| No matter what the season, the loop roads and byways can provide tremedous scenery for the visitor and recreationalist. A mix of beautiful wild flowers, bright autumn leaves and sweet, white snow make for picturesque settings. |
Both the Indian Canyon and the Energy Loop, or Huntington and Eccles Canyon National Scenic Byways, provide breathtaking views of scenery in the area.
This beautiful canyon is called the Energy Loop because of the coal mines throughout the mountain terrain that provide fuel to power plants. Electric Lake provides water for the Huntington Power Plant located down the mountain.
Maintained by state and national agencies, the Byway provides a series of kiosks for the well-informed traveler. Relax, enjoy the picturesque atmosphere and learn the geologic, historical and environmental background of each region.
The Indian Canyon Byway follows an old Native American trail used for travel between Price Valley and the Uinta Basin. Once you get off the primary route of US-191/6, the Byway narrows and travels along Willow Creek.
You will see wide open vistas and pass through the beginnings of the Roan and Book Cliff formations. Peaking at 9100-feet Indian Pass, the Byway passes through the Ashley National Forest and a unique display of rock formations. The vegetation here includes pinyon, juniper, aspen and Douglas fir. Elk and deer sightings are common.
The contrasts of autumn foliage are particularly beautiful. From the summit, the road follows Indian Canyon through desert terrain bordering Indian Creek. At the Byway’s end lies the town of Duchesne, settled in 1904.
Home to thousands of plant species, enjoy the many varieties of trees and flowers. Bird watchers appreciate the solitude of watching meadow larks, eagles, hawks and a multitude of birds that live or migrate through Castle Country. Hunting season brings game hunters from all over the world to try their skill against the elk, deer, bear and mountain lions that call the loop home.
Leisurely follow crystal clear streams that follow or intersect the loop. Or, challenge yourself to a high-mountain trail filled with sheer ascents and canyons that drop thousands of feet demanding skill and strict attention.
Picnic in well maintained campgrounds or in a secluded grove of aspens and pines. Camp where amenities abound or so far away that no amenities can be found.
Enjoy the seasons along the loop. Spring, with its bulging streams, budding trees, melting snow and promise of renewal. Summer, filled with bright wild-flowers, crystal streams, dense foliage and peaceful enjoyment.
Autumn comes alive with the fiery colors of an enchanted forest to be seen; but not quite believed. Winter creates a study in contrasts from the whiteness of the snow and rich green of the pines to the quiet cross-country skier seeking the quiet solitude of the snow, or to the thrill-seeking, rambunctious snowmobiler.