Utah is a strange and wondrous world. Out of all the states (29) that I’ve been to, this one is the most interesting. From the Salt Flats (out of this world strange) in the North to the rocky formations and aspen forests in the South. Scenic Byway 12 cuts through many of Utah’s most amazing features, including several National Parks.
Red Canyon
The Red Canyon is the first stop on Scenic Byway 12. There is plenty to do here, including hiking and camping.
There are trails for every level hiker. The Birdseye Trail is 0.8 miles long and offers up-close views of the red rock formations. A more rugged 3-mile hike through Losee Canyon gives hikers a look at some of the best that Red Canyon has to offer.
Due to time constraints, we took the 0.8-mile round trip hike to Mossy Cave, which included unique hoodoos, windows, and a beautiful waterfall, and the Birdseye Trail.
The trails are open all year round. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities.
The Grand Staircase National Monument
The Grand Staircase National Monument is rather unique. According to the National Park Service, because of its remote location and rugged landscape, the Grand Staircase National Monument was one of the last places in the continental United States to be mapped.
It stretches over five life zones, from desert to coniferous forest. It has provided more information about the ecosystem changes that occurred at the end of the era of dinosaurs than any other place in the world. It has become a favorite location for geologists, paleontologists, archeologists, and biologists.
Along with its historical and environmental impact, it is also a beautiful place to visit. Hiking opportunities are plentiful.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park isn’t technically on Scenic Byway 12 but it is close enough and is well worth it. This park is filled with cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges. It has stunning views and is another geological and historical wonderland.
There are plenty of activities for every adventurer in this park. Road tours, camping, hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing are just a few activities that visitors can participate in.
We did a little road touring and hiking. At one point, we came across an old school and the cabin of a family who settled in the park. However, after a year they found that the conditions were too harsh. Either flash floods destroyed their irrigation or they endured horrible droughts.
There are several day hikes available that range from easy to strenuous with views from cliff edges or through narrow gorges. Distances vary. Backcountry hiking is also an option.
More Information
For more information about Utah’s Scenic Route Highway 12, visit Highway 12 – All American Road. This was certainly one of my personal favorite scenic byway adventures and I look forward to returning to all of these places to experience more of Utah’s beauty.