North America

The Hogback, Utah

United States

In short: The Hogback, Utah is a 112 km scenic road trip in United States, typically driven over 1–2 days, best in May – October. Highlights: Torrey, Boulder Mountain, Boulder.

Distance

112 km

Duration

1–2 days

Best Season

May – October

IconicModerateScenic

Route 12 south from Torrey climbs to a 2,750 m pass through Dixie National Forest pine trees before reaching the narrow spine of The Hogback, a tarred road balanced on a razor ridge with near-vertical drops into canyon on both sides. One of the most dramatic stretches of road in America, ending in the frontier town of Escalante with Cowboy Blues' legendary local trout.

Practical notes

The Hogback section of Route 12 is a paved but extremely narrow ridge road with sheer drop-offs on both sides and no guardrails in places. Drivers with a fear of heights or those towing wide trailers should approach with caution, particularly in high winds or winter ice.

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Stops along the route

Departure

Torrey

A frontier outpost at 2,000 m on Capitol Reef's doorstep. Wide-sky views and the Rim Rock Inn unchanged since ranching days.

Hotels

Arrival

Escalante

Gateway to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, 7,700 sq km of slot canyons, arches, and mesas accessed only on foot.

Hotels

Things to Do

Boulder Mountain — Nature — The Hogback, Utah — United States

Nature
Boulder Mountain
Highway 12 crests at 2,750 m through dense ponderosa pine, with panoramas over Capitol Reef and the Henry Mountains.

The Hogback — Landmark — The Hogback, Utah — United States

Landmark
The Hogback
A single-lane ridge road with no barriers and sheer canyon drops on both sides. The plunge into Grand Staircase is vertiginous.

Anasazi State Park Museum — Museum — The Hogback, Utah — United States

Museum
Anasazi State Park Museum
Explore ancient Ancestral Puebloan artifacts and a replica village, delving into the region's rich history.

Calf Creek Falls — Hike — The Hogback, Utah — United States

Hike
Calf Creek Falls
A scenic 6-mile round-trip hike leading to a stunning 126-foot waterfall, surrounded by towering canyon walls.

Burr Trail Scenic Backway — Scenic Drive — The Hogback, Utah — United States

Scenic Drive
Burr Trail Scenic Backway
A picturesque drive through canyons and red rock formations, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

Where to Eat

Hell's Backbone Grill & Farm — Farm-to-Table — The Hogback, Utah — United States

Farm-to-Table
Hell's Backbone Grill & Farm
Offers organic, locally sourced dishes in a rustic setting, emphasizing sustainability and fresh flavors.

Burr Trail Grill — American — The Hogback, Utah — United States

American
Burr Trail Grill
Serves classic American fare with a Southwestern twist, featuring homemade pies and a cozy atmosphere.

Magnolia's Street Food — Street Food — The Hogback, Utah — United States

Street Food
Magnolia's Street Food
A food truck offering a variety of globally inspired dishes, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

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Frequently asked questions

How long is the The Hogback, Utah drive?

The The Hogback, Utah covers 112 km from start to finish.

How long does the The Hogback, Utah take to drive?

Most travellers spend 1–2 days on the The Hogback, Utah, depending on stops and pace.

When is the best time to drive the The Hogback, Utah?

The recommended season for the The Hogback, Utah is May – October.

Where does the The Hogback, Utah start and end?

The The Hogback, Utah runs from Torrey to Escalante.

What are the main stops on the The Hogback, Utah?

The The Hogback, Utah passes through Torrey, Boulder Mountain, Boulder.

Can I drive the The Hogback, Utah in a regular car?

Yes — the The Hogback, Utah is paved end-to-end and a regular car is fine in normal conditions.

Is the The Hogback, Utah safe to drive?

What scenic tier is the The Hogback, Utah?

The The Hogback, Utah is a iconic drive — Iconic road trips that anchor a region's reputation — postcard scenery, headline highways, and the routes most travellers want to drive.