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I start with Scenic Byway 12 because it really is the most remarkable stretch of all-American highway in southern Utah. But even this gorgeous three-hour drive begs the question: is it really any fun with kids? With four under the age of 8 my husband and I will join the rallying cry with an exuberant “Yes!”
How is it even possible? What is there in a three-hour drive that kids from 18 months to 8 years can even appreciate, especially since even in this technological era, our car does not have a DVD player? The answer is simple: from red rock tunnels through the Dixie National Forest to the Hog’s Back this is some of the most beautiful country of desert and sky, and we stop and stretch our legs and breathe it in. In a land as varied as this, there is a view and place for everyone.
Our kids were split on their favorite part of the drive. The youngest two loved the stops, from the many scenic overlooks to the rock shop we explored. It probably was as much to do with getting out of carseats as it was to do with another view of the world passing their windows. They stumbled about on short legs, hopping from boulder to boulder, picking in the dirt at treasures only they saw.
Our oldest two, much as they enjoyed the overlooks as well (everyone likes to stretch their legs, even adults), voted that their favorite part was the drive along the Hog’s Back. The road twists and rolls along the very pinnacle of a sandstone ridge barely wider than the narrow two-lane road itself. Whether they were enthralled with the views, as my husband and I were, or just thrilled at the feeling of balancing on the top of the world (which is, admittedly, exciting), either way it was the overall highlight of the drive.
Be ready for a long day. Highway 12 takes about three hours to reach from Provo, but then you are rewarded with three hours of the most remarkable combination of red rock canyons, cliffs, expansive views, and life clinging to the boundaries. The scenery is already there, waiting for you to enjoy and experience. So all you need is to gas up the car, stock up a cooler, bring some of your favorite driving music, and open the garage.
IF YOU GO:
Take Interstate 15 south to Highway 20, which is just south of Beaver. This leads to Highway 89. Turn south, pass through Panguitch, staying on Highway 89 to the junction with Highway 12.
Highway 12 circles around through Tropic, Cannonville, Escalante, Boulder and finally to Torrey, near Capitol Reef National Park. We did some shopping along the way, click here to read more. |
