Six Days in Utah – Capital Reef to Bryce Canyon on Utah Highway 12 (Part 2)

Hey fellow explorers! Let’s talk about Capitol Reef National Park – a hidden gem among Utah’s Big Five parks. Nestled between Moab and Bryce Canyon, this park often gets overlooked because it’s not on the main route. But trust me, it’s worth veering off the beaten path to experience its wonders.

Capitol Reef is a geological masterpiece shaped by the 100-mile Waterpocket Fold, boasting winding canyons, monoliths, and domes. The Fremont River meanders through, creating a lush valley inhabited since ancient times, adorned with Native American petroglyphs. The historic town of Fruita, aptly named for its fruit trees planted by Mormon settlers, offers a unique experience – visitors can pick fresh fruit in the fall! With plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives, you’ll be treated to breathtaking arches and formations.

Now, let’s talk about the journey to get there. If you’re coming from the east on Highway 24, continue to Torrey, then head south onto Highway 12 – an All American Road known as the “Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.” This 122-mile road is a visual feast, climbing through Dixie National Forest to heights of over 9500 feet. Prepare to be amazed as forests transition to red rocks, and then to the vast wilderness of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

The drive is an adventure in itself, with ever-changing landscapes and heart-stopping views along narrow ridges. The Grand Staircase, a sprawling wilderness of slot canyons and natural wonders, stretches over almost 2 million acres and encompasses diverse ecosystems. As you wind through the wilderness, keep an eye out for Red Canyon with its striking arches, before eventually reaching the end of the scenic road at Bryce Canyon.

Highway 12 may not be the quickest route between Capitol Reef and Bryce but trust me, it’s worth every mile for its jaw-dropping scenery and unforgettable vistas. So, who’s up for an epic road trip?