Scenic Byway 143 - Utah's Patchwork Parkway
Scenic Byway 143 - Utah's Patchwork Parkway is a National Scenic Byway in Utah. Within Utah it covers roughly 50 miles. The map below shows its route. Use “Plan a drive” to open it in the Road Sorties route planner — already routing along Scenic Byway 143 - Utah's Patchwork Parkway with scenic roads turned on, ready to add your own stops.
State Route 143 climbs the Markagunt Plateau between Panguitch and Parowan, crossing high country near Brian Head and Panguitch Lake above 10,000 feet. Its name comes from a pioneer legend: snowbound Panguitch settlers are said to have survived a winter rescue trip by laying down patchwork quilts to walk across the deep snow. The route passes lava fields, aspen forest, and the rim of Cedar Breaks.
- the "Quilt Walk" legend
- Brian Head & Panguitch Lake
- Markagunt Plateau (10,000+ ft)
- lava fields
- Cedar Breaks rim
Designated for its historic qualities
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Places to stop along Scenic Byway 143 - Utah's Patchwork Parkway
Panguitch Lake
A trout lake at 8,400 feet ringed by cabins and resorts; its name comes from a Paiute word for big fish.
Brian Head
Utah's highest ski town, with summer chairlift rides and mountain biking from about 9,600 feet.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
A half-mile-deep amphitheater of eroded rock at over 10,000 feet, with ancient bristlecone pines on its rim and dark night skies.
WebsiteParowan Gap Petroglyphs
Hundreds of rock carvings in a notch through the hills west of Parowan, some thought to mark solstices and seasons.
Where to Stay along Scenic Byway 143 - Utah's Patchwork Parkway
3 campgrounds and RV parks sit within about 5 miles of Scenic Byway 143 - Utah's Patchwork Parkway.
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Photos of Scenic Byway 143 - Utah's Patchwork Parkway
What is a National Scenic Byway?
National Scenic Byways are roads recognized at the federal level for at least one outstanding quality — scenic, natural, historic, cultural, archaeological or recreational — that gives travelers a reason to seek them out rather than just pass through.