To reach the start of Skyline Drive, take Highway 6 to Tucker....just west of Soldier Summit. In 2010, there was massive construction here. Look for the yellow DOT signs saying "Skyline Drive Access". When there is no construction, there is a rest area at the starting point. The route starts out as a long climb to 9,000 feet. Surprisingly, it's mostly forested and holds some nice campsites. Once at the views, stay on the main road. Most side roads are well marked as to where they go. It's a nice drive on the skyline looking at all the distant mountains. distance with 4WD.

The famous Skyline Drive runs 80 miles or so in central Utah. The beginning 24 miles or most northern section runs between Highway 6 and Highway 31. For the most part, the road is graded so most vehicles can make the trek. Along the route, there are two highpoints meeting peak status. One takes about 30 seconds walk, the other about 10 minutes. This northern section around 9,000 feet melts out well before the southern sections.

Access:

The Route:

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Bear Benchmark is just of the road as shown on the map. I was with visiting family so I only had a few minutes to run around looking for the benchmark. It is probably there somewhere in the small bushes but I didn't find it. "Johnson Ridge" (Peak 9324) is an easy scramble from a large turn-out. Once near the top, it's a massive plateau with the highest point a bit to the east. With all the scrub brush, it's not exciting at all of a summit area. Only do if you are a peakbagger! I did almost step on a deer fawn, it only moved once I was right on top of it.