Smithsonian Butte National Back Country Byway travels for 9.25 miles between Rockville and Apple Valley, Utah, just south of Zion National Park. The Back County Byway transports visitors from the Virgin River floodplain, through pinyon-juniper woodlands, to sagebrush desert at the Big Plain Junction of Highway 59. Spec
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
This site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 435-688-3200 · utsgmail@blm.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Smithsonian Butte National Back Country Byway — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Smithsonian Butte National Back Country Byway?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Smithsonian Butte National Back Country Byway. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Goosberry Way, Wire Mesa Loop Trail, Gander Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Wire Mesa Trail
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.