When you want to capture incredible views of the Beehive State, you can hop in your car and drive on one of the many scenic byways in Utah. On some of these beautiful roads, you can lay back and relax as you explore. But for others, you must exercise a little more caution. Moki Dugway Scenic Backway is one of these scarier scenic drives in Utah, but every mile is worth it.
Moki Dugway Scenic Backway is a portion of Highway 261 in southern Utah, near Mexican Hat. While most of the highway is paved, this section of the road is not.
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Moki Dugway Scenic Backway in Utah is considered one of the most dangerous stretches of road in the entire country. You will have approximately three miles of continual switchbacks on an unpaved road, along the side of a cliff, at an 11% grade.
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However, if you are willing to brave the road, you won’t regret it. This is also one of the most scenic stretches of road in the Beehive State.
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You will drive along steep cliff walls. In fact, this road has been carved right out of the cliffs of Cedar Mesa.
earleliason/iStock Via Getty Images Plus The speed limit on the road is only 5 miles per hour and believe us, you’ll want to follow it. Between the sharp switchbacks and the narrow road, slow is best.
As you climb, you’ll get glimpses of the landscapes around you. Pay attention as you can see the Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley in the distance.
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Once you reach the top of Cedar Mesa, pull over at Muley Point. This is one of the best overlooks in Utah and you’ll be able to see for miles.
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This overlook provides views of the San Juan River, Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods, and desert landscape. It’s absolutely beautiful.
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The drive may certainly be frightening but the views are going to take your breath away.
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Before you venture on the Moki Dugway Scenic Backway, be aware that there are no services along the road. This is a narrow roadway so always be on the lookout for other automobiles. There are no guardrails and large vehicles, RVs, and automobiles towing trailers are advised to drive on this road with extra caution.
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The speed limit on the road is only 5 miles per hour and believe us, you’ll want to follow it. Between the sharp switchbacks and the narrow road, slow is best.
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Denise Taylor/Moment Via Getty Images
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Have you ever driven on the Moki Dugway Scenic Backway in Utah? What did you think of this gravel road? Did you stop at the Muley Point Overlook? We’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! For more information on this scenic backway in Utah, click here.
If you are looking for even more scenic byways in Utah to explore, here are 13 that you must add to your bucket list.
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Address: Highway 261, UT-261, Mexican Hat, UT, USA
