Route 12 Scenic Drive

Route 12 Scenic Drive is a stunning 104km road trip that begins in Escalante and ends in Torrey, United States. This drive takes you through the picturesque town of Boulder, and is best enjoyed at any time of the year. Along the route, you will be able to experience the amazing landscapes of the United States, and take in the breathtaking views. The road conditions are excellent, with only slightly curvy roads along the way. This road trip provides a very high level of experience and will give you memories that will last a lifetime. It is suitable for all drivers and can be managed with a moderate budget. So why not take the Route 12 Scenic Drive and make your journey all the more memorable?

Escalante in the United States offers travelers a wide variety of attractions and activities. Located in the heart of beautiful red-rock country, this small town is the perfect starting point for the "Route 12 Scenic Drive" road trip. For those looking to explore the local area, Escalante is home to a number of scenic vistas, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore scenic sandstone canyons, explore the vast Anasazi archaeological sites, or soak in the natural beauty of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. For the adventurous traveler, there are also plenty of opportunities for mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-road exploration. For those looking to travel to Escalante by air, the closest international airport is in Las Vegas, Nevada, (IATA code LAS). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the area. No matter how you choose to explore Escalante, you are sure to find something to suit your interests. From the stunning views of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to the adventure of exploring the backroads of the area, Escalante is a great starting point for the "Route 12 Scenic Drive" road trip.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Escalante to Boulder! This 44 km journey will take less than an hour to complete, and you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the stunning landscapes along the way. Winding roads and picturesque views will be the perfect accompaniment for your road trip. Take your time to explore the historical sites and absorb the serenity of the area. Enjoy the scenic drive and don’t forget to take some photos to capture the moment! As you make your way to Boulder, you’ll be able to find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!

Let your road trip start in Boulder, United States and end in Torrey, a drive of only 60 km and less than an hour! As you drive, you'll find yourself traveling through some of the most stunning scenery. Along the way, you'll pass through historical sites, scenic roads, and winding sections. Make sure to take the time to stop and take in the views! On your journey, be sure to visit the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, WY, to learn more about the historic trails and the people who traveled them. Then, you can visit the Fossil Butte National Monument, where you can explore the fossils, petroglyphs, and other geological wonders. Finally, take a break at the unique Red Canyon Visitor Center in Torrey, UT, to learn more about the local geology and get some great views of the canyon. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

The town of Torrey, in the US state of Utah, marks the end of the Route 12 Scenic Drive. This winding road, with its incredible views and picturesque vistas, is an ideal way to explore the area. As you enter Torrey, you’ll find a number of attractions to enjoy. The Capitol Reef National Park is a great place to start your exploration. The park offers a variety of activities, from biking and hiking to camping and more. Capitol Reef also offers a number of geological features, including the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust, and the Hickman Bridge, an arch made of sandstone. The nearby Goblin Valley State Park is another must-see attraction. This park has a variety of unique landscapes, including the famous “goblin” formations, as well as caves and slot canyons. Torrey is also home to the Fremont Petroglyphs, a collection of ancient rock carvings made by the Fremont culture. This is a great way to explore the area’s rich cultural history. If you’re traveling to Torrey by air, the nearest international airport is the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). From there, you can rent a car and make the short drive to Torrey. The town of Torrey is the perfect place to end the Route 12 Scenic Drive. With its incredible beauty, fascinating attractions, and rich cultural history, Torrey has something for everyone to enjoy.

Before you set off

The Route 12 Scenic Byway, also known as `A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway,` offers a mesmerizing 124-mile (approximately 200 km) experience from Escalante to Torrey in Utah, one of the most scenic states in the US. This alluring route weaves through some of the most diverse, remote, and ruggedly beautiful landscapes in the country. It provides an unforgettable visual feast, traversing the heart of southern Utah's red rock country and connecting several national and state parks. Ideal for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, the journey can be done on a moderate budget and is accessible to drivers of varying skill levels.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The byway takes travelers on a thrilling path through diverse terrains, including the serene town of Boulder, and past iconic landmarks such as the Dixie National Forest, with its sprawling forest of ponderosa pines and high-altitude vistas, and the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, known for its rugged and intricate geological formations. The route also offers glimpses of Capitol Reef National Park's cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges, adding to the region's dramatic beauty. Other top sights include the Calf Creek Falls, striking natural bridges, and the Anasazi State Park Museum, which showcases the area's rich Native American heritage.

Best Time to Go:

The Route 12 Scenic Drive is enchanting all year; however, late spring to early autumn offers ideal weather conditions for exploring. The springtime blooms and the vivid autumn colors provide a breathtaking backdrop for the journey. Winters can be equally stunning, with snow highlighting the red rocks, though travelers should be prepared for colder temperatures and potential road closures.

Potential Risks:

The byway is well-maintained, but it includes steep grades and hairpin turns that demand attentive driving. The region's weather can be unpredictable, with potential for sudden rain or snowstorms, particularly at higher elevations, so it's advisable to check forecasts and road conditions before setting out.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

Route 12 is one of the few routes designated as an All-American Road, recognizing its exceptional scenic, historic, and cultural significance. It also crosses over the Hogback, a narrow ridge where the road seems to cling to the cliff edge, providing exhilarating views of the canyons below. Along the route, travelers will find numerous trailheads, offering the opportunity to stretch their legs and explore the scenery on foot.

A good choice for:

Taking the Route 12 Scenic Drive is to embark on a voyage of discovery, where each bend in the road presents a new panorama. It's a journey that combines adventure and serenity, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in some of the most astonishing landscapes the United States has to offer, and is a must-do for any Road Trip enthusiast.