Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 has been designated a National Scenic Byway and an All-American Road by the Federal Highway Administration. All-American Roads have one-of-a-kind features so exceptional that they qualify as a destination “unto themselves.” Only a few byways achieve the status of an All-American Road, making Scenic Byway 12 one of the most unique roads in the United States.

Spanning a route of more than 124 miles, Scenic Byway 12 travels through some of the most diverse and ruggedly beautiful landscapes in the country. It winds past slick-rock canyons, red rock cliffs, pine and aspen forests, alpine mountains, national parks, state parks, a national monument, and quaint rural towns. Numerous pull-outs located along the route provide opportunities to photograph, watch wildlife, or relax and enjoy the scenery.

Scenic Byway 12 travels through Utah's Garfield and Wayne Counties and is home to three national parks, three state parks, a national recreation area, and a national monument. Scenic Byway 12 has two entry points. The southwestern gateway is from U.S. Highway 89 (US 89), seven miles south of the city of Panguitch.  The northeastern gateway is from Highway 24 in the town of Torrey near Capitol Reef National Park. There are other back-ways from which you can access Scenic Byway 12 - click here to see a map.

Seen from any direction, this road and the surrounding region is absolutely breathtaking. We suggest that you base from one of the many communities near or along Byway 12, or take several days to move from point to point. However you choose to experience this area, you'll be wishing you had more time to see and experience it all.