Notom-Bullfrog Road

Notom-Bullfrog Road is a 69km road trip that starts in Fruita, United States and ends in Surprise Canyon, United States. This road trip is best experienced during the spring and summer months, when the weather is at its best. Along the route, you will be able to witness the breathtaking landscapes of the canyon and the high desert terrain of the region. Please be aware that the road conditions can be poor in some sections, and that seasonal road closures due to weather conditions can occur. The route includes narrow roads in some sections, so caution should be taken while driving. This road trip provides a unique and memorable experience, suitable for all drivers. It can be managed with a fair budget, making it a great option for those who want to explore the area.

Fruita, located in the US state of Colorado, is an ideal starting point for the "Notom-Bullfrog Road" road trip. The town offers much to explore, including the Colorado National Monument, an impressive landscape of red-rock canyons and stunning views of the Grand Valley and the Book Cliffs mountain range. The James M. Robb - Colorado River State Park is another popular spot, with miles of trails, riverside camping and fishing spots. The Fruita Historic District is a great place to explore the town's history, with buildings and monuments from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is the Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) with car rental services available. From there, the scenic drive along the Notom-Bullfrog Road begins, taking you through the stunning red-rock canyons and deep gorges of the Colorado National Monument. Along the way, you'll pass through several small towns and discover the best of Utah's breathtaking landscapes.

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Fruita, United States and make your way to Surprise Canyon in just under three hours. This 43 mile journey will take you through some of the most spectacular scenery in the area. Be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow roads, seasonal closures, and lack of gas stations. Along the way, you'll pass through a number of interesting places, including the Colorado National Monument, the Grand Valley, and the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. With so much to explore and discover, it's no wonder why this route is so popular. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your journey.

Surprise Canyon is a stunning destination located at the end of the Notom-Bullfrog Road in the United States. The area is filled with breathtaking natural beauty and is an ideal place to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing camping trip or an adventurous hike, Surprise Canyon has something to offer. The Notom-Bullfrog Road is a scenic route that runs through the rugged terrain of south-central Utah and northern Arizona. It is a great way to experience the unique landscape of the desert and the beauty of the canyons. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of interesting places to explore, including the ghost towns of Notom and Bullfrog. When you arrive at Surprise Canyon, you’ll be greeted by a stunning landscape of towering red rock formations and sandstone cliffs. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, offering breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding desert. You can also take a guided tour of the canyon or explore the area on your own. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are several campgrounds in the area. You can also find a few lodges and guest houses in the nearby towns of Notom and Bullfrog. The closest international airport to Surprise Canyon is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada (IATA: LAS). From there, you can rent a car and drive to Surprise Canyon in about four hours. Surprise Canyon is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors. With its stunning scenery and plenty of opportunities for adventure, it’s the perfect place to end your Notom-Bullfrog Road trip.

Before you set off

Embark on the picturesque Notom-Bullfrog Road Trip, a 69-kilometer (43-mile) journey from Fruita to the stunning Surprise Canyon, located in the rugged landscapes of Capitol Reef National Park in southern Utah, USA. Revel in the opportunity to immerse yourself in the diverse geology, including striking rock formations, vast desert expanses, and layered sandstone cliffs that tell a story of millions of years of earth's history.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

As you travel along this remote route, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust known as a monocline. Keep an eye out for the kaleidoscope of colors at sunset and sunrise that illuminate the cliffs and canyons. You may also encounter diverse ecosystems supporting unique desert flora like juniper trees and cacti, as well as fauna such as mule deer, coyotes, and numerous bird species.

Best Time to Go:

The best time to embark on this Road Trip is from late spring to early fall. During these months, you'll experience comfortable temperatures and the blooming of desert wildflowers, adding a splash of color to the landscape. Be mindful of the intense heat in the peak of summer and always carry plenty of water.

Potential Risks:

This backcountry route is mostly unpaved and may be rough or washboarded, requiring a high-clearance vehicle, and in some places, it might warrant a 4WD. Sudden weather changes can lead to flash floods, particularly from late summer to early fall, and travelers should always check current conditions before setting out.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

The Notom-Bullfrog Road is not only a journey through stunning scenery but also a step back in time. The area is rich in history, from the Fremont Culture that inhabited the region a thousand years ago to the Mormon pioneers who settled in Fruita in the late 1800s. You can still see evidence of their homesteads and orchards today. The Road Trip is an economical adventure as there are no entrance fees for the backcountry areas of Capitol Reef National Park, and the journey offers a sense of solitude and connection with nature that is hard to find elsewhere.

A good choice for:

The Notom-Bullfrog Road Trip is an unforgettable excursion into the wild heart of Utah's high desert and canyon country, offering a serene and introspective travel experience. It's a must-do for those yearning to explore the less-traveled paths and witness the dramatic beauty of the American Southwest.