Patchwork Parkway National Scenic Byway SR 143
The "Patchwork" name initially came from the heroic story of an early group of pioneers whom, during the harsh winter of 1864, set out to c ross the plateau from Panguitch to Parowan in search of food and supplies for their starving colony. The only way they could cross the deep snow was to lay a patchwork quilt over the snow, walk to the end, then relay the quilt and walk again. The story is a testament of the heart and soul of the people that make up the individual communities along the Byway.
Like blocks on a quilt, this 51 mile route weaves through an astounding patchwork of historic towns, geologic formations, vegetation, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities that bound together as one incredible journey through six major life zones.
From Parowan, the highway climbs past the colorful Vermillion Cliffs through a maple and scrub oak forest. The road twists ghrough cone shaped white cliffs then makes a major ascent to the forested heights of Brian Head ski town. Past Brian Head, the road climbs again to summit at 10,400 feet to the top most rise of the "Grand Staircase" geological formation, which showcases the 2,000 foot deep Cedar Breaks, where it jusnctions with SR-148.
Heading east, the road descends through a thick aspen forest which is brilliant in late September with golden and red aspens. You'll see distant views into the pink cliffs of the Paunsagunt Plateau. Ancient lava fields pop up through the aspen trees that line the highway. The road meets up with Panguitch Lake which is popular for fishing and boating. The byway continues east, following lush pastures and the banks of the Panguitch Lake Creek into historic Panguitch.
How do I get there? From Parowan I-15 exit #78, go south on Parowan's main street, turn left at Center St/SR-143 and head east.
Side Trips & Viewpoints:
Parowan Cemetery
Vermillion Cliffs Picnic Area
Yankee meadow
Hidden Haven Waterfall
Dry Lakes Scenic Backway
Brian Head Resort
Brian Head Peak Road
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Panguitch Lake
Historic Panguitch Town
What is the one way, no stops drive time? The drive is 51 miles and takes about 90 minutes to travel.
Grad & Elevation:13% Grade. Elevation is from 5,600 feet to 10,400 feet. The portion between Parowan and Brian Head is steep and not recommended for RV's or semi trucks.
Services:Lodgin, gas, food, campgrounds, visitor center in Parowan, Bria Head and Panguitch.
Is road open in the winter?Yes, but check road conditions in the winter. The section between Brian Head and Panguitch Lake is subject to temporary closures during the winter season.
SUMMER AND FALL ACTIVITIES
National Scenic Byway 143:
The PatchWork Highway SR143 from Parowan through Brian Head to Panguitch has recently been designated as a National Scenic Byway. The Byway features myriad of natural, scenic and historic qualities. Pick up a Scenic Byways guide at the visitor center or log onto www.hwy143.com
Mountain Biking:
Ride the only place on earth where you can drop over a vertical mile on eye-popping singletrack and round trip shuttle service is available to take you to over 200 miles of backcountry trails. The Brian Head Resort Mountain Bike Park has chairlift access on weekends where you can get into incredible trails featuring ups, downs, jumps, bank turns and freestyle elements. www.brianhead.com or 435-677-2035.
Brian Head has a trail for everyone from beginner to whopping rides that will test every aspect of your physical and technical abilities. Several in-town companies offer round trip shuttle service, repair shop, guided rides, rentals and gear.
Hiking:
Outdoor enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the endless hiking trails in and around Brian Head. Check out the Ramparts Trail, Twisted Forest and Alpine Pond. The area is famous for backcountry hiking and canyoneering. National Park staff at Cedar Breaks offer ranger led hikes and nature walks during the summer months. www.nps.gov/cebr
Scenic SkyLift Rides:
The weekend chairlift service is available to hikers and sightseers in search of Utah’s famous red-rock vistas. Experience the stunning views of Cedar Breaks National Monument and Brian Head Peak at 11,000 feet.
www.brianhead.com or 435-677-2035
ATV:
Climb the summit to Brian Head Peak, journey past miles of ancient lava flows or meander aspen groves and alpine meadows. Tours and rentals available June –September in Brian Head.
Fishing:
Southern Utah fisheries are where you will discover fishing at it’s best. Meandering trout streams and pristine lakes surround Brian Head, including Yankee Meadow, Panguitch Lake, Lowder Ponds, Red Creek Reservoir and Mammoth Creek. Fishing licenses sold in town or online at www.wildlife.utah.gov/licenses
National Parks:
Explore Bryce Canyon, Zion, Kolob, Cedar Breaks National Monument, all within a short drive of Brian Head. Experience the hidden treasures of the southwest on a giant 6-story screen at the Zion Canyon Giant Screen Amphitheater.
Bird Watching:
Get out your binoculars and clean the lenses on your camera. Brian Head has great opportunities to view fabulous specimens of birds. Brian Head Peak Road and Cedar Breaks National Monument are the best areas to view Mountain Bluebird, Clark’s Nutcracker, even Golden Eagles have been spotted in the area. Pick up a Birding Trails Guide at the Visitor Center.
Brian Head Peak:
With an elevation of 11,307 feet, Brian Head Peak is the highest point for the geological formation known as the Grand Staircase and currently is the start for many mountain bike and hiking trails. A fort built by the Conservation Corp. sits atop the peak and is the perfect place for observing the view stretching clear into Nevada to the west and beautiful Cedar Breaks to the south. Road is generally open from late June thru October. Road is located three miles south of Brian Head along Hwy. U-143. The road to Brian Head Peak is a good gravel road but use caution while traveling.
Utah Shakespearean Festival:
Just a short drive from Brian Head, is the Tony Award wining Utah Shakespearean Festival. Enjoy matinee and evening performances, plus free greenshow, backstage tours and literary seminars. The Festival features a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. The summer season runs late June through Labor Day and the fall season is mid September through October. www.bard.org or 1-800-PLAYTIX
WINTER AND SPRING ACTIVITIES
Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding:
Brian Head’s high elevation means skiing and boarding in famous Utah powder from mid November to mid April. Brian Head Resort has eight chairlifts, 63 runs on over 650 acres of terrain. Riders appreciate Brian Head’s commitment to freestyle riding, as demonstrated by their assortment of parks, pipes, rails and fun boxes. Enjoy several parks of varying ability levels with snow features, rails and boxes. Brian Head combines the best in family services, in a safe, friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with virtually no lift lines and uncrowded slopes. www.brianhead.com or 435-677-2035
Snowtubing:
Burn rubber at Brian Head’s Snow Tube Park. It’s like a water slide park on snow, complete with a surface lift to take you and your specially designed tube to the top. The park is open daily, mid December through April, with night tubing available most weekends and holidays. www.brianhead.com or 435-677-2035.
Snowmobiling:
Take a snowmobile ride through some of Utah’s most unique scenery. The Cedar Mountain Snowmobile Complex offers over 160 miles of pristine trails and wide open play areas. Guided tours and rentals available in Brian Head. Get detailed maps and information at
http://stateparks.utah.gov/ohv/snow-trails
Day Spa & Massage Therapy:
Relax in one of Utah’s most inviting and charming full service day spas. Offering a variety of treatments designed to ease the body and mind, including full body massage, facials, pedicures and aromatherapy baths. Open year round. www.cedarbreakslodge.com or www.grandlodgetBrianHead.com
What Our Guests Are Saying
"You guys have to go to Brian Head, I've been skiing since I was 2 and all the places I've been to, Brian Head has been the best!! Everyone up there is so kind, their food is great, and they have the best slopes!!! I learned how to snowboard there about 3 years ago and they were so helpful!!!! I can't wait for the season to start, see ya there!!!!"
-Shereen Ward
"We have been to Brian Head every year for the past four years with other families - terrific intermediate runs, snowboard runs with short lines, enough variety for 2-3 days of adventure and low-key friendly folks everywhere. Go for the snow and good value."
-Ryan