Easy · 20 / 30 / 50 / 90 min
Zion Helicopter Scenic Flight
Lift off into the airspace around Zion. The 90-minute version reaches Bryce.
Slow Days
Smith Mesa Scenic Drive
A high-clearance dirt route up onto Smith Mesa with private views into Kolob Terrace and West Zion that helicopter passengers pay $300 to see.
Photo: Jim Warrick · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2–3 hours
- From the lodge
- ~30 min
- Type
- Self-drive overlook
Smith Mesa is the kind of overlook that exists in southern Utah and almost nobody visits. A high-clearance dirt route off SR-9 climbs the mesa to a series of overlooks looking directly into Kolob Terrace and the back side of Zion's main canyon — the same views the helicopter tours pay $300 per person for, except free and at your own pace.
The road is ungraded and rocky in places. Most crossover SUVs handle it fine in dry conditions; sedans should not attempt it. After rain, wait a few days. Plan 2-3 hours total: 30 min drive, hour at the various overlooks, drive back.
**Pair with:** sunset is the move. Bring a thermos of coffee. The Smith Mesa pass is also visible from the helicopter tour described elsewhere — both perspectives are worth seeing if budget allows.
Before you go
- High-clearance vehicle required — sedans should not attempt
- Dust is real — close phones in cases
- No services — bring water, fuel up before
Pair it with
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Ready for your smith mesa scenic drive day?
Book your cabin and discover the area at your own pace. The trails start at the door.