Discover Scenic Byway 12

There are road trips, and then there’s Utah’s Scenic Byway 12, a drive that forces you to pull over far more often than you planned for “just one picture.” Stretching 124 miles between Panguitch and Torrey, this high-desert corridor slices through landscapes borrowed from another planet. Sandstone cliffs, ancient canyons, alpine forests, and narrow ridges where the land just falls away—this unforgettable route has adventure etched into every scenic mile.

Designated as an All-American Road, Scenic Byway 12 is a destination in itself. And whether you’re behind the wheel of an RV, a rented convertible, or something more practical, the memories made here won’t wash off with the red dust on your tires. Here’s the best way to experience this desert marvel, with a few places to stop along the way.

First, what elevates a highway from scenic to unforgettable? For Byway 12, it’s the sheer variety of sights packed into those 124 miles. One moment you’re winding through crimson rock corridors, and the next you’re cresting a mountain over 9,000 feet high with views stretching all the way to northern Arizona.

This route connects two national parks—Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef—with a lot of space in between that’s no less impressive. You’ll pass through sections of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, climb Boulder Mountain, and cruise across a razor-thin ridge known as the Hogback, where the road feels suspended between heaven and the canyon floor.

What makes Byway 12 truly rare is how frequently the scenery shifts, not just in the foliage or weather, but the landscape itself. It's a drive that takes you through the pages of some of Earth's greatest geological history.

If you’re thinking of treating Scenic Byway 12 as a point-A-to-point-B sprint, reconsider. This route rewards the slow traveler, the wanderer, and those with a loose itinerary and a fully charged camera.

Red Canyon

Right out of the gate, Red Canyon sets the tone with its otherworldly rock formations and natural arches that span across the road at several points. It’s like the pre-show to Bryce, but without the crowds. Quick hikes like the Pink Ledges Trail offer high reward without too much of a strain.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Even if you’ve seen photos, nothing prepares you for the first glimpse into Bryce Canyon. Thousands of hoodoos—those twisted, red-rock spires—stand frozen in time. Sunrise Point is appropriately named, and the Queen’s Garden trail is one of the most accessible ways to dip into the canyon’s amphitheater.

Kodachrome Basin State Park

Named after the famous color film, Kodachrome Basin is packed with contrast and texture through towering sand pipes and formations that feel sculpted with intention. The colors shift throughout the day, from warm golds to dusty reds, and the quiet trails here are perfect if you’re seeking solitude just off the main route.

Escalante and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

The town of Escalante makes a solid pit stop for food, gas, or a strong cup of coffee. But the real magic lies in the wilderness nearby. Take a short hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls—a 126-foot waterfall that serves as an oasis after a sun-soaked trek.

The Hogback

This part of the drive is not for the faint of heart—or distracted drivers. The road clings to a narrow ridge, with drop-offs on both sides and no guardrails to cushion a mistake. But the views? Spectacular. Roll down your window, turn off the music, and let the silence and scale of the scene sink in.

Boulder Mountain

Don’t be surprised if you see deer (or snow) at this elevation. Boulder Mountain is a forested detour that feels dramatically different from the desert scenes below. Keep your eyes peeled for viewpoints offering glimpses across Capitol Reef and the Henry Mountains.

Timing your road trip can make all the difference. Spring and fall are prime—not too hot, not too cold, and colors that would make for a great postcard. Summer brings the crowds and higher temps, especially near lower elevations like Escalante. Winter? It’s doable, but be prepared for snow at higher passes.

This is a remote stretch of desert, so fuel up when you can, and don’t assume you’ll have cell service. Bring water, snacks, and layers. Temperatures can swing wildly between Bryce and Boulder Mountain.

If hiking is on the agenda, check trail conditions ahead of time. Flash floods are no joke in slot canyons. And always pull off the road fully before attempting that perfect photo.

By the time you roll into Torrey, you’ll want a real bed and a place that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. That’s where The Loubird Inn comes in, with a stay that feels curated, not commercial.

Located just minutes from Capitol Reef, we blend thoughtful design with real-world comfort. This isn’t a sleep-and-go setup. It’s the kind of inn where you exhale, unpack fully, and maybe decide one night isn’t quite enough. Expect crisp sheets, quiet corners, and little details that make a big difference — from local coffee to architecture that mirrors the landscape outside.

If you’re planning to end your Scenic Byway 12 adventure on a high note, book your stay at The Loubird Inn. So, what are you waiting for? Pack a small bag, load up the car, and see where the road takes you.

An Unforgettable Drive Through Utah's Scenic Byway 12

What Makes Scenic Byway 12 So Remarkable

Iconic Stops Along the Route