Bicentennial Highway

Photo - Travel Utah

A Journey Through Time and Beauty

Central and southern Utah is a treasure trove of scenic vistas, ancient history and unique geologic wonders. Among its many striking scenic byways, the Bicentennial Highway stands out as a gateway to some of this region's most breathtaking sights. 

Taking a road trip along this highway provided us with both visual delight and an intimate connection with the ancient past. My wife and I drove this Utah Scenic Byway recently on our 1,800 mile road trip to southern Utah and beyond.

These byways all seem to be named as running south to north. Like the Monument Valley to Bluff Scenic Byway, we did this the opposite way. We drove it north to south from Hanksville to Blanding.

Introducing the Bicentennial Highway

Utah State Route 95 … also known as the Bicentennial Highway … stretches approximately 121 miles from the junction with U.S. Route 191 near Blanding to the quaint town of Hanksville where it meets State Route 24.

Inaugurated in 1976 to commemorate the United States' 200th birthday, this highway not only celebrates the nation's rich history but also provides travelers a front-row seat to Utah's diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes. This one ended up being another favorite on our 8-day sojourn. I must admit, we had a lot of favorites.

Many years ago, on our last trip to Lake Powell, we had taken at least part of this route from Hanksville until it turned south towards Hite and Lake Powell. I am somewhat sad to say that it’s been a long time since we’ve been to Powell. We’ll have to change that.

What Makes It Special?

The Bicentennial Highway is not just a road. It is a passage through time. As you navigate its length, you'll be met with sprawling desert vistas, intricate red rock formations and glimpses of the winding Colorado River.

Much of it seems to be newly paved and I, once again, have to give Utah credit for the condition of their Scenic Byways. Of course, this Byway is also the main north route to Lake Powell.

As the lake tries to make a rebound from our recent drought, its shimmering waters make for a stunning contrast against the desert backdrop while the towering buttes and mesas narrate tales of times long forgotten.

One of the most notable landmarks along the route is the Natural Bridges National Monument. It boasts some of the most spectacular natural stone bridges anywhere formed by the erosive power of water over thousands of years. 

Walking trails and viewpoints provide unparalleled sights and a sense of tranquility that people come to Utah to find but often don’t.

Intersection With the Trail of the Ancients

As you journey along the Bicentennial Highway, you'll intersect with parts of the Trail of the Ancients … another scenic route that digs a little deeper into the history of the region. 

Unlike the Bicentennial Highway, which focuses largely on natural wonders, the Trail of the Ancients emphasizes the archaeological and cultural significance of the Ancestral Puebloan civilizations.

While the Bicentennial Highway offers a captivating drive through the beauty of central and southern Utah, the Trail of the Ancients complements it by unveiling some of the history of the area.

Overlooking the Colorado River

One of the most spectacular vistas on this drive is the overlook thousands of feet above the valley where the Colorado River flows into Lake Powell. It is just south of here where the river flows into and becomes the lake.

We stood at this point and marveled for several minutes. We were able to take some decent photos but it was raining on almost this entire stretch of highway. We enjoyed the rain as it looked like this area doesn’t get a lot.

Right Through The Middle of
Bears Ears National Monument

Bears Ears covers an amazing amount of territory … 1.36 million acres! It seems to go on forever. It is often hard to tell where it begins and where it ends.

The map just kind of includes that entire part of the state. In fact, we were adjacent to Bears Ears when we were down near Bluff on the Monument Valley to Bluff Scenic Byway. I can see why some Utahns thought it was just too big.

Photo - Travel Utah

In Conclusion

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the Bicentennial Highway offers an experience that's hard to match. But then, I could say the same about so many of these Scenic Byways. 

Its blend of natural majesty and historical fascination makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring central and southern Utah. The scenery is ever-changing and “wow’ moments just keep coming. Every time I drive one of these routes, the idea that I need to do it again because it was so cool haunts me.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Canyonlands National Park

Wasatch Mountains

Lake Powell

Zion National Park

Arches National Park

Great Salt Lake

Monument Valley