Scenic Byway 143 follows a 55-mile course between Panguitch and Parowan, Utah, and connects Intestate 15 to Highway 89. This throughway follows the historic migration route used by the ancient Anasazi and is nicknamed Utah’s Patchwork Parkway. Just off I-15, the town of Parowan was settled by Mormon pioneers in 1851. Ancient Native Americans left… Continue reading Highway 143 Scenic Byway
Category: Explore
Panguitch Lake
Panguitch Lake is located just 20 minutes south of the town of Panguitch and, at 8,400 feet in elevation, is a great year-round mountain destination. Panguitch Lake is found right along Scenic Highway 143 and is a great base camp for exploring nearby attractions such as Cedar Breaks National Monument, Mammoth Cave, Cascade Falls, and… Continue reading Panguitch Lake
Pine Lake
Pine Lake, Utah is a hidden gem, situated well off the beaten track. Covering just 77 acres it is surrounded by a dry and barren desert. Located at 7,500 feet, Pine Lake offers a cool refreshing contrast to the hot arid conditions of red rocks and white cliffs which surround it. This small lake is… Continue reading Pine Lake
Tropic Reservoir
Lake Powell
Located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (NRA), Lake Powell is a literal watering hole for visitors to have a splashing time. Hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing are popular pastimes with the stunning, red-rock canyons as a backdrop in this Southern Utah hotspot. Whether on land or water, over two million travelers gather with family… Continue reading Lake Powell
Wide Hollow Reservoir
Wide Hollow Reservoir is well-stocked with rainbow trout and bluegill, and its clear blue waters are a favorite local destination for boating, canoeing, and water sports. Shore fishing is the preferred method, as motorized boats are prohibited. The reservoir is also ideal for swimming. Paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes can be rented to enjoy a day… Continue reading Wide Hollow Reservoir
Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Some of the most dramatic slot canyons in the world have been carved into the White Cliffs of the Grand Staircase in southern Utah. Many of these slot canyons are accessible only to veteran canyoneers well versed in a variety of rock-climbing techniques. Yet there are slot canyons that involve no more than a pleasant… Continue reading Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Bull Valley Gorge Slot Canyon
Bull Valley Gorge is a relatively well-known canyon, yet quite far from a paved road. It can be quite testing to explore as there are several dryfalls to negotiate—the highest is 12 feet. Depending on recent weather, pools up to 4 feet deep and long patches of sticky, clayish mud may be encountered. The reward… Continue reading Bull Valley Gorge Slot Canyon
Hole in the Rock Road
This road has major historical significance and also leads to some of Bryce Canyon Country’s most incredible slot canyons. History Late in 1879, Mormon settlers from southwestern Utah were organized to settle a new part of the Utah territory in what is now southeastern Utah. What was planned to be a six-week journey became a… Continue reading Hole in the Rock Road
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is an unparalleled location for water-based and backcountry recreation. Here, visitors will find scenic vistas, geologic wonders, and a panorama of human history. Additionally, the controversy surrounding the construction of Glen Canyon Dam and the creation of Lake Powell contributed to the birth of the modern-day environmental movement. The park… Continue reading Glen Canyon National Recreation Area