Kanab to Midway: Utah's Scenic Highway 89-40 Drive Guide

This route traces the eastern edge of the Great Basin, beginning at the Vermilion Cliffs at 4,970 ft (1,515 m) and climbing to the Wasatch Back at 6,800 ft (2,073 m). The drive spans 315 miles (507 km) and typically takes 5.5 hours without stops, but you’ll want to budget a full day. US-89 north from Kanab passes through the Paunsaugunt Plateau, where the road curves around the Pink Cliffs—a geological layer rich in iron oxide that gives the rock its hue. This isn’t just a corridor; it’s a transect of Utah’s geological history.

Total driving time: about 5.5 hours. But the real secret? The stretch of US-89 between Kanab and the junction with UT-12 near Hatch is one of the least-trafficked scenic byways in the state, with wide shoulders and long sight lines. For more tips on uncovering hidden gems, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The road surfaces are predominantly asphalt in good condition, with occasional chip-seal sections between Panguitch and Circleville. Cell service drops for about 50 miles between Glendale and Orderville; download offline maps before leaving Kanab. Gas is available every 30–40 miles along US-89, but prices spike in tourist towns. Plan to fill up in Kanab (Chevron at 300 S 100 E) and again in Panguitch or Richfield.

• Fuel stops: Kanab (several stations), Mount Carmel Junction (one station), Panguitch (three stations), Circleville (one), Junction (one), Marysvale (two), Elsinore (one), Richfield (multiple).
• Electric vehicle charging: Level 2 chargers at Kanab City Library; DC fast chargers in Richfield (Tesla Supercharger, EA). Midway has a few Level 2 units at the Heber Valley RV Park.
• Restrooms: Available at most gas stations, at Bryce Canyon National Park visitor center (free), and at rest areas near Elsinore (mile 157) and Strawberry Reservoir (mile 260).
• Food: Dining options cluster in Kanab, Panguitch, Richfield, and Heber City. Between Richfield and Heber City, the only sit-down restaurants are in Fruitland and Duchesne; otherwise rely on packed snacks.

From Kanab, the first 20 miles pass through the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, with vermilion and white cliffs to the east. At Mount Carmel Junction (mile 20), the road enters the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The geology transitions from layered sandstone to limestone as you approach Bryce Canyon National Park (mile 82). Beyond Bryce, US-89 sweeps through grassy valleys ringed by the Tushar Mountains, with volcanic peaks rising to 12,000 ft. Near Marysvale (mile 170), the landscape softens into piñon-juniper woodlands. After Richfield, the route climbs over the Wasatch Plateau, passing the Strawberry Reservoir—a blue jewel at 7,600 ft—before descending into Heber Valley.

• Natural attractions: Bryce Canyon (detour 3 mi off US-89), Red Canyon (mile 90, free scenic drive), Mammoth Cave (mile 160, lava tube), Big Rock Candy Mountain (mile 165, roadside attraction with candy shop), and Soldier Summit (mile 245, panoramic view of Strawberry Valley).
• Local commerce: In Kanab, buy Navajo fry bread at the Thunderbird Restaurant; in Panguitch, pick up homemade fudge at the Pie Lady Cafe; in Richfield, stop at the Dutchman's Market for local honey and jerky. Heber City has a thriving farmer’s market (Saturdays, June–October).
• Handicrafts: Paiute Indian Tribe (Shivwits Band) operates a small gift shop near Ivins (off route), but along US-89, watch for roadside stands selling turquoise jewelry and pottery near Markagunt Plateau.

The road is a mix of two-lane highway (US-89) and divided interstate (I-70, US-40). On US-89, speed limits range from 55 to 65 mph, with winding sections through the Sevier Valley. Watch for wildlife—deer and elk are common at dawn and dusk between miles 30 and 60, and again near Strawberry Reservoir. In winter (November–March), snow can close Soldier Summit; check UDOT road conditions before departing.

• Child suitability: Bryce Canyon National Park offers junior ranger programs (ages 4+) and paved trails. At Red Canyon, the half-mile hike to the hoodoos is easy for kids. Midway has the Heber Valley Railroad with a petting zoo and train rides.
• Pet-friendly stops: Most Bryce Canyon overlooks allow leashed pets on paved paths. The Midway City Park has a large off-leash area. Rest stops at Elsinore and Strawberry Reservoir have pet waste stations.
• Fatigue management: Plan a break every 2 hours. Safe rest zones include the Bryce Canyon visitor center (parking lot open 24/7, no facilities after hours), the Richfield city park (300 W Center St, clean restrooms), and the Strawberry Reservoir rest area (picnic tables, vault toilets).
• Hidden spots: Turn off at UT-12 east for 6 miles to see the Calf Creek Falls trailhead (a 6-mile round-trip hike to a 126-ft waterfall). Another gem: The historic Panguitch Lake (6.5 miles west of town) offers quiet fishing and a general store with homemade pies.