Alert: Construction Delays on Highway 89 Near Hatch Starting Oct. 5

Highway 89 Scenic Byway

Scenic Highway 89 through Bryce Canyon Country is part of the Utah Heritage Highway 89.

This stretch of Utah's Heritage Highway 89 runs through the western side of Bryce Canyon Country, linking Panguitch and Hatch, Utah, and connecting travelers south to Zion National Park and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It's part of a 500-mile highway that runs from Idaho to Arizona. In this Garfield County section, you'll find historic brick towns, a dramatic red-rock canyon, and one of Utah's largest lava tubes.

Highway 89 Route at a Glance


Panguitch

Historic District, dining, lodging, gateway to Bryce Canyon Country

Distance to Panguitch 

0

Junction with Scenic Byway 12 / Red Canyon

Red rock hoodoos, natural arches over the highway, short hikes

7

Hatch

Pioneer town, Galaxy Diner, fishing, Sevier River access

15

Mammoth Cave

Self-guided lava tube exploration, over 2,000 ft of passages

15

Continuing toward Kanab

Gateway to Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon's North Rim

South of Hatch

Panguitch: The Center of Scenic Utah

Panguitch is nicknamed "The Center of Scenic Utah," and it earns the name, sitting within reach of Red Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park, Tropic Reservoir, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and Panguitch Lake. The entire town is listed as a National Historic District, thanks to its concentration of original and restored brick buildings dating back to the 1860s. It's a natural home base, with a dozen lodging options and plenty of dining within walking distance of the historic core.

Red Canyon

About a mile from the junction of Highway 89 and Scenic Byway 12 sits Red Canyon, known for its vivid red rock spires and hoodoos. The highway itself passes through natural rock arches carved into the canyon walls. It's an easy stop for photos, short trails, and a preview of the color and geology you'll see again at Bryce Canyon.

Hatch

At the junction of Mammoth Creek and the Sevier River sits Hatch, Utah, a small pioneer community with a big list of nearby attractions: Mammoth Cave, Red Canyon, the Dixie National Forest, and the Sevier River drainage. The Mammoth Creek Fish Hatchery, located here, stocks rainbow trout in lakes and streams throughout the region, making it an excellent fishing stop. The town also offers ATV riding, snowmobiling, hiking, and mountain biking, a 1950s-style Galaxy Diner, and a handful of lodging and dining options. By appointment, visitors can tour the Daughters of Utah Pioneer Museum, and a seasonal U.S. Forest Service visitor center sits just south of town to help travelers get oriented.

Mammoth Cave: One of Utah's Largest Lava Tubes

West of Hatch via Fish Hatchery Road, Mammoth Cave is a lava tube on the Markagunt Plateau at over 8,000 feet elevation, with more than 2,000 feet of explorable passages across several chambers. It formed from cooling lava and water and stays cool year-round. 

This is a self-guided adventure, so bring a flashlight or headlamp for every person (it's pitch dark past the first turn), sturdy shoes, and a jacket. The access road is paved for the first several miles out of Hatch and turns to dirt for the final stretch, so it's worth checking conditions before heading out, especially after rain or snow.

Best Time to Visit

  • Late spring–fall: Enjoy full access to Mammoth Cave's dirt access road and the best conditions for exploring Red Canyon's trails.
  • Summer: Enjoy peak fishing season around Hatch and the Mammoth Creek drainage, plus the warmest temperatures for cave exploration.
  • Winter: Highway 89 stays open and plowed, and the Hatch area is a hub for snowmobiling, but Mammoth Cave's access road may not be maintained for winter travel. Check conditions first.

Make the Most of Your Trip

This section of Highway 89 connects north to Panguitch and Scenic Byway 143, and south toward Zion National Park and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It also meets Scenic Byway 12 near Red Canyon, making it easy to build a loop that includes Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin, and points further into Garfield County.

FAQ: Planning Your Drive on Highway 89

What is Utah's Heritage Highway 89?

Utah's Heritage Highway 89 is a 500-mile route from Idaho to Arizona. The Bryce Canyon Country section runs through Panguitch and Hatch, Utah.

How far is Hatch from Panguitch?

Hatch is about 15 miles south of Panguitch.

What is Mammoth Cave?

Mammoth Cave is a self-guided lava tube west of Hatch, Utah, with over 2,000 feet of passages formed from ancient lava flows. Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes. There are no tours or staff on-site.

Does Highway 89 connect to Zion National Park?

Yes. Heading south from Hatch, Highway 89 continues toward Zion National Park and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Red Canyon on Highway 89 or Highway 12?

Red Canyon sits right at the junction of the two, about a mile from where Highway 89 meets Scenic Byway 12.

Can I visit Mammoth Cave in a regular car?

The first several miles from Hatch are paved; the final stretch is dirt road. It's passable for most passenger vehicles in dry conditions, but check current conditions before heading out, especially after rain or snow.



This information is provided by Bryce Canyon Country, the official tourism office of Garfield County, Utah

Image

Related Lodging, Dining, & Guides.

Image

Boulder Mountain Lodge

A nationally recognized lodge with everything for an amazing getaway.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Steppingstone Inn

Cozy motel in Tropic, Utah with great views and accommodations.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bear Valley RV & Campground

RV and Camping options + Cabin’s, Sheep Wagons’s and Teepee's
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Escalante Yurts

Yurts that have it all flat screen TV’s, hot showers, heating/AC, Wi-Fi.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Panguitch Countryside Cabins

Family-owned cabins were built with love and desire to add to the community
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Miller's Knoll

A great place to stay on 50 acres, near Bryce, for you and your horses.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

The Old Bailey Place

Built-in 1890, renovated in 2017, this place is a place of history.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Helicopters

Bryce Canyon Helicopters provides incredible scenic flights.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ticaboo Resort

Ticaboo Lodge offers 62 rooms and access to surrounding desert landscape.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Uyurt

Unforgettable glamping experience in cozy yurts close to Bryce Canyon.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Deer Creek Campground

A tranquil and remote escape nestled along the scenic Burr Trail.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Utah Slickrock Guides

Join us on a spectacular, unpublicized, cross-country day hike.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Subway

Open all year.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Hatch Station Cafe and Motel

8 miles from the turnoff to Bryce Canyon.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Escalante Outfitters

Serving pizza, sub sandwiches, ice cream, coffee, draft beer, and more.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

La Luz Desert Retreat

Every room in the house provides majestic views of the Kaiparowitz Plateau.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Red Canyon Campground

The Red Canyon Campground is situated amid ponderosa pine in Red Canyon.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Burr Trail Grill

Locally sourced burgers, sandwiches, homemade pie & craft beer.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bear Valley RV

Full convenient store, gift shop, and souvenirs.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

The Bistro at Ticaboo Lodge

Grab ‘N Go: Offering Microwavable Meals, Candy, Chips, Soda, and Ice-cream.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Pioneer Village Cabins

All of our cabins have an exterior entrance and offer 1-3 queen beds.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Boulder Meadows RV & Campground

Conveniently located between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks,
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Hills and Hollows General Store

Offers an amazing selection of locally sourced products.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Rustler's Restaurant

Open seasonally. American, Mexican, BBQ, Pastas, Steaks and Shrimp and more
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Pioneer Village Motel

All motel rooms offer an interior entrance. Queen or 2 double options.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

The Galaxy Motel

Open year round with comfortable rooms.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Adobe Desert Boutique Motel

A modern hideaway surrounded by Utah’s most iconic landscapes.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Canyon Base Camp

Memorable experience with teepees, yurts, private cabins, and more.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Garfield Memorial Health Care Foundation Thrift Store

Open year round.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ruby's Inn ATV Tours

See some of the most incredible scenery that is seen by very few.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ivo's BBQ

BBQ near Bryce Canyon National Park.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Dixie Forest RV Resort Cabins

RV Resort with cabins that sleep 4-6 people.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Dark Ranger Telescope Tours

See the Universe through our BIG telescopes in the darkest sky in the USA.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Sculptured Furniture, Art & Ceramics Gallery

Petrified wood, rocks, paintings, fresh garden produce.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Summer's Kitchen

Offering a fresh, on-the-go menu of soups, salads, and hot and cold sandwic
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Log Cabins

Cozy cabins located downtown Tropic close to dining areas.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ruby’s Inn General Store

Souvenirs, rocks, clothing, hats, Western apparel, books, and more.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

C Stop Pizza

Family owned and operated for nearly 30 years.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Canyon Fever Guides

Private tours customized to fit your time frame and abilities.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Riverfront Urban Industrial House

New amenities and urban industrial decor, perfect for Bryce & Zion.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Red Rock Retreat

Beautiful Historic Home Near Bryce Canyon!
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Cottonwood Meadow Lodge

Come stay with us in The Bunk House or The Barn - each sleep 4.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Color Country Motel

Located in Panguitch, Utah only 30 minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Red Rock Ride

A 7 day cowboy experience.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Pines Campground

Cabins, tent and RV spots in a beautiful pine forest.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Mountain Ridge Cabins and Lodging

Open seasonally, newly renovated rooms and cabins between Bryce and Zion.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bear Valley RV Cabin

Darling Cabin and other options such as a teepee, wagons, and more.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Country Cabins

Six log cabins and four deluxe cabins in Tropic Utah.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Valley Ranch RV & Horse Park

Camping + cabins base camp centrally located for adventurers and horses.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ticaboo Lodge

Home rentals at Ticaboo Lodge in North Lake Powell.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Rockin' R Ranch

An authentic western ranch where time slows down and relationships bloom.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Entrada Escalante Lodge

A charming boutique lodge near Scenic Byway 12 in Utah.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Wonder Inn Outback

Three rental options for solo travelers, couples, and families.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Kiva Cottage

Rustic and earthy tucked away into nature for a restorative stay.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Sweetwater Kitchen

Locally or sourced from other farms in Utah.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Rainbow Country Bed & Breakfast

Good old fashion traditional bed & breakfast in the heart of colorful Utah.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Yoga at Clear Sky

Rejuvenating Yoga and Breathwork at Clear Sky in Cannonville, Utah.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Sunrise Hollow - Sunrise Loft

A spacious second-story vacation suite at Sunrise Hollow.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ruby's Inn Horseback Adventures

Horseback adventures for all skill levels.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Canyon Base Camp

Memorable experience with teepees, yurts, private cabins, and more.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Country Rodeo

Wednesday through Saturday, Memorial Day - Mid August.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Tropic Family House

Offering many amenities and comforts of home for four guests.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Red Canyon Village Cabins

Comfortable, rustic cabins with beautiful views.
Learn More
Image

Red Canyon Village RV Park

Cabins for rent and full hook up sites with water, electricity, and sewer.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Kate's Place

Beautiful area with horses, moo cows, sheep and beautiful green fields.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Dragonfly Motor Lodge

A retro-chic motor lodge with a little nostalgia thrown in.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

The Meadow

The Meadow, a newly built cabin in Hatch, Utah
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Mystic Adventures

Explore over 500 miles of trails for beginner and experienced riders.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Subway

Fast food sandwiches and salads. Subway, Eat Fresh.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

The Panguitch House

Serves hot breakfast during peak season. Close to Bryce Canyon.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Inn

Cozy private cabins in Tropic Utah close to Bryce and The Grand Staircase.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Pines Restaurant

Soup, pie, cowboy size steaks, mashed potatoes, and more.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Sunset Campground

Located in Bryce Canyon National Park and beautiful surroundings.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Canyon Grill

Canyon Grill, located inside Canyon Country Lodge.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Christena's Place

An updated and modern red brick historic home in the heart of Panguitch.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Kodachrome Basin State Park Campground

Campground in Kodachrome State Park with cottages and bunkhouses for rent.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

New Western Motel

Located just off Highway 12, New Western Motel offers a variety of rooms.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Inn

Bryce Canyon Inn offers excellent multi-room vacation rentals.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Southwestern Retreat

Minutes from many beautiful hikes, drives, and attractions.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Nettie's Vintage Trailer Resort

Modern Comforts with a Retro Twist
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Cowboy Ranch House

Cowboy Ranch House at Bryce Canyon Resort offers a true Western Experience.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Modern Cabin Hatch Utah

Has all the amenities of a house but secluded and sits on 80 acres.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Coyote Hollow Equestrian Campground

Designed for horse enthusiasts with direct access to Thunder Mountain
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Hell's Backbone Grill & Farm

Heavenly food straight from the farm.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Scenic Tours and Shuttle Service

Transportation and guiding services throughout Bryce.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Little Bone Food Truck

Located on the lodge grounds adjacent to Hell's Backbone Grill.
Learn More
Image

Quality Inn Bryce Canyon

80 guest rooms all non-smoking, One king-size beds, two full-size beds.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ruby's Inn Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room

Western style buffet meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Pine Lake Campground

Lakeside camping near Bryce Canyon with RV hookup and tent sites.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Utah Fishing Charters

Provides guided day fishing trips on the beautiful Panguitch Lake.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Panoramic Cliffs Retreat

National parks to visit, ATV trails to ride, and fishing down at the river.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Canyon Base Camp

3 story cabin nestled on a hillside stand of Ponderosa Pine trees.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Escalante Outfitters - Fly Fishing Guide

Untouched fly fishing opportunities are waiting for you to discover!
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Purple Sage Motel

Has remodeled rooms and is the perfect center for Bryce Canyon.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

The Grill at Offshore Marina

Your stop for fast grilled and fresh food in the Bullfrog Marina.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Blue Springs Lodge

Blue Springs Lodge offers 6 spacious cabins.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Grand View Lodge

A bright and spacious vacation rental with 3 levels and gathering areas.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ridgetop Hideaway

Private Luxurious 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2050 sq. ft. mountain home.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ranger Dave's Historical Cabins

2 Historical rustic 100 yr old cabins put together with a addition, total s
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon Shadows RV & Campground

A new campground offering RV site, Tent site, and bunkhouse rentals.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)

Distances marked "Varies" depend on your chosen route and turnaround point — check current trail maps for exact mileage.

ATV and OHV riding is not permitted off-road inside Bryce Canyon National Park itself. All trails listed here are on National Forest or BLM land surrounding the park.

Before You Ride

OHV operators ages 8–15 must have an OHV education certificate from the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation. Operators 16 and older must have either a valid driver's license or an OHV education certificate. No one under 8 may operate an OHV on the county road system.

Yankee Meadows Ride

This scenic ride follows the south shore of Panguitch Lake, leading to Clear Creek Road and the Yankee Meadow Reservoir overlook. The trail is heavily forested with switchbacks, opening to sweeping views of Bryce Canyon Country's red rock landscape. Yankee Meadow Reservoir is a good spot to stretch your legs and use the facilities before continuing another mile to an open meadow that's ideal for picnicking.

Bull Rush Loop

Bull Rush Loop is a challenging, scenic ride through thick forest and sagebrush hills, with narrow stretches and a rocky, vertical descent into a dry wash. Bull Rush Peak tops out at 6,380 feet.

Casto Canyon / Limekiln Loop

A full day of riding awaits on the 90-mile Casto Canyon / Limekiln Loop, which begins and ends in Panguitch. The route winds through Casto Canyon and intersects the Fremont Trail near Circleville, roughly the halfway point and a good stop for lunch. Casto Canyon's red rock formations rival Bryce Canyon National Park's, and the trail is widely regarded as one of the most scenic ATV routes in the country. Forest cover shifts from pinyon pine and juniper to Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and aspen as elevation increases, making this a strong trail for wildlife viewing. The return leg passes through Dog Valley, crosses Highway 89, and follows Sandford Creek back to Panguitch.

Paunsaugunt ATV Trail

Covering 25–30 miles of open desert terrain in the Powell Ranger District of Dixie National Forest, the Paunsaugunt ATV Trail is known for red rock vistas stretching across the forest, making it a good option for riders looking for wide-open exploration outside the park boundary.

Fremont ATV Trail

The Fremont ATV Trail winds through dusty, shaded desert forest, high plateaus, and quiet backcountry. It's a good pick for riders seeking seclusion and a chance to spot wildlife.

Pine Lake OHV Trail

Pine Lake OHV Trail makes a loop from Pine Lake up to Powell Point and around through Pole Canyon before returning. It’s a classic stretch of Utah backroad riding.

Powell Point

Located about 23 miles northeast of Bryce Canyon National Park at the southern tip of the Table Cliff Plateau, Powell Point offers one of Southern Utah's most dramatic overlooks, with views stretching across the Grand Staircase and the Gray and White Cliffs before dropping toward the Grand Canyon in the distance.

Bryce ATV Rally

Every August, riders gather in Panguitch for the annual Bryce ATV Rally, hosted at the Triple C Arena. The 2026 rally runs August 13–15. The rally offers guided tours and independent exploration across more than 2,400 miles of trail, including Casto Canyon. Highlights include an ATV Rodeo, a Poker Run with cash prizes, vendors, food, and entertainment for the whole family.

Garfield County ATV & OHV Route Maps

Explore over 3,000 miles of scenic trails across southern Utah with our four-part map guide:

  • Region 1: Markagunt & Paunsaugunt Plateaus (Panguitch Lake, Hatch, and loops near Bryce Canyon)
  • Region 2: Aquarius Plateau & Escalante (Boulder Mountain, Hell's Backbone, and Grand Staircase-Escalante)
  • Region 3: Escalante to Ticaboo (canyons, remote desert trails, and the Waterpocket Fold corridor)
  • Region 4: Henry Mountains & Lake Powell (high-elevation mountain trails, bison country, and Bullfrog area access)

FAQ: Riding ATVs in Bryce Canyon Country

Do I need a permit to ride ATVs in Bryce Canyon Country? 

You'll need a registered OHV and, since 2023, Utah requires all operators to complete an approved OHV education course. Check current requirements before you ride.

Can I ride ATVs inside Bryce Canyon National Park? 

No. Off-road OHV riding is not permitted inside the national park. All trails on this page are located on surrounding National Forest or BLM land.

What's the best ATV trail for beginners? 

Yankee Meadows Ride offers scenic, forested riding with fewer technical sections than routes like Bull Rush Loop or Pine Lake OHV Trail.

How long is the Casto Canyon / Limekiln Loop? 

About 90 miles round trip, starting and ending in Panguitch. Plan for a full day.

Are there annual ATV events in the area? 

Yes. The Bryce ATV Rally takes place every August in Panguitch at the Triple C Arena, with guided tours, a Poker Run, and access to over 2,400 miles of trail. The 2026 rally runs August 13–15.


Provided by Bryce Canyon Country, the official tourism office of Garfield County, Utah

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

Casto Canyon Day Trips for Days Itinerary

Related Lodging, Dining, & Guides.

Image

Mystic Adventures

Explore over 500 miles of trails for beginner and experienced riders.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ticaboo Rentals

Customizable guided tours.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce UTV Rentals

Bryce UTV Rentals Provide top-of-the-line two and four-seat UTV’s.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Ruby's Inn ATV Tours

See some of the most incredible scenery that is seen by very few.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

American ATV Rentals

Explore the magnificent beauty of this region on many of the iconic trails.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Grand Staircase ATV Tours

All-day guided ATV tours into the Grand Staircase-Escalante.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Wildlife Outfitters

Our unguided tours offer a complete experience of the Paunsaugunt Plateau.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Epic Jeep Rentals

Explore the Grand Staircase-Escalante in a Jeep built for the terrain.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)
Image

Bryce Canyon ATV Adventures

No tour, no guide, and no trailer needed.
Learn More
(opens in a new tab)