One of the most gorgeous mountain ranges in Southern Utah is majestically splayed along the western edges of Zion National Park, on a vast range known as the Hurricane Mesa. In fact, as you navigate the Kolob Reservoir Road from the Town of Virgin and ascend to almost 6,000 feet, your travels will briefly take you in and out of Zion. You do not need a Park pass to enjoy this route.

An interesting way to make a 2-hour automobile adventure on Hurricane Mesa is to take Kolob Reservoir Road from Virgin about 6 miles to the Zion Park sign, then continue for about a mile where you will find an unnamed, dirt road “Y-ing” off to the left. The road becomes fairly rugged if wet for the next couple miles; a four-wheel-drive or a higher riding truck or car is needed in winter.

Follow this road to its entirety, which will loop you across Hurricane Mesa to the west. In about 10 miles the road will improve to a point of blacktop, and will lead you south back to Virgin. Take your time and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Large herds of mule deer inhabit this range. US Government signs will appear once you reach blacktop. This was the “Flying Monkey Project” area where the concept of ejection seats in fighter planes was perfected. A bike trail of the same name is planted along the rim.