Easily the most popular scenic drive on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Alpine Scenic Loop (SR92) is a narrow, windy road famous for fall color drives. It leads past the year-round Sundance Resort, famous for family skiing in winter and outdoor theater in summer. The loop begins at the mouth of American Fork Canyon on SR-92 at 5,000 feet elevation and follows the canyon to its crest at 8,000 feet. From the summit, the road winds down towards Provo Canyon and US-189. Lush vegetation characterizes this route. At the summit of American Fork Canyon, vistas of Mt. Timpanogos are visible through impressive aspen groves. Campgrounds and picnic areas are numerous. Trails lead from the road into the Mt. Timpanogos and Lone Peak Wilderness Areas. The Byway is a particularly popular autumn drive.
Location:
American Fork, Utah through Provo, Utah
Website:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/recreation/alpine-scenic-loop-backway
Walking Intensity:
Easy
Good to Know:
The full loop typically closes in winter, though you can usually drive partway up from both the American Fork and Provo sides, depending on snowfall. Weekends and holidays are the busiest, and it’s a favorite route for cyclists.
Hours:
Cost:
There is no fee for non-stop travel along the Alpine Scenic Loop Backway or use of gravel turnouts not associated with a developed recreation site.
If you do stop at a developed site, a recreation pass is required and must be on display in your vehicle while parked.
Recreation Fee Schedule:
- 3-day Pass $10.00
- 7-day Pass $20.00
- Annual Pass $60.00