Skyline Drive - Backway

NOTE: As of 2011 the road climbing or descending into and out of Farmington Canyon is CLOSED until further notice. What is described as a "loop" below, is no longer a loop. You have to go in from Bountiful, and return the same way. Beware of approaching snowstorms in fall, and of remaining drifts across the road in the spring. This road is best travelled in good weather.

An inspiring and scenic gravel road connecting Farmington and Ward Canyons. Portions of the drive offers great views of Morgan Valley to the east, and the Great Salt Lake to the west. Plan on two to three hours for the loop. This is a dirt road, and it sometimes gets quite rutted (like a washboard) - so consider what car you take on the road.

Please note that the road up/down Farmington Canyon has precipitous drop-offs and sharp, blind curves. This portion of the drive is not for the faint-of-heart. It is very tough on brakes if you're heading downhill. If you're going to do the loop, climbing it might be preferred.

In the area above Centerville, there is a trail that leads down from the road to an amazing fern grotto. It's hard to believe that it exists. It's a fun place for kids to play hide-&-seek, as the ferns grow to the height of an adult. Watch for a turn out above Centerville, at the top of the Chase Lane trail.

You'll find forested hills, streams, water falls and a couple of lakes with beaver lodges, and terraces that seem like unlikely natural formations. In fact, the dozens of miles of terraces were part of the 1932 Conservation Corps successful efforts to stop the terrible flooding of the early 20th century.

Directions to start from the north: Exit 322 of I-15. Immediately take exit 327 (Hwy 227) east. Right on State St. Left on 100 East which turns into the Farmington Canyon Road. Shortly after passing Farmington Pond, the road turns to gravel for the remainder of the trip.

To start from the south.... head toward the Bountiful "B" on the mountain, and follow through the residential area above the "B" up into the mountains. Take 400 N in Bountiful, to Skyline Drive. Turn left and follow the road above the "B".