic Byway?
The Zion National Park Scenic Byway is the section of Utah State Route 9 that runs through Zion National Park from Springdale to Mount Carmel Junction. This road crosses the park from west to east and includes famous sights like the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, Checkerboard Mesa, and dramatic canyon viewpoints.
Can you drive through Zion National Park?
Yes, you can drive through Zion National Park on the Zion Park Scenic Byway (Highway 9). This scenic road allows visitors to cross the park by car, passing through towering cliffs, winding canyon roads, and the historic Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.
Is a driving tour the best way to see Zion National Park?
A Zion National Park driving tour is one of the best ways to experience the park, especially if you want to see the highlights in a single day. The Zion Scenic Byway offers incredible views, historic landmarks, and scenic pullouts while allowing visitors to explore the park at their own pace.