Starring the highest mountain in the Wasatch Mountain Range--Mount Nebo--the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway traverses amongst rustic mountain formations, dewy forest mornings, and breathtaking scenic overlooks in some of northern Utah’s finest wilderness. Take a trek on the byway’s abundant trails and find magnificent beauty that will catch your eyes and pique your interest.
Travel about eight miles from the southern terminus of the byway to a haven of stunning scenery: the must-see Devil’s Kitchen, a fascinating rock formation that looks like a miniature Bryce Canyon. Stroll through the forest for a quarter mile to reach a platform overlooking these remarkable red rock columns. Another great “rock” to explore is Mount Nebo itself, on whose flank the byway travels. Named after Mount Nebo in the Old Testament, this mountain tops the second highest mountain in the Wasatch Range, Mount Timpanogos, by 179 feet. Travel to the middle of the byway, about five miles northwest from Devil’s Kitchen, to the Mount Nebo Trailhead, the starting point for a trail to challenge even the most experienced hikers. Pack plenty of water and high-energy food and take off on this nine-mile trail into the Mt. Nebo Wilderness, where you’ll see extraordinary views, vegetation, and wildlife.
Need a break from hiking? Stop at the many overlooks on the byway, where you can watch wildlife, see enchanting views, and read interpretive signs telling stories and natural history about the region. Be sure to check out the Beaver Dam Overlook, the Santaquin Overlook, and the Utah Valley Overlook. For a great view of the Payson Lakes, use the Payson Lake handicapped access trail, complete with picnic areas. Pack a picnic and enjoy the pristine view with your family from the comfort of a picnic table.
If it’s fall foliage you crave, travel the byway during the exquisite fall color driving tour in autumn, when you can travel through a rainbow of colors among the trees of the Uinta National Forest. Remember, the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway is not plowed during the winter, so make your trip before the road closes!
The vast variety of majestic places on the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway will draw you in for hours. Bring your camera and capture these magnificent sites. Come travel the Nebo Loop and find yourself in a fantasy world of incredible scenery and unforgettable views.
Camping on the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway
A Trail for Everyone on the Nebo Loop