Location: Central Utah, in the Manti-La Sal National Forest, south of Provo
Length: 86 miles (138 km)
Time To Allow: 1.5 – 4 hours

Description/Highlights/Points of Interest

The byways that comprise the Energy Loop wind across the fantastic resources of the Manti-La Sal National Forest, rising up to 10,000 feet (3,048 m) above sea level. On a clear day, you can see landmarks 50 miles (80 km) away. You will be introduced to the rich history of American industrial development as you drive through historic coal mining towns, camps and coal-fired plants. The Sanpete Valley reveals some of the best preserved Mormon pioneer settlements in existence, and the Castle Valley will expose you to some true geological wonders.

Suggested Itinerary

Traveling from Fairview, Utah, follow State Highway 31 approximately 10 miles (16 km) to its junction with Highway 264. Proceed on 264 for about another 10 miles (16 km) and you will come upon a turnout and interpretive signs, along with a view of Burnout Canyon and Electric Lake. Electric Lake was constructed to provide power for the Huntington Power Plant. At the bottom of the lake lie old mines and kilns that were once part of the historic mining town of Connellsville.

Past the Electric Lake Overlook on Highway 264, drive 12 miles (19.3 km) to State Highway 96 and travel north for five miles (8 km) to the historic town of Scofield. Scofield was once the largest town in all of Carbon County. On May 1, 1900, one the worst mining accidents in U.S. history claimed the lives of hundreds of miners. Visit the old cemetery to see the gravestones of the miners lost on that tragic day. A little further north Hwy 96 runs beside Scofield State Park and Reservoir, which provides good fishing for trout.

Leave the Scofield area by heading south on Highway 96 and follow the road you came in on back to the junction of Highways 264 and 31. Follow Highway 31 southeast towards the town of Huntington. Approximately 7 miles (11.2 km) from the junction you will find another turnout that shows an impressive view of the Sanpete Valley Overlook.

Continue traveling 8 miles (12.8 km) south on State Highway 31 and view another scenic overlook. This turnout provides interpretive signs and a view of Joe's Valley Overlook below, a popular recreational area for local Utahns.