Hanksville to Orderville: Utah's Scenic Highway 24 & 12 Drive

This route from Hanksville to Orderville traverses the Waterpocket Fold, one of Earth's great geological monoclines, revealing 100 million years of Earth's history in a single drive. The road itself, a combination of UT-24 and UT-12, climbs from desert flats to alpine forests over 130 miles.

Driving time is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes without stops, but plan a full day to absorb the scenery. The route is a nature lover's paradise, with access to Capitol Reef National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

The landscape varies from the badlands of the San Rafael Swell to the red rock cliffs of Capitol Reef, and finally the pine forests of Dixie National Forest. Along the way, you'll pass through the towns of Torrey, Boulder, and Escalante, each offering unique local flavor.

In Torrey, visit the Gifford Homestead for fresh pies and handmade crafts. Boulder is home to the Anasazi State Park Museum, showcasing ancient Puebloan culture. Escalante offers outfitters for guided hikes and a variety of dining options.

Capitol Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (part of the MAB network), known for its Waterpocket Fold and historic orchards. Grand Staircase-Escalante, also a UNESCO site, protects vast wilderness and paleontological sites. Both are must-see for their natural and cultural significance.

The local economy relies on tourism, with gift shops and cafes in each town. Try the local honey in Torrey or the fry bread at a roadside stand in Escalante. Remember, this is a small community, so support local businesses.

Both highways are well-paved, two-lane roads with occasional passing lanes. Snow can close the higher elevations of UT-12 in winter, but Hanksville and Orderville are usually accessible. The road is generally safe, but be cautious of deer and livestock.

• Fuel up in Hanksville; the next gas station is in Torrey, 45 miles away.
• Torrey also offers the last reliable cell service until Boulder.
• No gas stations exist between Boulder and Escalante, a stretch of 50 miles.
• Orderville has one gas station and a market.

Restrooms are available at national park visitor centers, picnic areas, and some stores. The route is suitable for RVs, but steep grades and switchbacks on UT-12 require careful driving. Weather can change rapidly; carry water and layers.

Driving this route is rewarding but can be tiring. Plan stops every hour or two. The route passes several scenic overlooks and short nature trails suitable for kids. Capitol Reef offers easy walks like the Goosenecks trail and a visitor center with interactive exhibits.

Grand Staircase-Escalante has the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center with kid-friendly exhibits. Both parks have picnic areas. The towns have playgrounds, and the drive itself offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Pets are allowed on leashes in both national parks, but not on trails or in buildings. Many restaurants have outdoor seating where pets are welcome. For lodging, many hotels are pet-friendly; check ahead.

For fatigue management, take advantage of the designated rest areas and scenic turnouts. The drive is scenic, but remember to pull over safely to enjoy it. If you need help planning stops, use how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.