Moab to Orderville: Red Rock Adventure on US-89 & UT-12

Did you know that US-89 between Moab and Orderville follows part of the historic Honeymoon Trail, a 1910s route used by Mormon couples to travel to the St. George Temple for weddings? Today, this drive is a journey through some of Utah's most dramatic red rock landscapes, passing through Capitol Reef National Park and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The total driving distance is about 195 miles, and without stops, it takes roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes. But the question is: is it worth driving Moab, UT to Orderville, UT? Absolutely, if you take the time to explore the natural wonders along the way.

This guide covers key keywords such as best stops Moab, UT to Orderville, UT, how long to drive Moab, UT to Orderville, UT, and things to do between Moab, UT and Orderville, UT. For more tips on finding hidden gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. Below is a quick overview of the route logistics.

Fuel and Route Economics

Gas stations are sparse along UT-24 and UT-12, especially between Hanksville and Boulder. Fill up in Moab (Arco or Chevron) before departure. Expect gas prices about $0.20/gallon higher in remote areas. A full tank from Moab to Orderville costs roughly $40-50. Consider carrying a spare gallon if driving an RV or towing.

• Moab: multiple stations, cheapest at Costco (membership required) or Maverik on Main St.
• Hanksville: one station (Hanksville Travel Plaza), hours 7am-10pm.
• Torrey: two stations, but limited hours in winter.
• Boulder: one station (Boulder Mountain Lodge), pricey but reliable.
• Orderville: stations on US-89 (Chevron and Sinclair), open until 9pm.

Road Quality and Safety

UT-24 and UT-12 are paved two-lane highways in good condition, but sections near Capitol Reef and Boulder Mountain have sharp curves and steep grades (10-12% incline). Watch for wildlife (deer, pronghorn) especially at dawn/dusk. Winter conditions (Nov-Mar) require 4WD or chains on passes. Summer heat (100°F+) can cause tires to blow; check pressure. Emergency services are limited; cell service is spotty west of Hanksville and on UT-12. Download offline maps before departure.

1. Speed limits: UT-24 65 mph, UT-12 50-65 mph, US-89 65 mph. Reduced in towns.
2. Rest areas: no official rest stops on UT-24 or UT-12; use scenic overlooks or pullouts.
3. Police presence: limited, but radar enforcement near Escalante and Orderville.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

While no UNESCO sites are directly on the route, Capitol Reef National Park is a candidate for the national park system's World Heritage tentative list. The nearby Zion National Park (54 miles south of Orderville) is a UNESCO site. The route also passes through the proposed Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which contains fossils and petrified forest remains of global significance.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality

The roads are generally well-maintained, but remote sections lack lighting and barriers. On UT-12's Hogback, pull over at designated viewpoints to avoid blocking traffic. In summer, tire blowouts are common due to heat; check tire tread and pressure. Carry a spare, jack, and basic tools. Dehydration is a risk; drink at least one bottle of water per hour of driving. Emergency call boxes are only available on US-89 near Orderville.

• Cell service: AT&T covers Moab and Orderville; Verizon works near Torrey. No service on most of UT-12.
• Nearby hospitals: Moab Regional Hospital (Moab), Garfield Memorial Hospital (Panguitch, 30 mi west of Orderville).
• Towing services: Available in Moab (24hr) and Escalante (daytime).

Family and Child Suitability

This route is excellent for families, with many short, kid-friendly hikes and interactive sites. Goblin Valley allows children to climb the hoodoos. Capitol Reef's Fruita area offers easy walks through orchards (pick fruit in season). Calf Creek Falls is a moderate hike but worth it for swimming. Visit the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park for dinosaur fossils. Most stops have pit toilets and picnic tables. Stroller accessibility is limited on trails; use carriers.

1. Recommended for ages 5+: Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef scenic drive, Anasazi Museum.
2. Recommended for ages 10+: Calf Creek Falls, Kodachrome Basin, UT-12 viewpoints.
3. Restrooms: at every gas station, visitor center, and state/national park entrance.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most outdoor areas allow pets on leashes (6-ft maximum). National parks: Capitol Reef permits pets on roads and in campgrounds, but not on trails. State parks: Goblin Valley and Kodachrome Basin allow pets on trails. Leave no trace; carry waste bags. In summer, avoid walking dogs on hot asphalt or trails at midday. Many motels in Moab and Orderville (e.g., La Quinta, Rodeway Inn) are pet-friendly with fees ($20-40). Water bowls are scarce; carry a collapsible bowl.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

For those seeking solitude, detour to the Bentonite Hills near Caineville (UT-24 milepost 40): colorful clay mounds accessible via a short dirt road. Between Escalante and Boulder, follow the Burr Trail (graded gravel) into the Waterpocket Fold for stunning views. Near Orderville, explore the unmarked Willis Creek slot canyon (requires high clearance). Always check weather conditions; flash floods are a risk in slot canyons.

• Bentonite Hills: 38.3681°N, 110.9865°W; 2WD accessible in dry.
• Burr Trail: start at UT-12 near Boulder; 40-mile round trip to Capitol Reef's east side.
• Willis Creek: trailhead on Johnson Canyon Road (US-89 milepost 56); 4WD recommended.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Long stretches of monotonous desert driving can cause fatigue. Plan a break every 2 hours or 100 miles. Ideal rest spots include:

• Hanksville: BLM-operated turnout with shade and restrooms (not always open).
• Capitol Reef Visitor Center (Torrey): water, restrooms, picnic tables.
• Escalante Interagency Visitor Center: restrooms, coffee, AC.
• Kodachrome Basin State Park: picnic area with tables under shade.

Stretch legs with short walks: 10-minute walks at Goosenecks Overlook (UT-24) or Larb Hollow Overlook (UT-12). Avoid driving between 1pm-3pm when post-lunch lethargy peaks. Share driving if possible.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions

The drive offers unparalleled diversity: from the red rock canyons of Moab to the white domes of Capitol Reef, and the slickrock of the Grand Staircase. Key stops include:

• Goblin Valley State Park (off UT-24, 10 mi detour): thousands of hoodoos resembling goblins. Entry $20 per vehicle.
• Capitol Reef National Park (UT-24): free scenic drive through Fruita historic district, orchards, and petroglyphs. Stop at the visitor center for water.
• UT-12 Scenic Byway: designated an All-American Road, with viewpoints like the Hogback (narrow ridge with sheer drops).
• Grand Staircase-Escalante: access to hiking trails like Calf Creek Falls (6 mi round trip, moderate) and Hole-in-the-Rock Road (4WD recommended).
• Kodachrome Basin State Park (off US-89): colorful sandstone spires, entry $10 per vehicle.

Local Commerce & Culture

Small towns along the route offer artisan goods and local flavors. In Torrey, visit the Capitol Reef Country Museum or the Diabolical Pork BBQ food truck. Boulder is home to the historic Boulder Mountain Lodge and the Anasazi State Park Museum (exhibits on Ancestral Puebloans). In Orderville, the Frontier Movie Town showcases Western memorabilia. Buy local honey or Navajo rugs at roadside stands between Escalante and Orderville.

• Torrey: Gifford Homestead (seasonal) for fresh fruit pies.
• Escalante: Escalante Outfitters for gear and books.
• Orderville: Orderville Mercantile for souvenirs and snacks.

Culinary Infrastructure

Dining options are limited to cafes and diners. In Hanksville, the Blondie's Diner serves burgers and shakes. In Torrey, the Capitol Reef Inn & Cafe offers farm-to-table cuisine. Boulder has Hell's Backbone Grill (organic, acclaimed). For a quick bite, Escalante's the Escalante Coffee Company (coffee and pastries). Orderville's Conoco gas station sells surprisingly good Navajo tacos. Pack snacks and water as meals can be 30-50 miles apart.

Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics

Best weather is April-May and September-October: 60-80°F, clear skies. Summer (June-Aug): 90-105°F, intense sun, thunderstorms possible. Winter (Dec-Feb): 20-40°F, snow on UT-12 passes, stunning white-on-red landscape. Spring brings wildflowers in Capitol Reef. The hours of daylight vary: 9.5 hours in winter, 14.5 in summer. Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photography on the red rocks.