Abajo Loop State Scenic Backway

Area Status: Open

The Abajo Loop leads from the desert floor and red rock canyons to steep mountains over 11,000 feet high, with overlooks and panoramic views. The backway travels Forest Road 105 west from Monticello to the junction of Forest Road-079 where it heads south through North Canyon, northwest of the shadow of Horsehead Peak. The tour concludes in Blanding. Although suitable for passenger vehicles during late spring or summer through fall, this route is not recommended for large RVs or trailers. North Creek pass does close in winter.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	North Creek Pass closes in winter. Weather and snow melt will affect open and closing. Please call the Monticello Ranger District for current conditions, 435-587-2041.
Restrictions:	No large RVs or trailers
Closest Towns:	Monticello, Blanding

General Information

Directions:

Starting at County Road (CR) 103 north of Monticello, Utah, head west on CR 103 for about 7 miles until you come to the Manti-La Sal National Forest boundary. The road becomes Forest Road (FR) 0105. Continue west/southwest on FR 0105 for about 8.5 miles until you come to FR 000049. Head east/southeast on FR 000049 for about 2.5 miles. You will pass the Buckboard Campground on the south. At FR 0079/Indian Creek Road, head south and continue on this road for about 17.4 miles, until just past the Nizhoni Campground on the east. The road ends at FR 0095. At FR 0095, head south for about 4.5 miles until you exit the Forest. The road becomes CR 285. Continue on this road for about another 8 miles until you get to the town of Blanding, Utah.