12 MUST SEE STOPS ON SCENIC BYWAY 12
Unveil the heart of Utah’s captivating beauty along the legendary Scenic Byway 12 (and Highway 24). This All-American Road is your gateway to a world of dramatic contrasts, where the ethereal, spire-filled landscapes of Bryce Canyon’s natural amphitheater meet the ancient, water-sculpted canyons and historic echoes of Capitol Reef. Experience the dynamic shift from vibrant hoodoo formations to towering cliffs and lush orchards, a journey through time and nature’s artistry.
EAST OF THE REEF
Discover another world east of Capitol Reef. The ‘East of the Reef‘ region unveils a surreal landscape of unparalleled beauty, featuring the vibrant, sculpted Bentonite Hills (also referred to as Mars), the imposing silhouette of Factory Butte, and the majestic, cathedral-like formations of Cathedral Valley. This remote expanse offers a captivating adventure for those seeking extraordinary desert experiences. Prepare for an off-the-beaten-path journey, often requiring 4×4 vehicles, to witness these truly unique geological wonders.
CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK
Journey into the center of the Mighty Five at Capitol Reef National Park, where the Earth’s history is etched into the landscape. Explore the Waterpocket Fold, showcasing itself as towering cliffs, intricate canyons, and hidden natural arches. Discover the park’s unique blend of natural and human history. Hike scenic trails to breathtaking viewpoints, and witness the captivating fusion of geology and cultural heritage that makes Capitol Reef an unforgettable destination.
TORREY
Your Gateway to Capitol Reef’s Wonders. Discover the unparalleled convenience of Torrey, a charming town strategically located for seamless access to Capitol Reef National Park and its surrounding natural treasures. Experience genuine hospitality; choose from a variety of comfortable accommodations and food to prepare you for your adventures amidst the breathtaking panorama of vibrant red rock cliffs. Torrey offers the perfect blend of comfort and proximity, making it an ideal base for your exploration.
BOULDER MOUNTAIN
Discover a serene alpine escape atop Boulder Mountain, a world apart from the desert landscapes below. Immerse yourself in cool, forested heights, where inviting lakes and vibrant meadows are waiting to be explored and hiked.
BURR TRAIL LOOP
Transform your perspective of Utah’s backcountry with a captivating drive along the Burr Trail. This diverse byway guides you from smooth pavement to adventurous graded dirt roads, revealing dramatic canyons, expansive slickrock mesas, and unique geological formations. Experience the less-traveled (with a high clearance vehicle) and enjoy another of Utah’s remarkable landscapes.
HELL'S BACKBONE LOOP
Experience a drive unlike any other on the Hell’s Backbone Loop, a high-clearance dirt road that carves through Utah’s rugged landscape. This route presents a thrilling traverse along a knife-edge ridge, where jaw-dropping drop-offs lead to sweeping, unforgettable vistas. While demanding and exciting, the Hell’s Backbone Loop offers a truly unique backcountry adventure.
CALF CREEK FALLS
Escape the desert heat and discover the cascading beauty of Calf Creek Falls. This refreshing oasis offers a picturesque hike along a gentle creek-side trail, culminating in the sight and sound of two breathtaking waterfalls plunging into cool, inviting pools. Immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility and enjoy a revitalizing experience in this desert paradise
ESCALANTE PETRIFIED FOREST
Witness the remarkable transformation of life into stone at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Explore a landscape where ancient trees have left their lasting legacy, their fossilized remains scattered across the terrain. Observe the stony surfaces of these prehistoric trees, and contemplate a world long gone. Hike the trails and immerse yourself in the enduring beauty and wonder of this geological monument along Highway 12.
KODACHROME BASIN
Capture the extraordinary beauty of Kodachrome Basin State Park, a photographer’s dreamscape of multicolored sandstone spires. This unique landscape, featuring towering chimneys and formations, presents a stunning array of colors. Journey through this natural wonder and let the vibrant hues of Kodachrome Basin inspire your creative vision.
GRAND STAIRCASE - ESCALANTE
Venture into the untamed heart of Utah’s wilderness with an adventure through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. This immense landscape, a geological tapestry, reveals layers of colorful cliffs, hidden canyons, and sweeping plateaus. Hike to ancient settlements, seek out hidden arches, and immerse yourself in the profound solitude of this rugged and awe-inspiring terrain. Highway 12 traverses this magnificent monument, offering glimpses into its vast and captivating beauty.
BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Enter a surreal realm at Bryce Canyon National Park, where a vast amphitheater reveals a breathtaking city of stone sentinels. Explore this landscape of delicate, otherworldly hoodoos, painted in vibrant pinks, oranges, and whites. Discover why this iconic Highway 12 destination feels like stepping into a geological fantasy, and capture the postcard-perfect vistas that await at every turn
RED CANYON
Discover the vibrant beauty of Red Canyon, a hidden gem just off Highway 12. Hike among its whimsical hoodoos, natural sculptures carved by time and painted in brilliant red and orange hues. Feel the warmth of the desert sun as it illuminates the landscape, offering a breathtaking preview of the wonders found in nearby Bryce Canyon.
4 DAY ITINERARY
Day 1
Enjoy a Backcountry Expedition:
- Embark on a full-day adventure through the diverse landscapes of the Burr Trail Loop or Cathedral Valley.
- Prepare a packed lunch to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty.
- Plan for dinner and overnight accommodations in Hanksville or Torrey.
Day 2
Highway 24’s Scenic Wonders to Torrey:
- Start the day East of the Reef: The Bentonite Hills, Factory Butte, and more.
- Travel via Highway 24 to Capitol Reef National Park, a land of geological wonders and historical sites.
- Indulge in a slice of the renowned pie at the historic Gifford House.
Wrapping up the day:
- Enjoy an evening meal in the charming town of Torrey, experiencing its local culinary scene.
- If you have the energy to venture back out and enjoy the sunset at Sunset or Panorama Point.
- Return to Torrey for a relaxing overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
- Pack a lunch for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 3
Highway 12 Scenic Drive to Escalante:
- Continue your adventure along Highway 12, a designated All-American Road, renowned for its stunning landscapes. Enjoy the scenic drive, capturing the beauty of Southern Utah.
- Pause for photographic opportunities at the majestic Boulder Mountain and enjoy the thrill of the drive over Hell’s Backbone.
Calf Creek Falls: A Desert Oasis:
- Head to the captivating Calf Creek Falls, a refreshing desert oasis.
- Hike the scenic trail to the stunning waterfalls and enjoy the cool pools.
- Experience the contrast of water and desert.
Escalante Culinary Break:
- Enjoy a relaxing lunch in the charming town of Escalante.
- Refuel for the evening adventure.
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park:
Explore a landscape of ancient trees turned to stone.
Hike trails to discover petrified wood.
Witness a unique geological site.
Night in Escalante:
- Return to Escalante for a comfortable overnight stay.
- Enjoy the small town atmosphere, and prepare for the next days journey.
Day 4
Kodachrome Basin State Park: A Palette of Colors:
- Take a memorable detour to Kodachrome Basin State Park.
- Explore the park’s unique geological formations, including vibrant sandstone spires and chimneys.
- Capture the park’s namesake colors, a photographer’s delight.
Bryce Canyon National Park Exploration:
- Immerse yourself in the otherworldly beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park.
- Explore the park’s iconic amphitheaters, filled with intricate hoodoo formations.
- Hike along scenic trails and capture panoramic views of the unique landscape.
Red Canyon: A Fiery Introduction:
- Capture breathtaking photographs while driving through Red Canyon, a vibrant prelude to Bryce Canyon.
- Witness the striking red and orange hoodoos, natural sculptures that paint the landscape.
- Experience the dramatic beauty of this accessible canyon.
Overnight:
- Return to the Bryce area for a comfortable overnight stay or proceed to Panguitch for one of the many accommodations offered there.
For more information, including a free travel guide, to help plan your trip:
