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Drive the Hogsback on Scenic Byway 12

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Navigate the thrilling ribbon of pavement dropped between two massive drop-offs, offering 360-degree views of the Grand Staircase-Escalante.

Itinerary tips

  • 1Allocate at least 30 minutes for this specific 6-mile stretch between Boulder and Escalante to account for slow speeds and photo stops.
  • 2Use the designated pull-offs on either end of the ridge rather than stopping on the narrow shoulder to ensure safety from passing traffic.
  • 3Ensure your fuel tank is at least half full before leaving Escalante or Boulder, as services are extremely limited along this remote corridor.
  • 4Keep your eyes on the road and let passengers handle the photography, as there are no guardrails and the drop-offs exceed 1,000 feet on both sides.
  • 5Pack a polarized lens for your camera to cut through the high-altitude haze and capture the deep reds and whites of the slickrock canyons below.
  • 6Check the local weather forecast for high wind warnings, as the exposed ridge can be difficult to navigate in high-profile vehicles during gusts.

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