Map Of Hwy 12

Are you planning a trip along the famous Hwy 12? If so, you are in for a treat! This scenic highway stretches for 124 miles and offers breathtaking views of Utah’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone on Hwy 12. Our comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your trip by highlighting the top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites.

Top Attractions

One of the most popular attractions on Hwy 12 is Bryce Canyon National Park. This stunning park is known for its unique rock formations, hoodoos, and red rock spires. Another must-see attraction is Capitol Reef National Park, which features orchards, canyons, and towering sandstone formations. For a glimpse into Utah’s past, visit the Anasazi State Park Museum, where you can learn about the ancient Ancestral Puebloan people who once lived in the area.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Hwy 12 has plenty to offer. The Lower Calf Creek Falls hike is a hidden gem that leads you to a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole. For a unique dining experience, try Hell’s Backbone Grill, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves delicious meals made with local ingredients. The Kiva Koffeehouse is another hidden gem, located in a stunning red rock canyon. Enjoy a cup of coffee and take in the breathtaking views.

Food Scene

Utah may not be known for its cuisine, but Hwy 12 has plenty of tasty options. The Burr Trail Grill in Boulder serves up delicious burgers and homemade pies. The Rim Rock Restaurant in Torrey is another local favorite, offering hearty breakfasts and dinners. For a unique dining experience, try the Gifford Homestead in Capitol Reef National Park, where you can enjoy homemade pies and ice cream made from fruit grown in the park’s orchards.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? No problem! There are plenty of budget-friendly activities on Hwy 12. Many of the hiking trails are free, and the views are priceless. If you’re camping, the BLM campgrounds offer affordable options. You can also save money by packing your own food and eating at picnic areas or roadside pullouts.

Outdoor Adventures

Hwy 12 is an outdoor lover’s paradise. In addition to hiking, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. You can go horseback riding in Escalante, mountain biking in the Dixie National Forest, or rock climbing in Capitol Reef National Park. For a unique adventure, try canyoneering in the slot canyons of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Historical Landmarks

Utah is rich in history, and Hwy 12 is no exception. The town of Boulder is home to the Anasazi State Park Museum, where you can learn about the ancient Ancestral Puebloan people who once lived in the area. The town of Escalante has several historic buildings, including the Old Escalante Pioneer Cabin and the Escalante Heritage Center. For a glimpse into Utah’s mining history, visit the Gifford Homestead in Capitol Reef National Park.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities on Hwy 12. The town of Escalante has a dinosaur museum, where you can see fossils and learn about Utah’s prehistoric past. The town of Torrey has a fun mini-golf course, and the Rim Rock Restaurant is a great spot for a family dinner. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the Slot Canyons Inn, where you can see farm animals and learn about sustainable living.

Natural Wonders

Utah is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, and Hwy 12 is no exception. From Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos to Capitol Reef’s towering sandstone formations, there’s no shortage of breathtaking views. The Burr Trail Scenic Backway is another must-see, offering stunning views of the Waterpocket Fold. For a unique natural wonder, visit the Devil’s Garden in Escalante, where you can see hoodoos and natural arches.

Vibrant Nightlife

While Hwy 12 may not be known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of places to enjoy a drink or two. The Hell’s Backbone Grill in Boulder serves up delicious cocktails, and the Circle D Eatery in Escalante has a great selection of beer and wine. For a unique experience, try the Escalante Outfitters, where you can enjoy live music and a cold beer.

Local Markets

If you’re looking for fresh produce and handmade crafts, Hwy 12 has plenty of local markets to explore. The Boulder Farmers Market is held on Saturdays and features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade jewelry. The Escalante Outfitters has a market on Saturdays as well, offering locally made goods and crafts.

Beaches and Mountains

While Utah may not have any beaches, there are still plenty of places to enjoy the great outdoors. The town of Boulder is surrounded by mountains, offering plenty of hiking and mountain biking opportunities. The town of Torrey is located near the Fishlake National Forest, which is home to several lakes and streams. For a unique beach experience, visit the Sand Dunes in Escalante, where you can hike up and slide down the sand dunes.

Cultural Immersion

Utah is home to several Native American tribes, and Hwy 12 offers plenty of opportunities to learn about their culture. The Anasazi State Park Museum in Boulder has exhibits on the ancient Ancestral Puebloan people, and the Escalante Heritage Center has exhibits on the history of the town. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Escalante Pow Wow, which is held every year in September.

Art and Music Scene

Utah may not be known for its art and music scene, but Hwy 12 has plenty to offer. The town of Boulder has several art galleries, including the Boulder Mountain Gallery and the Anasazi Indian Art Gallery. The town of Escalante has a vibrant music scene, with live music at the Escalante Outfitters and other venues.

Walking Tours

If you’re looking for a leisurely way to explore the area, there are several walking tours available. The town of Boulder offers a historic walking tour, which takes you past several historic buildings and landmarks. The town of Escalante has a self-guided walking tour, which takes you past several historic buildings and sites.

Architectural Marvels

Utah is home to several architectural marvels, and Hwy 12 offers plenty of opportunities to admire them. The Kiva Koffeehouse in Escalante is a unique structure built into a red rock canyon. The Bicknell Bottoms Nature Preserve has a stunning boardwalk that takes you through a wetland area. For a unique architectural experience, visit the Gifford Homestead in Capitol Reef National Park, which was built in the 1800s.

Historical Sites

Utah is rich in history, and Hwy 12 has plenty of historical sites to explore. The town of Boulder has several historic buildings, including the Anasazi State Park Museum and the Boulder Church. The town of Escalante has several historic buildings as well, including the Old Escalante Pioneer Cabin and the Escalante Heritage Center. For a unique historical experience, visit the Fremont Indian State Park, which has exhibits on the Fremont people who once lived in the area.

Biking Routes

Hwy 12 is a popular destination for cyclists, with several scenic biking routes to choose from. The Burr Trail Scenic Backway is a popular route that takes you through the Waterpocket Fold. The Hell’s Backbone Road is another popular route, offering stunning views of the area. For a unique biking experience, try the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park, which is a 100-mile loop that takes you through stunning canyons and mesas.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Hwy 12 has plenty of options. The Boulder Mountain Lodge offers yoga and wellness retreats throughout the year. The Red Mountain Resort in St. George is another popular wellness retreat, offering hiking, yoga, and spa treatments. The New Lodge at Bryce Canyon is another great option, offering yoga and meditation classes with stunning views of the canyon.

Adventure Sports

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Hwy 12 has plenty of adventure sports to offer. The town of Escalante is a popular destination for canyoneering, with several guide companies offering tours. The Dixie National Forest is a popular destination for mountain biking, with several trails to choose from. For a unique adventure, try the zipline course at the Red Mountain Resort in St. George.

With so much to see and do along Hwy 12, it’s no wonder that it’s one of Utah’s top destinations. Whether