12 experiences ALONG highway 12

The Ultimate Road Trip on an All-American Road

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Utah Scenic Byway 12 (and Highway 24), a breathtaking All-American Road that weaves through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American West. This route is a direct path to experiencing the contrasting yet equally captivating beauty of two iconic national parks: the whimsical hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, a natural amphitheater teeming with vibrant stone sentinels, and the rugged, water-carved wonders of Capitol Reef, where towering cliffs and historic orchards tell tales of time.

But the magic of Highway 12 also extends far beyond these national treasures, offering a tapestry of stunning state parks, dramatic overlooks, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered at every turn. Prepare to be mesmerized as you traverse this scenic corridor, each stop revealing a new facet of Utah's unparalleled natural grandeur. Check out our 12 favorite experiences along Highway 12:

1. Red Canyon

2. Bryce Canyon National Park

3. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

4. Kodachrome Basin State Park

5. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

6. Calf Creek Falls

7. Hell's Backbone Loop

8. Burr Trail

9. Boulder Mountain

10. Torrey

11. Capitol Reef

12. East of the Reef

Or View a Detailed 4-Day Itinerary

1. Red Canyon: Your Fiery Welcome to Highway 12. Just off the main road, prepare to be wowed by a vibrant preview of Bryce Canyon's wonders. Hike among its brilliant red and orange hoodoos – nature's whimsical sculptures – and feel the desert sun paint the landscape in breathtaking hues. It's a taste of the magic to come!

2. Bryce Canyon National Park: A Fairyland of Stone Sentinels. Descend into a breathtaking amphitheater teeming with thousands of delicate, otherworldly hoodoos. Wander through this silent city of vibrant pinks, oranges, and whites, and discover why this iconic stop on Highway 12 feels like stepping into a geological dream. Don't forget your camera – every vista is a postcard!

3. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument: Unearth Ancient Secrets in a Vast Wilderness. Prepare for an adventure into a truly untamed landscape. This colossal monument unfolds like a geological history book, revealing layers of colorful cliffs, hidden canyons, and dramatic plateaus. Hike to ancient ruins, discover hidden arches, and feel the profound solitude of this rugged and awe-inspiring expanse. Highway 12 cuts right through the heart of the Grand Staircase, offering glimpses into its grandeur.

4. Kodachrome Basin State Park: Where Rainbow Rocks Reach for the Sky. Prepare to be mesmerized by a surreal landscape of towering, multicolored sandstone spires and chimneys. Each formation boasts its own unique palette, creating a photographer's paradise. Wander through this geological gallery and let the vibrant hues of Kodachrome Basin ignite your imagination.

5. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park: Walk Among Ancient Giants Turned to Stone. Journey back in time as you explore a landscape scattered with the fossilized remains of prehistoric trees. Touch the smooth, stony surfaces of these ancient giants and imagine a long-lost world. Hike the trails at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park and discover the beauty and wonder of this unique geological treasure along Highway 12.

6. Calf Creek Falls: Discover a Desert Oasis and Cascading Beauty. Take a refreshing detour to this stunning desert oasis. Hike along a picturesque creek-side trail, listening to the gentle murmur of water as you approach not one, but two breathtaking waterfalls plunging into cool, inviting pools. It's the perfect spot to cool off and reconnect with nature's beauty.

7. Hell's Backbone Loop: A Thrilling Drive on a Knife-Edge Ridge (High Clearance Recommended!). For the adventurous, this dramatic dirt road offers an unforgettable (and sometimes nerve-wracking!) experience. Traverse a narrow ridge with jaw-dropping drop-offs on either side, rewarded by unparalleled panoramic vistas. This isn't for the faint of heart, but the views are undeniably spectacular.

8. Burr Trail Loop: A Scenic Backway Through Time and Terrain. Embark on a captivating journey along this diverse byway, transitioning from paved roads to graded dirt. Wind through dramatic canyons, ascend slickrock mesas, and pass by striking geological formations. The Burr Trail offers a more intimate and less-traveled perspective of Utah's stunning backcountry.

9. Boulder Mountain: Ascend to Alpine Beauty and Panoramic Vistas. Escape the desert heat and ascend to the cool, forested heights of Boulder Mountain. Discover shimmering lakes, lush meadows, and endless hiking trails. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the surrounding landscape – a refreshing contrast to the canyons below.

10. Torrey: Your Charming Basecamp for Capitol Reef Adventures. This quaint and welcoming town serves as the perfect launching pad for exploring Capitol Reef National Park and the surrounding wonders. Enjoy local hospitality, find cozy accommodations, and fuel up for your adventures amidst the stunning backdrop of red rock cliffs.

11. Capitol Reef National Park: Explore a Geological Wrinkle and Historic Orchards. Discover the unique Waterpocket Fold, a dramatic warp in the Earth's crust, revealing towering cliffs, sculpted canyons, and hidden arches. Explore historic orchards, hike to panoramic viewpoints, and uncover the fascinating blend of geology and human history that defines this captivating park.

12. East of the Reef (Bentonite Hills, Factory Butte, Cathedral Valley, etc.): Journey to an Alien Landscape. Venture off the beaten path into a surreal and captivating region. Witness the otherworldly, colorful clay formations of the Bentonite Hills, marvel at the stark silhouette of Factory Butte, and explore the dramatic, cathedral-like rock formations of Cathedral Valley. This remote area promises a truly unique and unforgettable desert experience (often requiring 4x4 vehicles).

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:

Panguitch to Bryce Canyon

Depart Panguitch, driving Highway 89 and connecting with Highway 12 to begin your journey.

- Driving Highway 12 through Red Canyon offers breathtaking scenic views of its crimson spires and hoodoos, and you will even get the chance to drive through red rock arches.

Explore Bryce Canyon National Park:

Options:

- Consider a stop at the Visitor Center for information.
- Walk the Rim Trail, viewing Sunset, Inspiration, or Bryce Points.
- Hike a portion of the Navajo Loop or Queen's Garden trail.
- Consider returning to Sunset Point to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Overnight:

- Stay overnight in Bryce Canyon City, or nearby towns.
- Be sure to check out the night sky. Bryce Canyon National Park is an International Dark Sky Park and offers exceptional stargazing due to its minimal light pollution, high elevation, and clear, dry air.

Day 2:

Continue your journey on Highway 12 to Escalante, first stop, Kodachrome Basin State Park.

Kodachrome Basin State Park:

Located just off Highway 12 (approximately 7 miles south on the paved Utah State Route 400). This short detour from the main highway leads you into a landscape of vibrant sandstone formations, stunning multicolored spires and chimneys.

Lunch:

Enjoy a relaxed lunch in Escalante, where local cafes and restaurants offer hearty meals and friendly service, perfect for refueling amidst the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Calf Creek Falls:

The hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls is a 6-mile roundtrip trail, typically taking 3-4 hours, and is considered moderately difficult.

Overnight:

Return to Escalante for overnight stay. Escalante offers diverse lodging, from hotels and cabins to RV parks and unique glamping style stays.

Day 3:

Continue your journey on HWY 12 to Torrey

Driving Highway 12 to Torrey offers a scenic journey with several notable attractions. The route includes the dramatic Hogsback, the thrilling Hell's Backbone Road, and the expansive views from Boulder Mountain, each contributing to the unique beauty of the landscape.

Lunch:

Enjoy picking from a variety of dining options for lunch in Torrey, whether a quick bite or a relaxed meal, before exploring Highway 24 and Capitol Reef National Park.

Continue on to Capitol Reef National Park:

Drive Highway 24 to Capitol Reef National Park. You could consider a stop at Panorama Point for view of Capitol Reef, the Henry Mountains, and Boulder Mountain OR continue on into the park for more time to enjoy the majesty of the Center of Utah's Mighty Five.

- Be sure to stop at the historic Gifford House for a famous post lunch pie that celebrates the heritage of the historic orchards in the park.
- There are a variety of ways to enjoy what time you have in the park such as scenic drive through Capitol Reef's stunning landscapes, hikes like the moderate trail to Hickman Bridge, the canyon walk through Grand Wash, or the more challenging trek to Cassidy Arch, each revealing the park's unique beauty and geological wonders.

Overnight:

Return to Torrey for overnight.

Day 4:

Drive the Burr Trail Loop:

The Burr Trail features switchbacks that descend into the Waterpocket Fold, offering breathtaking and unforgettable panoramic views of the surrounding scenery, canyons, and mesas.

- A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to drive the entire loop.
- Services are limited, so bring pack a lunch, bring plenty of water, and a full gas tank.
- Allow ample time to complete the loop, as the unpaved sections can be slow-going.

Overnight:

Conclude your day with a relaxing evening in either Torrey or Hanksville. Both towns provide a range of year-round dining options and offer a variety of comfortable accommodations, ensuring a pleasant end to your incredible Highway 12 adventure.